by Isaiah Hinsley
On Thursday, November 12, the University of West Georgia College of Education’s Sport Management Program hosted another successful Sports Career Expo. Throughout the expo, professionals shared their experience in administration, communications, event operations, marketing, parks and recreation, sales, and much more.
“The Sports Expo is an annual event we do in the Sport Management Program sponsored by the Sport Management Society,” said Dr. Markesha Henderson, assistant professor and program coordinator of sports management. “The purpose is to invite sports professionals to Carrollton to share insight or information on how they can achieve careers in sports management.”
The guest speakers this year featured Vince Thompson, Sam Crenshaw, Jennifer Holman, Lauren Rupert, Russell Clark, and Aaron Sones. The expo kicked off with an opening session that included a keynote from Vince, the founder and CEO of MELT, LLC one of top sports and entertainment agencies in the country.
The workshop sessions allowed students to explore different career opportunities in sports. The first workshop included a virtual chat with UWG alum Jennifer Holman. Jennifer is the sales manager for SunTrust Park. She plays a huge role with the Atlanta Braves ticket sales, sponsorships, and is currently facilitating the establishment of their new stadium.
Following the first workshop was the Communication is Key: Sports Information in the 21st Century Lunch and Learn panel. The panel discussion featured Russell Clark, Sam Crenshaw, Lauren Rupert, and Aaron Sones. The panelists gave valuable career advice and allowed students to ask questions about a successful career path.
Russell Clark is the managing director of the LNL Agency. UWG alum Sam Crenshaw is an, award-winning journalist, and the Weekend Morning Host on CBS Atlanta’s 92.9 the Game. Lauren Rupert is the assistant director of communications and public relations for Georgia Tech Athletics. Aaron Sones is the external affairs coordinator and sports information director at the West Georgia Technical College.
Following the discussion was a question and answer session for the students. In addition, the panelist hosted another workshop and held mock interview for the students to conclude the event. The event was opened to all student interested in careers involving sports management or other related fields. NFL Player Engagement and Why Not Sports, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to enlightening students on the array of careers in the sport industry, co-sponsored the event.
For more information about UWG’s sport management program, visit www.westga.edu/coelai/1598_1605.php.
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