Meet the Class - Liz

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Elizabeth Schulz

Hometown: Little Falls, MN

Undergraduate School & Major: Concordia College – Moorhead, MN. Economics-Finance

Past Sports Industry Experiences: Internships with the Fargo Force (a Junior A, Tier I hockey team out of Fargo, ND) and the Alexandria Blizzard (a Junior A, Tier II hockey team out of Alexandria, MN).

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: G.A. position with The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sports.

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: The option for a dual degree, the community service aspect, and the opportunity to live in a different part of the country.

Future Career Ambitions: To work with college athletics.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why? Be able to teleport so I would be able to see my family and friends in Minnesota more often.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know? John Wooden. I’d want to talk to him about everything; basketball, faith, leadership, the pyramid of success, and learn more about him as a person.

Meet the Class - Kristian

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.


Name: Kristian Vazquez

Hometown: Bayamon, Puerto Rico

Undergraduate School & Major: Political Science - University of Puerto Rico

Past Sports Industry Experiences: Amateur soccer website

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: TIDES Graduate Assistant

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: The service focus of the program

Future Career Ambitions: GM of a professional soccer team and later on working with international soccer NGOs.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why? Mind reading

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know? Winston Churchill, and I would most like to know what was his source of strength during the darkest days of WWII.

Meet the Class - Patty

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Patricia Flaherty

Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Undergraduate School & Major: University of Florida - Finance

Past Sports Industry Experiences: I volunteered for 3 semesters with the University of Florida UAA Compliance department and completed a Practicum with Gator Boosters, Inc.

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: Graduate Assistant, UCF Finance Department

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: I chose the DeVos program not only because it incorporates practical knowledge of a specific industry with what I have already studied in my undergraduate career, but it also provides numerous community service opportunities in the Orlando area as well as in New Orleans, LA.

Future Career Ambitions: I hope to pursue a career in the Action Sports industry and my ultimate goal would be to plan a major event such as the AST Dew Tour or the Vans Warped Tour.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why? I would definitely choose teleportation because I love visiting different places but hate driving and flying.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know?
I would interview Kevin Lyman, the producer and creator of the Vans Warped Tour, the longest running music and action sports tour in North America. I would ask him where exactly he sees Warped Tour going in the future, and if he sees himself incorporating more or less action sports into the festival in the coming years.

Meet the Class - Simone

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Simone Jackson

Hometown: Dallas, Texas

Undergraduate School & Major: The University of Texas at Dallas; BS & MS in Accounting and Information Management

Past Sports Industry Experiences: National Basketball Association NBA All-Star Jam Session Volunteer, Mountain View Community College Basketball Camp Director, Skyhawks Basketball Camp Director, DiversityInPromotions, LLC Marketing and Sales Intern, Dallas Basketball Officials Association Official, Dallas Fury of The National Women's Basketball League Support Group member, Women’s Pro-Am Semi-Professional Basketball Player

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport (TIDES) and Orlando Magic Interactive Marketing team member

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: I want to be a part of a program that shares the same values and vision that I do. The DeVos program focuses the necessary attention on social issues, diversity and ethics while highlighting the link between these factors and the sports industry. The education and experience received will provide me with the playbook to further advance my dream.

Future Career Ambitions: I want to create a program where student-athletes and non student-athletes can take sports skills and lessons that they have learned and transfer them in to every aspect of their lives. My dream for this program is to be able to show people how sports and business relate to every aspect of their life, while simultaneously, enhancing all aspects of their life.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why? I would choose not to have a superpower. I believe that we are given all the power that we need in order to fulfill our purpose here in this world. We already have the power we just need to know how to access it.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know? I would want to meet my great grandmothers and have the opportunity to just sit at their feet and absorb as much as you can.

Meet the Class - Amanda

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Amanda Barton

Hometown: Gray, Maine

Undergraduate School & Major: University of Southern Maine, Major: Business Administration, Minor: Accounting
Past Sports Industry Experiences:
Maine Red Claws Intern in Corporate Partnerships and Operations
Portland Pirates Intern in Communications and Public Relations
Oxford Plains Speedway Intern in Operations and Web 2.0 Marketing

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: N/A (Currently looking for either or both ☺).

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: I chose the DeVos program because it gave me the opportunity to earn a dual degree in business administration and in sports business management. The DeVos program has also allowed me to experience levels of diversity I otherwise wouldn’t been able to in the state of Maine.

Future Career Ambitions: I would like to see myself working for the Olympic Committee.
If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why? Teleportation! That way I could see the world in the most efficient and least expensive way!

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know? Reba McEntire; how it was for her growing up as a red head?

Meet the Class - Chris M.

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Chris Moran

Hometown: Tustin, California

Undergraduate School & Major: University of Arizona, Accounting

Past Sports Industry Experiences: Colorado Rockies Spring Training Staff Member (3 years), Tucson Toros Promotions Intern, ESPN Production Crew Intern.
Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: Dr. Harrison GA

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: The opportunities, the fact that sport is seen as a tool for social change, and the dual degree option.

Future Career Ambitions: To be the Director of Fan Experience for a professional sports team.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why? Telekinesis.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know? Donald Trump.

Meet the Class - Anna

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.


Name: Anna Florzak

Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri

Undergraduate School & Major: Iowa State University Major: Marketing & Minor: Textiles and Clothing

Past Sports Industry Experiences: Iowa State University Basketball 2006-2010, Iowa State University Cross Country 2009,
Marketing Intern Kansas City Chiefs 2009, Special Events Athletic Intern Iowa State University 2009-2010

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: Graduate Assistant, The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport
Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: When I first read about the DeVos Program, it was difficult to believe that such a program existed. My head told me it might just be a tremendous job of internal marketing; my heart wanted to believe such a program really existed. When I had the opportunity to interview last spring between the 1st and 2nd round of the NCAA tournament, I had the opportunity to experience not only the authenticity of the program but also experience the incredible leadership that makes it that way. I will never forget how much joy I felt after my interview, and I prayed that becoming part of the DeVos family was in God’s plan for me.

Future Career Ambitions: I have two ambitions: to be an Athletic Director at a Division 1 school and to write a book on my experiences as an athlete.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why? I would want the power to look into the future to see where the journey of my life will take me.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know? I would interview Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, a champion of human rights. Everything she ever said and everything she ever did was worth understanding and remembering. I would ask her where she got her energy, passion, and stamina to always do the right thing for the right reason. I would also ask her what she thought about at night right before she went to sleep.

Meet the Class - Kelvin

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Kelvin Ang

Hometown: Singapore
Undergraduate School & Major: Syracuse University, Newspaper Journalism and Geography

Past Sports Industry Experiences: I worked for two and a half years, first as a Sportswriter and then as the Sports Editor, of the Idaho State Journal, a daily newspaper in Pocatello, Idaho. I have also interned at the newspapers in Syracuse, N.Y., and Altoona, Pa., and for MLB.com covering the Milwaukee Brewers.

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: Graduate Assistant for Dr. Lapchick

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: I was impressed by how tight-knit the DeVos community felt when I interviewed with the students and directors. The program also stood out because of other components such as its service trips to New Orleans.

Future Career Ambitions: I am still exploring various job possibilities in the sports field. I would be interested in working on a team’s publications, or perhaps in the operations or compliance fields.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why? The ability to read anyone’s mind.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know? I would choose baseball legend Hank Aaron, whom I have always admired. I would love to hear how he managed to maintain a positive outlook on life and stay consistent on the field even while suffering from death threats and racist vitriol during his pursuit of Babe Ruth’s home run record.

Renewing New Orleans, Renewing our souls

"Everybody wants to be a part of a miracle. People helping people, it's powerful stuff"
~ Vince Vaughn, Wedding Crashers

When my alarm went off at 6:20 yesterday morning it could only mean one thing was upon me - the start of my final semester at the University of Central Florida. I could not believe that school was already here and starting. I could not believe that this was the beginning of the end of my DeVos journey. More than anything, I could not believe I had to get out of bed - because last week was absolutely exhausting.

As has been a tradition of the DeVos program these past four years, the class of 2011 and 2012 took a service trip to New Orleans with the Hope For Stanley Alliance. It is always a great experience to get to know the new members of the DeVos family and to give back to the city of New Orleans - a city that continues to go through so much but the resilience and optimism of her people never ceases to amaze me. Overall it was an incredible trip and I hope to have pictures to share with you all soon. I have now spent five weeks in service to the city of New Orleans and this trip was clearly the best one that I have gone on - it is amazing that no matter how many times I go, my life is always changed and I am always made better for it.

Those who know me, know that I am one to talk but I also acknowledge that sometimes, someone else can say it a lot better than me so instead I choose to keep my part short and instead share with you the thoughts of some of the members of our new class who went on this trip for the very first time.

Until next week,
Devan



Traveling to New Orleans with the DeVos Program this past week was my first time witnessing the aftermath from Hurricane Katrina. Touring the Lower Ninth Ward, where the levees broke, was an eye opening experience that filled me with many emotions. I cannot even fathom how the Lower Ninth Ward looked right after the flood if this is how the area looks five years later. Streets that were once packed with houses are now empty lots covered in overgrown weeds or abandoned houses. I had no idea of the amount of work that needs to be done and all the families that are still trying to come home. I am so glad to be a part of Hope for Stanley and to have the opportunity to restore homes. The residents that have been fortunate enough to come back to the Lower Ninth Ward are highly appreciative of volunteers. The residents have shown us how much our work means to the community in order to help residents regain their lives. I will be taking many trips back to New Orleans in the future. It is an amazing way to give back and help families come home to New Orleans, the only home they ever known, so they can rebuild friendships, families, and neighborhoods.
~Kaley Pendley, Class of 2012

"Initially I didn't know what to expect but speaking from my past experience I would like to say I truly loved it. I went to New Orleans in 2007 during my undergraduate years at Howard University to do rebuilding for Alternative Spring Break, a similar effort to Hope For Stanley. Seeing the damage that has yet to be cleaned up/rebuilt/fixed was quite upsetting. It had been 3 years since I had gone to visit and only certain areas looked like they were being helped. Hearing the stories of the natives, especially Stanley's story, reassured me and (I'm sure) my classmates as to why we continue to lend a helping hand to those less fortunate; especially those in New Orleans. I think the idea to take a trip down there before starting classes was a great way to ensure bonding between both classes. The experience set the tone for the next 18 months and what a great tone it was."
~ Kara Adams, Class of 2012

"I did not fully understand the true meaning of the saying ‘Restore, Rebuild & Renew’ until my first trip to NOLA ended this past Friday. Not only was it an emotional 5 days, but my eyes were also opened to a part of the country that I had never been to. I feel so blessed to be able to give back to a community that is so thankful for all of the work the DeVos family has continued to do over the years. With the 5 year anniversary happening this weekend, I hope that people still acknowledge how much work is still needed in the Lower 9th ward and the outlying areas. While the downtown area looks very pretty it only takes a short drive down the road to see that there is still so much renovation that needs to be done. After realizing that NOLA still has so much clean up left to do I hope that people will continue to serve the city."
~ Anna Florzak, Class of 2012

"I grew up on the panhandle of Florida, an area known to experience a hurricane or two. Yet even with that on my mind, nothing could compare to the desolate area of destruction that was the Lower Ninth Ward. Even five years later the damage still remains. Concrete slabs where houses once stood, porch steps leading to nothing, homes with holes in the roofs made by people, just like you and me, trying to escape from the flooding, building "tattoos" explaining how many people died in that building, and acres and acres of overgrown weeds and grass in place of a neighborhood where children once roamed. Visiting New Orleans one always thinks of the booming city, Bourbon Street, and the French Quarter yet we tend to forget about the other parishes and neighborhoods of New Orleans. I had never put up a single piece of dry wall in my life, yet I looked forward to spending my week creating these sheet rock shapes and forming the walls of what will someday be someone's home. There is nothing more satisfying than helping someone in need, and that is what I will take back from this trip the most. Growing closer with my classmates, people I had not even met until this trip, doesn't hurt either. My first trip to New Orleans is truly one I will NEVER forget."
~Matthew Vinson, Class of 2012

"New Orleans was an unforgettable experience. Not only did I get to bond with my classmates and create lasting relationships but I got to learn the infinite possibilities that we as humans have. On the trip, we were able to meet an outstanding man named Stanley who is a true hero of Hurricane Katrina. He was able to sacrifice his life to save his family. I have never been to New Orleans before and seeing the destruction that still exists 5 years after the storm opened my eyes to the help that countless people in this world need. In the end, it made me proud to be in the DeVos Sport Management Program because of the emphasis of using sport as a tool for social change."
~ Christopher Moran, Class of 2012

"My first impression of our trip to New Orleans and the Lower Ninth Ward was amazement and surprise at how little has been done in the past 5 years since Hurricane Katrina. My heart was filled with sorrow at the sight of so much devastation and suffering. Listening to the stories of the victims was difficult at times but an eye opening experience for me. This was my first trip ever to New Orleans. It was overwhelming to see the large number of vacant houses and weeded over empty lots. Despite the hard work the St Bernard Project, Hope for Stanley and other organizations have accomplished it seems like little progress has been made. But on the last day of our trip a victim of Hurricane Katina stopped by our worksite to speak with us and share his appreciation for the work we were doing and the effect it has had on him and his family. It felt good and made me feel a little better about how much impact our small contribution is making in the lives of people who would not have made it without our help. It was at that point I remembered an old Chinese proverb ‘to move a mountain you begin with the first pebble’. I now see how at least moving those first few pebbles through Hope for Stanley and other programs like it has helped impact his life, his family’s life and many others, but I also realize that there is still much more work to do to move this mountain."
~ Tony Scott, Class of 2012

"Words cannot adequately express what this week has done for Demetrius. I have seen the video footage and heard so many things about New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. It is one thing to watch television, but it is something so much more impactful see it in person. From the first time I set my eyes on the ninth ward, a part of me felt sad. I thought about all of the people whose lives were changed forever. I am an individual who has felt the agony of losing a close loved one, and I thought about all of the citizens of New Orleans who lost their family. Hearing the stories of the people of New Orleans was priceless, and really helped to put things into perspective for me. Next, I was so excited about helping build the homes back up for the people of New Orleans. Watching the home come together day by day was unbelievable to see and I cannot wait to head back in December to help another family. I came to volunteer and to give something back, but I actually was blessed in many ways as well, and I am so grateful for that."
~ Demetrius Frazier, Class of 2012

Interning with ANNIKA

Greetings!

This is Jaclyn Garris of the 2011 DeVos Sport Management Program. I attended Elon University where I majored in Leisure and Sport Management and minored in Business Administration. When I am not in one of my DeVos Sport Management classes at UCF, I am intern outside of the DeVos program for the ANNIKA Foundation as their Projects Manager Intern. Hall of fame LPGA golfer, Annika Sorenstam, founded the ANNIKA Foundation to focus on two goals: teaching kids the importance of fitness and nutrition and getting youth involved with golf. It is through her passion and support that we are able to touch the lives of many young people throughout the United States and Sweden.

This past weekend, on May 22nd, I was a part of the leadership team that hosted an event called the ANNIKA Junior Day in Memory of Holly Baxter at the ANNIKA Academy. The Baxter family made a generous donation to the Foundation to make a junior event possible. We had 80 kids ranging in age from 6 to 16 attend the event. There were four stations set-up: full-swing taught by Annika and her sister Charlotta, putting, chipping, and fitness where the kids got to climb up a rope and hit the Easy Button on top of the ceiling! Annika also held a clinic for all the juniors on the golf range and dazzled them with her unbelievable shot accuracy and long drives off the tee. The DeVos family supported our efforts that day by helping organize and direct the kids throughout the day. A big thank you goes out to: Christi, Devan, Joel, Joslyn, and Rodrigo for all of their help.



Front Row (L to R): Joslyn Dalton, Annika Sorenstam, Jaclyn Garris
Second Row (L to R): Cristi Ecks, Joel German, Rodrigo Quintanar, Devan Dignan

In addition to the Junior Day event, I help with the communication, marketing, and planning efforts for the Foundation, which has provided a tremendous learning experience thus far. I am extremely proud and honored to be a part of the ANNIKA brand and team. I hope that you take a look at the ANNIKA Foundation website to learn more about upcoming events and initiatives.

Fairways and Greens,

Jaclyn

Getting to know our namesake...

Hey everyone,

My name is Austin and I'm a member of the DeVos Class of 2011. I am originally from Hopkinsville, Kentucky and I went to the University of Kentucky where I played football. I am currently a graduate assistant for the Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport. My first year of graduate school has been one full of new experiences that have allowed me to meet a number of interesting and inspirational people.

Last Friday I got to spend time with one of the most interesting and inspirational men I have ever met in my life, Mr. Rich DeVos. Mr. DeVos embodies all the qualities that one seeks in a role model. Faithfulness, humility, intelligence, character, integrity, and honesty are just a few of the many adjectives that could be use to describe him. On April 23, 2010, the DeVos Class of 2011 got to meet and honor Mr. DeVos with a very special luncheon at the Black and Gold Lounge of the UCF Arena. Prior to entering this program I only had a surface level understanding of its’ namesake. However, after having a luncheon with Mr. DeVos, I can say that I have a much higher level of knowledge, appreciation, and admiration for a man who has done many great things to better the world in his lifetime.

In our time together Mr. DeVos shared personal stories and key moments in his life that brought success, disappointment, and lifelong lessons. He was a man raised from humble beginnings with a dream accompanied by great passion that has allowed him to earn the achievements that he has today. Mr. DeVos’s success has not only come from the creation and evolution of Amway Corporation. He has also been able to impact many lives through his philanthropic efforts and devotion to serving the community. When Hurricane Katrina devastated the city of New Orleans in 2005, Mr. DeVos flew the entire Hornets staff to Orlando, provided shelter, and personally paid their salaries until they were able to move back. The average billionaire, and for that matter, not even the average man would do something as selfless as this. This just goes to show the special type of human being that Mr. DeVos is and the commitment that resides deep within to give back to the community and help others. Words do not explain how encouraging it is to witness someone that has built a multi-billion dollar empire upon a foundation of integrity and ethics, serve their community with love and commitment, and lived life not to please others, but to please God. After completing one full academic year in the DeVos program, I can say that meeting Mr. Rich DeVos has been my best experience thus far and a moment of my life that I will cherish forever.

Have a great weekend,

Austin

Meet the Class - Jessie

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Jessie Kalyn Gardner

Hometown: B-E-A-UTIFUL Sarasota, FL

Undergraduate School & Major: UCF, Interpersonal Communication

Past Sports Industry Experiences: Played soccer for UCF from 2004-2008 (don’t have much!)

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: GA for the Assistant Director for Student Services in Athletics

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: Besides the fact that it was one of the top programs in the nation, I knew it was where God wanted me to be, especially after I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Lapchick, Dr. Sutton, and Dr. Harrison. The “3 Wise Men” as we like to call them, exemplify the core values of this program inside and out. I couldn’t have made a better choice!

Future Career Ambitions: I hope to be an event coordinator/manager for a sports team or organization. However, after working in my graduate assistantship in UCF Athletics, I could also see myself working in athletics at a Division I institution as the Life Skills Coordinator or as the Director of Student Services.

If you could play a round of golf with any three sports figures (dead or alive, on the field or off) whom would you choose and why?
Tiger Woods – might as well play with the best, even in light of all that has happened - I am sure we would have plenty of good conversation on the course.
Muhammad Ali – I have always been fascinated with his confidence and charisma, let alone his incredible ability to be the best in boxing
Tony Dungy – He is by far one of my greatest role models, for his coaching philosophy and integrity as a person, understanding that he has the power to influence everyone he comes in contact with.

Meet The Class - Kristin

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Kristin Hurst

Hometown: Miami, FL

Undergraduate School & Major: Florida International University- Business Administration & Recreation and Sport Management

Past Sports Industry Experiences: Gulliver Schools Academy Campus Athletic Department Intern and Varsity Girls Soccer Assistant Coach; FIU Athletics Ticket Office Intern; Miami FC Marketing Intern; United States Olympic Committee F.L.A.M.E. (Finding Leaders among Minorities) Program participant

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: GA for the National Consortium of Academics and Sports, UCF Athletics Guest Services and the Orlando Magic Will Call Services

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: My main goal for the future is to always be linked to my passion and my passion is sports. The DeVos program allows me to do just that. As one of the top five programs in the nation, the DeVos program is led by an all-star cast of passionate driven directors, Drs Lapchick, Sutton and Harrison. This program encourages you to become a well-rounded individual by participating in community service. This program also allows me to diversify myself by obtaining two masters degrees.

Future Career Ambitions: I would like to work in college athletics or for the U.S. Olympic Committee. I am interested in the Events and Operations aspect of the business.

If you could play a round of golf with any three sports figures (dead or alive, on the field or off) whom would you choose and why?

Billie Jean King was an advocate for the women’s movement for equality in sports. Because of her resiliency and confidence, I was able to play soccer and make it all the way to the collegiate level.

Alonzo Mourning is my hero. I grew up watching him play for the Miami Heat and his ‘never quit’ attitude on and off the court inspired me to let nothing get in my way to reach success. He also used his status as an athlete to make a tremendous impact in the Miami community with his charity work.

Theirry Henry is my favorite soccer player. His finesse and speed on the field are the reasons why I fell in love with soccer.

Meet The Class - Vinay

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Vinay A. Shah

Hometown: Winter Haven, FL

Undergraduate School & Major: Management Information Systems

Current G.A. or Internship/Job: Intern at Siemens

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: The DeVos program was a place where I could see myself helping to change the sports industry for the better.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences): Work for an IT department for a professional sports organization and then eventually start a consulting company to help with technical designs for stadiums.

If you could play a round of golf with any three sports figures (dead or alive, on the field or off) who would you choose and why?
Tiger Woods – It would be fun to watch the greatest golf star and then have him teach me to play.
Joe Torre – The best manager in all of baseball. He was an inspiration and a great role model.
Tony Dungy – My favorite coach with the Bucs and a great man. I would just like to talk to him about his career and life.

Not Your Typical Spring Break

Hello all!

David Benoit here. I hail from the great city of Boston, Mass; but I did spend a few years in Delray Beach, FL – so I guess you can say I’m a dual native of both cities and states. I haven’t quite come to grips with that yet but someday I will. I completed my undergraduate degree here at this great institution, the University of Central Florida, with a degree in Marketing and a minor in Sports Business Management (1 of 9 to first receive the minor, yes I’m tooting my own horn, but its ok). It’s great to be able to go to graduate school at my alma mater. It leaves no room for confusion as to where my allegiances lie, GO KNIGHTS!!!!!

Spring break has come and gone for us in our first year in the DeVos program. While others were tanning at the beaches or catching up on some much needed rest and foolery - my classmates spent our break getting our hands dirty and doing some real work done in the city of New Orleans, and the St. Bernard Parrish in partnership with Hope For Stanley (a non-profit founded by past DeVos students that is dedicated to rebuilding the city of New Orleans and providing hope to the people of that great city).

This was my 3rd trip to NOLA, but every time I go it brings excitement and new perspective. When I visited the city on my first trip back in August the feelings I felt were just indescribable. I felt anger, frustration, excitement, sadness. Just about any emotion you can think of I felt, and at the same time I felt empty as it was a surreal moment and experience. The 2nd trip in December was different in that some of the same feelings arose again, but not nearly as strong as the first and I was ready to work and do some positive things and help those people.
The 3rd trip was very different from the first two. As soon as I stepped foot into the hotel I wanted to get to a work site and get building. I have accepted the fact that the rest of the country and the world has forgotten about this city, and that everyone feels as if time alone can cure such a devastating tragedy. What they fail to realize is time can be a constant reminder, that if not fostered properly, re-growth can be at a standstill and even allow digression to take place. I am no longer angry when I think about the city of New Orleans, instead I am just hoping to make a difference.

When I arrived at my work site, my teammates ( I look at my classmates as my teammates) and I were happy to see that the house needed sheet rock put up. Dry walling is probably the most rewarding job you can do, in my opinion, because you can see the fruits of your labor, and see the progress that is being made. There were other schools involved with this work site so it was nice to see and interact with other students like us that felt the need to help the city and area. Although they were some NOLA rookies and complained a little too much on the grind of construction, they did their share and it was a really nice and different experience.

It was hilarious and uplifting at watching how upset my teammate got about the bad mudding job someone from another school was doing on her wall. I won’t name any names but she knows who she is. I am happy to be with a team that really cares about the quality of their work and that really wants to help others. By week’s end my teammates and I had the entire house’s dry wall completely hung up and mudded. I made sure to put my mark on a wall for the next group to see that the DeVos students held it down and they better do just as good of a job. Our reward for ourselves every night after a hard day’s work was to go out and experience the city. We spent time in different parts of NOLA by visiting restaurants, local colleges, and even had time to watch a Hornets game. We even got a picture with some of the Hornets dancers afterward. I tried to get kiss on the cheek from one but she wasn’t having that. Maybe next time!

The work was complete, and we were all tired and ready to head back to Orlando and get back to the easy life of graduate school (hearing that Natalie and Kaj still had energy to run every morning was just ridiculous, those girls have plenty of stamina!) but I can’t wait till August when I can go back again and show the new class what this city has gone through and allow them to see that the fight is not over, and we are the arms that will raise the city and help it prevail.

Going back to NOLA is no longer just an opportunity for me to give back; it has become part of my curriculum and part of who I am. I can be honest in myself in knowing that unfortunately once I leave the program I may not have time to come back like I do now while in the program. For me to miss a trip to NOLA would be like missing one of Dr. Lapchick’s classes or arriving late to a Dr. Harrison discussion, you just can’t do that, and if you do it better be for a darn good reason. I feel the same way about the Big Easy. I can’t begin to describe the immense level of pride, love and excitement I feel every day about my classmates and realize what it means when I can say I’m a member of 2011 graduating class of the DeVos Sport Business Management Graduate Program at UCF. Visiting NOLA is another reason why I thank god for this tremendous opportunity and experience.

Cheers!

David Benoit

Meet The Class 2011 - Austin

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Austin Moss II

Hometown: Hopkinsville, KY

Undergraduate School & Major: University of Kentucky, Business Marketing

Past Sports Industry Experiences: University of Kentucky Football 2005-2009

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: Graduate Assistant, The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: I chose Devos because of the unique combination to provide service to the Orlando community, study ethical issues in sport, and learn from three of the most influential and knowledgeable figures in sport business.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences): Upon graduation, I hope to intern with an NFL organization or NFL League Office. My ultimate goal is to become a Director of Player Personnel for a NFL team.

If you could play a round of golf with any three sports figures (dead or alive, on the field or off) whom would you choose and why? (Examples: Michael Jordan, David Stern, Pat Summit)

If I could play a round of golf with any three sports figures, my foursome would include:
Michael Jordan – I’d love to have a conversation with him to see what drove his intrinsic motivation.
Jackie Robinson – Who wouldn’t want to spend a day with the man who broke the biggest barrier in America’s most historical sport?
Tiger Woods - If you’re going to play the game you should play with the best in the world, and I would like to converse with him about his successes and recent failures.

Jemele Hill: A Pioneer in Sports Journalism

Hey all,

My name is Christopher Kaiser and I was born and raised in “beautiful” Buffalo, New York- home to some of the best beaches on the American side of Lake Erie. I did my undergraduate work at SUNY-Geneseo (Go Knights!!!!) and graduated this past spring with a degree in Management. I came to UCF due to the reputation of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program, the family atmosphere that is cultivated, and the distinguished faculty that guide the program. Thus far the program has more than exceeded my expectations and I look forward to all that lays ahead for our class in the upcoming year.

One of the many incredible aspects of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the weekly speaker series. Every Friday, a prominent figure from the sports industry comes to campus and speaks to our class. Following the speaker, we generally have a reception in the TIDES office where we can casually speak with the distinguished guest one-on-one. This past Friday ESPN columnist and TV personality Jemele Hill visited the UCF campus to speak to our class. Now I don’t how many of you killed two hours of your day as an undergraduate watching ESPN’s First Take, but I know I did! So, having someone that I watched on TV almost every day in college, two feet in front of me, was almost surreal.

Ms. Hill began her speech by telling us about her upbringing in a low-income household in urban Detroit. Although she was very modest when speaking about this period of her life, it was clear that her drive and work ethic were cultivated by the adversity that she faced at this time. She then went on to discuss her career path and how she got to where she was now at ESPN. An astounding fact that she revealed was that a study conducted by our own Dr. Lapchick several years before, had shown that she was the only African-American women working as a sports columnnist in the United States. I found this shocking and it allowed me to really understand the type of pioneer she was in sports journalism. This part of the speech was pretty standard as far as our speakers go, however the fact that she only spoke “at us” for 30 minutes and opened the room up to questions for an hour and a half was not. It a truly incredible opportunity to have 90 minutes to “pick the brain” of someone who is so prominent and influential in the sports entertainment industry. As a class, we bombarded her with questions for this whole time period on issues ranging from matters of diversity in sports to “What’s the deal with Skip Bayless?” Ms. Hill answered every question with enthusiasm and genuine interest. This question and answer session was arguably the most intriguing class-wide interaction of the speaker series thus far. After the official meeting was over, Ms.Hill came to the TIDES office for a small reception for over an hour. During this time, she graciously talked with a number of students in a one-on-one setting.

Reflecting on the overall experience of having Jemele Hill as a speaker, I almost could not get past the excitement of meeting a famous television personality and the entertaining, humorous way in which she spoke to us. However, when thinking about it a little more, it was clear that there was a deeper message that could be taken from Ms. Hill; that was one of modesty and humility. The down-to-earth manner in which Jemele Hill carried herself when interacting with us blew me away. For all she had accomplished and overcome in her career, she showed us the upmost respect and did not once discuss her own accomplishments. This made me examine the fact that I can act in an arrogant manner or get cocky about something as insignificant as doing well on a test in one of my classes. While a celebrity talent like Ms.Hill doesn’t say word about something as significant as breaking down gender and racial barriers in sports journalism. Going forward, I will now make a greater effort to let my actions and hard work speak for themselves, rather than gloating to and looking down on others. Whether Jemele Hill knows it or not, by simply being herself she not only gave us a better understanding of sports media, but also helped shape me into a better person.

It can be seen in my reflections above that the doors that are opened to you by the DeVos program can have profound impacts on you both personally and professionally. To quote the famous blog writer Jesse Gardner, “I am a very lucky individual to have been chosen to be a part of the DeVos family and I continue to look forward to all the opportunities and experiences that are still yet to come.” I could not agree with statement more and I consider my choice to come to UCF as one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Also, I had some fun with my fellow classmate Jessie’s blog post in the beginning, so I thought why not at the end as well. Now, she may get upset with me, but the beauty of the DeVos program is that we see each other so much and have built such close relationships, that I am confident we will be able to work through this minor bump in the road.

Have a Great Day!!

Chris

"Georgia [Southern] on my mind..."

Hi Everyone!

I'm Jessie Gardner and I'm originally from beautiful Sarasota, Florida - home of the best beaches in Florida! I did my undergraduate here at the University of Central Florida where I played soccer (Go Knights!!) and I am loving the fact that I get to spend a little more time here in Orlando on this wonderful campus as a student in the DeVos Sport Business Management program.

Although Monday starts the week and we’re back to the grind, it brings a smile to my face to reflect on our class’ trip to Savannah, GA this past weekend for the GA Southern Conference. Not only was it a weekend to further our networking skills and to network the DeVos program to others, but we also had the opportunity to see one of our directors in a different element and meet a bunch of people from different universities and colleges.


Every year, GA Southern hosts a Sports Business Conference that allows students from all over to hear and interact with professionals within the sports business industry, as well as meet other students who share similar career interests. Although the 29 members of my class see Dr. Sutton in the office every week, it was a privilege and unique opportunity for us to hear him in a different element, as he was the Keynote Speaker at the conference. He spoke on what is to come in the sports industry, as far as ticket and seat accommodations at events to having corporate names on major American sport uniforms. His speech was fun and interactive (never thought I’d see one of my directors in a Star Trek uniform!), but really made you think too. He challenged us to think outside of the box, as anything is possible in society today, and prompted us to evaluate what these advancements in sports meant as far as future careers. It was great to see how he captivated the group. I found a built up anxiousness for our classes to begin with him this summer.

Some of the other speakers at the conference included Gilbert Beverly, Director of Sports Management at ESPN; Melissa Kristofak, Associate Director of Communications for the Atlantic 10 Conference; Matt Lynch, Director of Guest Services for the Atlanta Braves; Chris D’Orso, Vice President of Marketing for the Orlando Magic; Chris Sperry, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Atlanta Beat; and Erika Brakken, Senior Marketing Manager for Adidas. They all presented informational messages specific to their job and in a general sense for us as we try to break into this industry.

A former DeVos student from the 2010 graduating class told me that their class had bonded greatly on this trip. At the end of the first day of the conference, I felt disappointed because I did not feel our class was getting that same experience. However, by the end of the conference, that feeling was completely changed. As it has been mentioned before, we consider ourselves more than a Sports Business Program, we consider ourselves as the DeVos family. I saw members of my class connecting with each other in so many instances; during our heated debate on cell phones during lunch, as we relaxed on the rooftop of a local restaurant, in helping one of our classmates try to find her misplaced phone, in one-on-one conversations about life and what’s to come, over our butter soaked delicious dinner at Paula Deen’s restaurant, as three cars stayed to help a classmate when his car would not start, and when some of us stopped at the house our classmate grew up in and visited with his parents. There are so many more instances I could share from the weekend, but I found myself reflecting on the way home of the sense of family I felt with these individuals I met just 6 months ago. It’s incredible to know that I have this type of support, with people I can laugh, cry, stress, and make memories with.

To wrap this up (obviously I am as we say, long winded!) this conference was more to me than just networking. It was more to me than learning more about the industry I am pursuing. To me, it was an opportunity to build my relationships with those around me, to heighten my confidence in who I am as a person and as a member of the DeVos family, and to grow as I stepped out of my box in meeting others. I am a very lucky individual to have been chosen to be a part of the DeVos family and I continue to look forward to all the opportunities and experiences that are still yet to come.

Have a great day!!
Jessie

It's more than a program ... it's a family

"Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family:Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one."
~ Jane Howard

Wow! What a blur these past few weeks have been. We have gotten more involved in our new rung of classes, we have been planning trips to Savannah, GA and New Orleans, LA, and we have had guest speakers ranging from John Walsh of ESPN to members of the UCF Athletic Department. It really has been a whirlwind as the class of 2011 is just now settling into the new semester and our onslaught of new classes and responsibilities.

This semester I took over as the Recruitment Chair for our class and in preparing to go to the Georgia Southern Conference in Savannah this week, myself and some of my classmates have been working on some recruitment materials. Yesterday, I was working on a display with my friend Cristi and in doing so, we were using the old board as a reference. We were looking at the old board and getting ideas when we saw a maxim across the middle of the board:

DeVos: "It's more than a program... it's a family."

The two of us got a laugh about how cliche this slogan was but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that while cliche, there really is no better way to put it. I have a unique experience in that for a year and a half I get to spend my time with 28 other people from all across the world who share my passion: to make a difference in the world through the use of sport. While we share that similarity we could not be more diverse and more different. We come from all backgrounds and all locations but over the past 6 months, friendships have been formed and lasting bonds have been made. I look at my 28 classmates and realize they aren't just friends they are family.

As a class we have always been there and supported each other and like any group of people we have had our disagreements but at the end of the day - we are family. I know that if need be, any of my 28 classmates would support me in my greatest triumphs and have my back in my greatest hour of need. I once got a card that read, "friends are the family that you choose" and while DeVos may have chosen the 28 people who I would call family, I would not have chosen a different group of 28 if I had the power to go back and make that choice myself. My 28 classmates are an amazing group of people and I am lucky to be counted among that group. We are a close-knit group who support one another through thick and thin. I am excited to be a member of this class and about the things that we are all going to accomplish in the coming months and once we have received our degrees.

This is why I chose DeVos; this is why I'm proud to be DeVos; and this is why (if you're at the Georgia Southern Conference this weekend) I hope that you will come visit me at the DeVos table and listen to our director Dr. Bill Sutton speak and see if the best decision that I ever made is also the best decision for you. I'm proud to be in the DeVos program but more than that I am proud to be a member of the family that is the DeVos Class of 2011.

Have a great week,

Devan

Meet The Class 2011 - Shane

One of the unique attributes of the DeVos Sport Business Management Program is the network of students who make up our program. Our class will take every course together during our tenure here at UCF and we will work on countless group projects and collaborative efforts. As a result of our shared interests in the business of sport, a natural team camaraderie is formed. However, our team is composed of people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. We offer profiles of class members to give you an idea as to the type of people who make up our program, individuals who collectively will be leaders in sport and society and will be teammates for life.

Name: Shane Land

Hometown: Lexington, Kentucky

Undergraduate School & Major: University of Kentucky - Business Marketing & Management

Past Sports Industry Experiences: University of Kentucky Athletics - 4 years as Student Track and Field Coach, 3 years as Academic Services Assistant in the Center for Academic and Tutorial Services, Volunteered with University of Kentucky’s Sports Marketing Department for two years
Other - Collegiate Basketball Referee

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: Fall 2009 DeVos Scholarship Recipient, Spring 2010 Assistantship: Marketing Internship Coordinator

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: The networking capabilities, curriculum, and the idea of using sport to create social change all attracted me to the program.

Future Career Ambitions: Currently, I would like to work in event management/planning while continuing to pursue my career in basketball officiating.

If you could play a round of golf with any three sports figures (dead or alive, on the field or off) whom would you choose and why?
Well, this question requires a little thought. First and foremost, I believe that I would have to include John Wooden. I admire John Wooden not just because he was a tremendous collegiate basketball coach, but because he seems to genuinely have everyone’s best interest at heart. He was a teacher of not only the game but life when he was at UCLA which made him a great mentor for college athletes.
Next, I would pick Coach Vince Lombardi. He is quite possibly the best ever professional football coach and he had the ability to motivate athletes like no one else. Having the chance to pick his brain for a couple of hours could be very enlightening and could quite possibly help me become a better motivator.
Last but not least, I would take NBA basketball referee, Steve Javie, because I would not survive a round of golf with two coaches without the help of another official. Actually, I consider Mr. Javie the best basketball official on the planet and talking basketball philosophy with great officials is fascinating to me. I feel like I could learn a lot from Mr. Javie.

"Back to school, back to school to prove to Dad I'm not a fool..."
~ Adam Sandler (Billy Madison)

As of yesterday, my second semester as a graduate student has officially begun. The Class of 2011 is back in the swing of things and the class of 2010 is out there in the "real world" working at jobs and beginning their internships. For me it's an exciting time, a real chance for myself and my classmates to grow within our program. For the first time we are taking classes with the directors as we will see Dr.'s Lapchick and Harrison in our classrooms in the coming semester.

It is a chance for us to delve into classes more specific to our sports management degree and to learn about the specific industry of sport. It is also a time when our class will realize it's just us here and we get the unique opportunity to take responsibility and pursue different opportunities for ourselves and the program.

There are a lot of things going on for me to be excited about this semester as I take the reins of Hope For Stanley, take sports classes, and as some of us get to start work on a new book with Dr. Lapchick but what has me the most excited? A sign up sheet hanging in the DeVos office for interview sign-ups.

That's right. Soon enough, my classmates and I will be interviewing the applicants who wish to be a part of the class of 2012. For me it means that it won't be just us 11ers in here for long. I am excited to meet each and every one of you who hope to be a part of this great program and continue our great tradition.

For those of you who have not yet applied, it's still not too late! Go online and fill out the application, submit your GMAT score, and get those letters of recommendation. I know that a number of you have worked really hard for this purpose and I hope to see all of you in Orlando real soon!

Best of luck this semester!
~ Devan

Tweeting About Sports

Hello Readers,

First off, we here in the DeVos Program wish you all a fantastic start to the New Year. Best of luck to you prospective students working diligently to boost your GMAT score or to compose the final pieces of your application to the DeVos Program. We will have original posts updated on the blog in the comings days and weeks, but we quickly wanted to let you know that Dr. Lapchick's articles can now be found on Twitter. Be sure to friend and follow "richardlapchick" on Twitter so you can receive updates whenever Dr. Lapchick posts a new story on ESPN, the Sports Business Journal, or other national and regional publications. As always, you can also continue to read Dr. Lapchick's articles on the TIDES and main DeVos Program web sites.