The Texas Tech University Department of Communication Studies is hosting "An Evening with Baron Batch" from 5-7 p.m. Thursday (Oct. 29) in Room 359 of the College of Media & Communication Building.

The event will feature a visit from Baron Batch, an alumnus of the college and former running back for the Texas Tech football team who has become an artist and entrepreneur.

After playing football for Texas Tech, Batch earned a bachelor's degree in communication studies in 2010 and went on to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He retired from football in 2013 and has since pursued a career as an entrepreneur with Angry Man Salsa and as an artist with the advertising agency Studio AM.

Brian Ott, chairman of the Department of Communication Studies, described Batch's experience as the perfect example of the many opportunities available to students.

"Baron Batch embodies the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of our majors," Ott said. "He's a perfect example of the endless possibilities open to students with a degree in communication studies."

In addition to a meet and greet with Batch, the event will give guests an opportunity to network with current professors and students and to find out more about the Department of Communication Studies. The event will feature free food and is open to the public.