Event Management with Ball State

While at Ball State, I was fortunate enough to get an opportunity to work alongside 3 graduate assistants who had been in the same undergrad program as me. The Event Staff position was minimal, requiring staff to stand between bleachers and stadium entrances to essentially 'police' spectators. It is an important part of ensuring a safe and fun environment, but does not yield much beneficial experience for a young, eager Sport Management major as described to me by these graduate assistants. I was immediately taken under their wings and gained incredible, beneficial experience in event management, sponsorship activations, and NCAA Division I athletics.

A few of the projects I got to work on:
Air Jam: Ball State's annual lip syncing contest. Arguably the biggest on-campus event every year.

Dance Marathon: Many universities participate, but the state of Indiana seems to have a stronghold on raising the most money as Ball State, Indiana University, and Purdue are consistently in the top 10 for most money raised for Riley's Children Hospital

Shrek the Musical: An instant classic, what more can I say? The actor for Shrek was actually a Ball State graduate, so the visit to our university was a sort of homecoming for him and we pulled out all the stops.

Homecoming Bed Races: Exactly what you think it is. Imagine your pinewood derby, but with beds. This was the biggest event during homecoming week every year, and I was thrilled to be a part of them team that put it together.

Athletics In-Game Activations: Working with local banks, restaurants, businesses, and more. Our event team was responsible for finding participants and activating in-game promotions that these sponsors paid the naming rights for. Kick-for-cash presented by Amazing Joe's Grill at football games, half court shots sponsored by the local Subway for basketball games, and more.

Commencement: We got to help with each Spring, Summer, and Winter commencement itinerary. Escorting and conversating with speakers such as Papa John (prior to his self-destruction scandal) was a really unique experience that I think most students can't say they were able to have.