Fresno, California — Fresno State’s dynamic wide receiver Mac Dalena has taken a significant leap off the gridiron and into the skies with a breakthrough Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreement that’s gaining national attention. Dalena has inked a milestone endorsement agreement with ENG Aviation, a fast growing leader in aircraft services, to be the face of their campaign encouraging organ donation awareness.
This isn’t just another NIL agreement loaded with bonuses and appearances. It’s a meaningful, mission-driven cooperation that aspires to motivate people and save lives.
“Mac Dalena represents everything ENG Aviation stands for — precision, speed, and most importantly, heart,” said ENG Aviation CEO Kendra Ellis during a news conference at Fresno Yosemite International Airport. “We couldn’t think of a better ambassador to take our organ donation advocacy campaign to new heights.”
The campaign, dubbed “Lift to Live: The Gift of Flight, The Gift of Life,” will showcase Dalena on aircraft tail decals, in-flight safety content, and social media marketing throughout California and the western United States. The project comprises a number of high-profile events, such as school visits, blood drives, and stadium flyovers, all of which aim to raise awareness of the critical need for organ donors.
For Dalena, the partnership is extremely personal.
“I’ve had friends and teammates whose lives have been impacted by the generosity of donors,” Dalena told me. “For me, this is more than just a sponsorship. It’s a platform to raise awareness and maybe drive others to become donors themselves. If we can save even one life with this message, that’s a touchdown bigger than any I’ll ever score on the field.”
The senior wideout has built a name for himself in college with his outstanding route running, big catches, and overall versatility. However, this transaction emphasizes a different type of value: his character, compassion, and dedication to something greater than the game.
Bulldogs head coach Jeff Tedford welcomed the move, calling it “a perfect reflection of what we preach in this program—using your platform to make a positive difference.”
“This is why we support NIL,” Tedford explained. “When our athletes can make moves that not only benefit them but also give back to the community, it’s a win for everyone.”
Dalena’s cooperation with ENG Aviation also involves scholarship grants to medical students studying transplant medicine, as well as pilot training scholarships for students from marginalized groups. It’s a multifaceted initiative that combines education, aviation, athletics, and healthcare advocacy.
Dalena’s image will soon appear on planes, posters, and university walls across California, sending a clear message: collegiate athletes have more ability than ever to change the world beyond their sport. And Mac Dalena is out front of the curve, transforming celebrity into flight and purpose into advancement.
In an era when NIL deals are frequently focused on financial gain, Mac Dalena demonstrates that the greatest rewards come from giving back.