Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, the 22-year-old gymnast and social media sensation, has officially graduated from Louisiana State University (LSU) with a degree in interdisciplinary studies.
She shared this milestone with her extensive online following, posting celebratory photos in her purple cap and gown on Instagram and TikTok.
In one Instagram post, Dunne posed proudly with her diploma outside Tiger Stadium, exuding joy and accomplishment.
Another photo captured the moment she received her diploma on stage during the commencement ceremony.
She captioned the series with “Forever LSU,” reflecting her deep connection to the university.
Despite completing her undergraduate studies, Dunne is not stepping away from the gymnastics arena just yet.
She has announced her return to LSU for a fifth and final year of athletic eligibility, aiming to defend the team’s national championship title in the upcoming season.
In a heartfelt message, she expressed, “These past four years have changed my life… And no matter how many opportunities come my way off the mat, there’s just something about LSU. And that’s why I’m here to say, ‘I’m not Dunne yet.'”
Beyond her athletic endeavors, Dunne has made significant strides in the realm of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.
Since the NCAA’s policy change in 2021, she has become the highest-paid female college athlete, amassing an estimated $9.5 million through various endorsements and partnerships.
Her substantial social media presence, with over 10 million followers across platforms, has been instrumental in this success.
Dunne is passionate about empowering fellow female athletes to navigate the complexities of NIL opportunities.
She emphasizes the importance of capitalizing on these deals during college, noting the limited professional avenues available in women’s sports post-graduation.
To facilitate this, she established the Livvy Fund at LSU, aiming to connect female athletes with branding opportunities and provide guidance in the evolving NIL landscape.
Looking ahead, Dunne has expressed intentions to continue her education in graduate school. While she has not specified her field of study, her commitment to personal growth and education remains evident.
Additionally, she plans to expand her brand beyond gymnastics, exploring opportunities in modeling and media. Her recent collaboration with Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit issue is a testament to her versatility and ambition.
Dunne’s journey from a young gymnast in Hillsdale, New Jersey, to a nationally recognized athlete and influencer is a remarkable narrative of dedication, resilience, and strategic acumen.
Her ability to balance the rigorous demands of collegiate athletics, academics, and a burgeoning business portfolio serves as an inspiration to many.
As she prepares for her final season with the LSU Tigers, Dunne’s focus remains on contributing to her team’s success and leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the mat.
Her story underscores the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics, where athletes are not only competitors but also influential figures with the power to effect change and inspire future generations.
In her own words, Dunne reflects on her journey: “I feel like [Sports Illustrated] is something that can last beyond college.
I think that’s important, creating a substantial brand that will last post-college.” This forward-thinking mindset highlights her dedication to building a sustainable and impactful career beyond her athletic achievements.
As Olivia Dunne embarks on this new chapter, her blend of athletic prowess, academic achievement, and entrepreneurial spirit positions her as a trailblazer in the world of collegiate sports and beyond.