Seventh in The Courier's 20 Under 40 series.

CEDAR FALLS -- Growing up in central Iowa, Eric Braley couldn't wait to leave the state.

After earning his broadcasting degree from the University of Northern Iowa, the Waterloo man, now 27, planned to follow his career without a backward glance.

"I was the definitely the kid who said: 'East Coast, West Coast, anywhere but Iowa," said Braley. "But I came to UNI, got my graduate and undergraduate degrees, and just fell in love with the Cedar Valley and everything it has to offer."

So after finishing his education, Braley founded the Cedar Falls-based Around The Corner Productions with fellow UNI grad Michael Rueber. The company creates TV shows, commercials and other promotional materials for area organizations, including John Deere, the United Way and Lincoln Savings Bank.

In addition, the business produces "Panther Sports Talk," which airs at 10:30 p.m. Sundays on KWWL. The program features updates on athletes from the school's 18 Division I programs.

"I truly believe that every individual has a story to tell," said Braley, who started the show while still a student at UNI. "They devote so much time and energy into representing the university and the Cedar Valley that they deserve to be put in the spotlight."

In addition to his work at ATC Productions, Braley keeps busy as an adjunct communications faculty instructor at UNI and a play-by-play announcer for the university's Sports Radio Network.

The sportscaster's efforts have helped build support for Panther athletics, said Bobbi Petersen, the university's volleyball coach.

"We want the community to be involved in what we do, and Eric helps with that," she said. "He brings his excitement and enthusiasm to the community."

And although Braley is on the sidelines at almost every home UNI athletic game, meet or match, the Cedar Valley man still makes time for community and church service projects.

"He's grown up with a social conscience, so he's very aware of what's going on in the community and the needs of the less fortunate," said Julie Rokes, a Dike teacher who nominated Braley for The Courier's 20 Under 40 award. "He's focused on his career, but he's also focused on helping others."

For his part, Braley plans to continue his efforts to make the Cedar Valley a better place to live.

"I think we (at ATC Productions) serve the community with our coverage of UNI athletics, but I've always wanted to do more than just that," Braley said. "I acknowledge the fact that I am fortunate. Ten years from now, I hope to have a longer list of volunteer experiences."

Contact Mary Stegmeir at (319) 291-1482 or mary.stegmeir@wcfcourier.com.