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Eric Bartel graduated in 2004 with degrees in finance and insurance and risk management.  

“I chose to double major in finance and risk management because I thought I wanted to be a sports agent,” he said. “I wanted to learn how to make money and manage risk.”

With a passion for sports, Eric found �鶹������ý Lafayette to be the best choice.

“I chose �鶹������ý Lafayette because I always wanted to play Division 1 college football where my dad coached,” he said. “He was hired at USL (which is now �鶹������ý Lafayette) in the spring of 1999 – I started college that fall.”

Eric’s focus on football didn’t keep him from engaging in other aspects of campus life.

“I played football at �鶹������ý Lafayette, served as College of Business President in Student Government Association, and I enjoyed working on the ,” he said. “Being a part of those teams created many friendships and opened my eyes to so much diversity.”

“�鶹������ý Lafayette is a wonderful university in a wonderful town where I made a bunch of wonderful memories,” he said. “There’s nothing in the world like a Ragin’ Cajun, and I’m proud to be one.”

After his time at �鶹������ý Lafayette, Eric earned his master’s degree in sports business and finance. While still in school, he interned with the Houston Texans, the New York Jets, and an NFL sports agent. After graduating, his plans changed a little. 

“I decided the better career fit for me and my family long term was in financial planning,” he said. “I started my career as a captive agent at AXA Advisors then went independent after one year.”

Eric now spends his time between his financial planning firm, coaching his kids’ sports teams, and taking care of his family. Eric’s daughter, Annabelle Grace, was diagnosed with bone cancer in December, but with the help of her family, friends, and community, she is staying .  

Even though 2020 was a challenging year, Eric’s plan is “to serve well, continue to lead well, and see the good through the bad.”