BARDSTOWN, Ky. – August 19, 2025 — Evan Williams Bourbon announces a major expansion of its Bourbon Nation campaign, adding three new collegiate partners and introducing Molly McGrath, ESPN sideline reporter, as the official Brand Ambassador. The University of Oregon, University of South Carolina, and University of Oklahoma join the growing roster of schools just in time for the 2025 college football season.
New Schools Join the Bourbon Nation Lineup
Launched in 2024, Bourbon Nation is Evan Williams’ multi-year partnership with Learfield, designed to unite college sports fans through game day traditions and responsible bourbon enjoyment. With the latest additions, Evan Williams now partners with eight iconic programs:
- University of Oregon
- University of South Carolina
- University of Oklahoma
- University of Florida
- Syracuse University
- TCU
- The Ohio State University
- University of Alabama
Molly McGrath Named Brand Ambassador
“From pre-game rituals to post-win celebrations, Evan Williams is the Bourbon that resonates with college sports fans and alumni,” said Molly McGrath, Brand Ambassador for Evan Williams. “As someone who lives and breathes college sports, I’m thrilled to bring that same passion to a brand that’s all about celebrating tradition, connection, and team spirit.”
McGrath joined ESPN in 2016 and has covered college football, basketball, and the XFL. Her credibility and energy make her a natural fit to represent Evan Williams Bourbon Nation.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Molly as the new voice of Evan Williams Bourbon Nation,” said Max Stefka, Associate Vice President at Evan Williams.
Game Day Activation and Fan Engagement
The Bourbon Nation campaign will feature:
- In-stadium signage
- Branded bar experiences
- Dynamic tailgate events
- Custom cocktails and fan promos
- Social media activations
- In-store and on-premise promotions
- Regional media integrations
These activations will run throughout the 2025 football and basketball seasons.
“By expanding the Evan Williams Bourbon Nation platform and aligning with talent like Molly McGrath, we’re not just showing up for game day—we’re becoming part of how fans celebrate,” said Bill Hirsh, Senior Vice President of Corporate Sales at Learfield.
About Evan Williams Bourbon
Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, Evan Williams is the second-largest selling Bourbon in the world. Founded in 1783, the brand honors American heroes through its American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund and offers an immersive experience at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Louisville, KY.
Learn more at EvanWilliams.com
About Learfield
Learfield is the leading media and technology company in college athletics, partnering with over 1,200 institutions and 12,000 brands. Learfield powers fan engagement through merchandise, ticketing, NIL solutions, and digital platforms.
Listen to Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast app or stream on Spotify. If you’d like to support Bourbon Lens, join our Patreon, sign up for our “Weekly Pour” Newsletter, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Recent Bourbon Lens Coverage
- Rebel Bourbon & NASCAR’s Richard Childress Racing Extend Partnership for 2026
- Bardstown Bourbon Company Launches Bold Packaging Redesign Across Core Portfolio
- New Riff Balboa Rye Review: A Creamy, Fruity Rye to Watch in 2026
- Exploring the World of Whiskey and Bourbon on Bourbon Lens’ “Thursday Thoughts”
- Maker’s Mark Unveils New Premium Bottle and Age Statement for Cask Strength Bourbon
- 366: From r/bourbon to Middleburg Barrel Company with Jay West (T8ke)
