Our Sport Management students in SM 221 (Facility Management and Event Execution) are making significant strides in building a vibrant campus community while honing critical skills for their future business and sport management careers. These dedicated students are tasked with designing and executing engaging events this semester, providing them with invaluable hands-on experience for their professional development.
Sarah Andreano, a student in the course, said, “I love that the SM 221 project helps us learn more about what is needed in our future careers while getting the Neumann community involved. The events our class is creating really bring the community together!”
The event project is divided into three crucial phases. In the first phase, students submit a written event proposal, including a feasibility study. The second phase requires students to provide written proof of all necessary approvals from relevant departments, clubs, and personnel, ensuring that all logistical and university policy considerations are addressed. The final phase includes an individual written report and a group presentation, where students outline the entire process, from conceptualization to execution, and provide insights and suggestions for future events.
Dr. Julie Lanzillo, the Sport Management and Sport Business program director and faculty member for the course, emphasizes the project’s dual benefits: “The project is designed to effectively allow students to get their hands dirty developing an event concept, thinking through the stakeholders and target audience, and then marketing, planning, and executing the event. One of the largest benefits is that it annually creates an assortment of student-focused campus events with a strong student investment in their success, all while learning something.”
This year, the creativity and hard work of our students have led to a variety of exciting events, including a 3v3 Halloween Beach Volleyball Tournament, a Monday Night Football watch experience, a Basketball pre-game Cornhole tournament, and many more. These events provide entertainment and engagement for the student body and allow our Sport Management 221 students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios, preparing them for successful careers in the sports industry.
“Our event was a fantastic opportunity to connect with students on campus. The Sport Management major is one of the closest-knit groups on campus. All of us worked together throughout the process of preparing for the event. Everyone in the major WANTS to support each other, and through these events, we get to share what we are learning with other students,” said Michael Neumann, a student in SM 221.
Written by Dr. Sarah Williamson
Sarah Williamson is Dean of Students & Title IX Co-Coordinator.