Friday, July 22, 2011

From the Rough

Before we left for break, we had the opportunity to screen the independent film, "From the Rough". It’s the heart-warming, refreshing, and true story of a men’s golf team at Tennessee State University that is coached and led by Catana Starks (played by Taraji P. Henson). LeToya Luckett, Michael Clark Duncan, and Tom Felton (for your Harry Potter fans) join Henson on the screen to show the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of a golf team that is forced to come together or risk falling apart. Each character must face past demons and fears to emerge from the rough on the golf course and in life.

A few things came to mind after I screen this movie. I was reminded of several movies with sports backdrops like Seabisquit, The Blind Side, and Remember the Titans when I watched this film. It’s the classic underdog story with so many layers such that you get a good sense of every character and his or her story in the film. It was also refreshing to see another film centered around a historically black university. We’ve seen “Drumline” and “Stomp the Yard”, but this one provides another viewpoint of the HBCU experience.

Personally, I enjoyed the film, and the way that it brought pressing issues that it brought to the forefront. This movie finds a way to shed light on race, culture, gender, socio-economic status, love, defeat, and triumph and wrap it all into one movie about one team. I’m excited to see what happens with this movie once it is released to the public in the Fall.

Be sure to like “From the Rough” on Facebook and follow @gyremovies on Twitter and visit www.FromtheRoughMovie.com.




Andrew Lilly














Meet the Class- Jeremy

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: Jeremy Miller

Hometown: Keller, TX

Undergraduate School & Major:
Louisiana State University
Economics

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
Projects Manager Intern at the ANNIKA Foundation


Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
I looked at the dual Masters program as an opportunity to expand my opportunities in the business world and gain an in-depth understanding of the sports industry. The community service aspect of the program also sparked my attention. Since I was younger, I focused on giving back to the community in order to provide inspiration to underprivileged individuals and help those in need.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
After graduation, I hope to land a job with a sports organization in the field of business development. In the next 5-10 years, I plan on opening a sports consulting firm after gaining valuable industry experience.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
If I could have any superpower, I would definitely choose teleportation. This way, I could travel around the world and experience multiple cultures without ever taking a step.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know?
Nelson Mandela. I would want to know how someone could go through so much adversity throughout the course of his lifetime and still manage to unite a nation through the power of sport.



Monday, June 6, 2011

Meet the Class - Tavia

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: Tavia Record

Hometown: Brampton

Undergraduate School & Major:
University of Central Florida
English Creative Writing, BA

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*Graduate Assistant for The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport
*Athletics Compliance Office Volunteer
*Graduate Assistant Student-Athlete Advisor and Mentor in the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences
*International Full-Scholarship Track & Field Student-Athlete


Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
Iron sharpens iron, as one man sharpens another.
-Proverbs 27:17

I acted on a desire to be challenged by the best sport management directorship and a diverse cohort to increase my strength as a leader and to learn new ways to use my gifts to uplift others.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
My short-term career goals

*Become a leading image consultant that is known for helping professional athletes maximize their potential in the public eye. I would meet the needs of my clients by providing service and assistance in personal project development, philanthropy, public relations, garnering sponsorships and brand management.

*Represent Canada at the 2012 Olympics in the 400m and 4x400m relay

*Expand my image consulting project for youth, which stems from my belief that every child deserves to feel validated and to be given the guidance to embark on their dreams

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
It would be awesome to have the ability to travel in time to…

*rewind to visit various eras in history

*pause priceless moments that I have shared with my family, friends, teammates, coaches, mentors, sorority sisters and the President’s Leadership Council

*fast-forward to peek at how the seeds I’ve sown this season will take shape and bloom in the future

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know?
I enjoy talking and learning from elderly people, so if I could jump into a time-travel mobile, I’d choose to visit my great-grandfather named Charles Griffiths. He was a World War I veteran who was known for being honorable, loyal, respectful and charming. From the stories that I’ve heard, he sounds like someone that I could laugh and talk with for hours. I would ask him to talk about how he stayed true to his values and how this paid off very well in his professional and personal life.



Friday, June 3, 2011

Favorite Stadium/Arena Experience- Amanda

Stadiums/Arenas Visited:
Amway Center (Orlando Magic)
Raymond James Stadium (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
EverBank Field (Jacksonville Jaguars)
Fenway Park (Boston Redsox)
Gillette Stadium (New England Patriots/New England Revolution)
TD Garden (Boston Celtics/Boston Bruins)
Bank One Ballpark (Arizona Diamondbacks)
Daytona International Speedway (NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500)
Brighthouse Networks Stadium (University of Central Florida)
New Orleans Arena (New Orleans Hornets)

Venues I’d like to Visit:
Yankee Stadium (New York Yankees)
Churchill Downs (Kentucky Derby)
Charlotte Motor Speedway (NASCAR Sprint Cup Series)
Wrigley Field (Chicago Cubs)
Madison Square Garden (New York Knicks)
Cowboys Stadium (Dallas Cowboys)

Favorite Venue:
Gillette Stadium

Favorite Experience:
I hadn’t realized how many venues I had been to over the span of my short life until I started making this list. With each addition, I began to think about how fortunate I was to experience each of these stadiums/arenas and how each one of them had an entertaining story to accompany it. My most favorite fan experience took place at the TD Bank Garden during a Boston Celtics game. It was my informal introduction to Kevin Garnett. Sitting only three rows behind the Celtics bench provided just the view I needed to actually appreciate KG’s greatness in person. At the beginning of each home game, KG takes massive amounts of baby powder in his hands, throws it in the air, and then proceeds to both ends of the court drawing in the great cheers of the audience filled Garden. The game hadn’t even started and unknowingly my excited grip had already left fingernail impressions in my best friend Matt’s arm.

Amanda Barton













Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Favorite Stadium/Arena Experience- Chris M.

Stadiums/Arenas visited:
MLB Spring Training
High Corbett Field (Colorado Rockies)
McKechnie Field (Pittsburgh Pirates)
Tucson Electric Park (Arizona Diamondbacks)

Professional
Al Lang Stadium (FC Tampa Bay)
American Airlines Arena (Miami Heat)
Angel Stadium (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim)
AT&T Park (S.F. Giants)
Chase Field (Arizona Diamondbacks)
Florida Citrus Bowl (Orlando City Soccer)
Home Depot Center (Los Angeles Galaxy)
Honda Center (Anaheim Ducks)
Jobing.com Arena (Phoenix Coyotes)
Lambeau Field (Green Bay Packers)
New Orleans Arena (New Orleans Hornets)
Raymond James Stadium (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
Staples Center (Los Angeles Lakers)
Superdome (New Orleans Saints)
Target Center (Minnesota Timberwolves)
Target Field (Minnesota Twins)
Tropicana Field (Tampa Bay Rays)
US Airways Center (Phoenix Suns)

International
Croke Park (Dublin, Ireland Gaelic Football & Rugby)

Venues I'd Like to Visit:
All major professional sporting venues (my bucket list)

Favorite Venue:
Lambeau Field, with due respects to Angels Stadium

Favorite Experience:
Being from Orange County, California, Angels Stadium feels like home for me. Growing up, tickets were $7 for kids and $13 for adults for the Family Fun Zone. I owe where I am today as it pertains to this field to reading an article about the CFO of the Angeles. I thought to myself, I love numbers and I love sports! If I could combine the two into a career I would enjoy every day at work. Since then, I have been very fortunate to work for teams such as the Colorado Rockies and the Orlando Magic.

But to the question of my favorite venue, Lambeau Field wins hands down. I have been a Packers fan all my life and I finally got to go to a game the year they won the Super Bowl! It was at Lambeau Field that I got to experience a true tailgate. My friend and I started at Brett Favre’s Steakhouse 3 hours before the game then met up with my buddy’s friends outside the stadium. I have never been colder in my life so I quickly befriended a man with a propane heater. He offered us food and even heat packs for the game! I even got to meet the Packers’ number one fan, NFL Owner (pictured below). When we got into the stadium, I walked around to absorb the experience. Hot chili was being served, people were making posters, and cheese heads were seen everywhere! One of the best moments was actually at halftime where I went to the restroom and it was heated! Outside it was 22 degrees and in the bathroom was 85! When I finally got back, I squeezed into my place and continued to cheer. I am proud to say I never sat down! For one, the seats were bleachers and would have been freezing. Secondly, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I didn’t want to miss a second. When the game was over and we beat the Bears, everyone was cheering, slapping hands, and having a good time in the parking lot.

In sports business management we are taught to be professionals, not fans. But for me, this was a pure fan experience. I hope it can inspire you to see the world out there as I have a goal of seeing all major professional sports venues before I die!

Thank you for reading and good luck on your adventures,

Chris Moran














Sunday, May 22, 2011

Favorite Stadium/Arena Experience- Matt V.

Stadiums/Arenas visited:
Amway Arena (Orlando Magic)
Amway Center (Orlando Magic)
Raymond James Stadium (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
Wrigley Field (Chicago Cubs)
Brighthouse Networks Stadium (University of Central Florida)
Daytona Speedway
Florida Citrus Bowl

Venues I'd Like to Visit:
The new Marlins Stadium (opening next year)
Soldier Field (Chicago Cubs)
Fenway Park (Boston Redsox)
The New Yankees Stadium (New York Yankees)
Old Trafford (Machester United F.C.)
AT&T Park (S.F. Giants)
Just about any NFL stadium

Favorite Venue:
Toss up between Amway Center, Wrigley Field, and Raymond James

Favorite Experience:
I just started actually visiting professional (and collegiate) sports in person when I started college and could somewhat afford it. Growing up in Niceville Florida did not exactly offer any real live event opportunities. The first professional sporting event I ever went to was an Orlando Magic playoff game in April of 2009. The ticket was a birthday present to see the Magic take on the 76ers, on their way to the NBA Finals. Although that experience was great, it is not my favorite. It is hard to argue against the technological awe that the new Amway Center creates yet working there never really gave me the true "experience" of the arena. Raymond James Stadium's pirate ship is also hard to contend with. If you have never heard the cannons fire as Tampa scores, you're missing out on a great NFL tradition. My favorite experience however would have to be visiting the classic Wrigley Field for a daytime Cubs game versus the Braves. This was the second live professional sporting event I ever attended and first I paid for. There is nothing more relaxing than having an Old Style while sitting in the Chicago sun watching the manual scoreboard change for a Cubs home run. Although I grew up a Marlins fan (and still somehow I remain a Marlins fan) a little bit of me took in the Cubs as a sort of step child. To me that is a day I will always remember and cherish. Attending live events is something I have always wanted to make apart of my regular basis and something I am only recently being able to accomplish. With limited experiences in a growing hobby as well as the opportunities the DeVos program is creating for me with a career in sports, I hope to add to these experiences in the near future.

Matthew Vinson














Thursday, May 19, 2011

What Is Your Price?

A few weeks ago, our class had a passionate debate that forced us to look at college athletes and professional leagues through different lenses. Every league has its own policies concerning who is and who is not eligible to get drafted. The NFL requires a player to be at least 3 years out of high school before he is eligible to enter the draft and the NBA mandates one year out of high school. Meanwhile, the MLB allows teams to draft a player right out of high school, but if the player chooses not to go pro, he will not be draft-eligible until he is 21 years of age. I can’t speak for the entire class, but it seems to me like the MLB got it right. For the select few who are good enough to play professionally and excel, I think they should have the option. I think the MLB’s current policy would be great for the NBA, and consequently, put an end to the “one and done” phenomenon currently plaguing college basketball. I have no problem with the NFL’s rule because of the amount of contact and physical development required for the sport. As a class, we agreed that deciding whether or not athletes are ready to turn pro should be done on a case-by-case/league-by-league basis.


This healthy debate spawned into a more personal debate that hit a lot of us much closer to home. It is so easy for many of us to judge athletes who leave school early to pursue a professional career because many of us do not get that option. In actuality, very few college athletes really get that option. For most of us, it takes four years or more to earn a college degree so we can pursue our professional goals. Many of my classmates have realized that it often takes more than a bachelor’s degree to pursue our professional goals. We have also realized that the industry we are trying to break into or reenter is very competitive. We have to be willing to go the extra mile, work harder, work longer, and get a bit lucky to get to where we are trying to go. This begs the question of what our price is. What are we willing to do? How far are we willing to go? What are we willing to sacrifice? Mr. Keith Lee from the National Consortium for Academics and Sports joined our discussion and made us realize that we all come at a price.


For athletes fortunate enough to play professionally, six and seven figure contracts appear to be the driving force. At the same time, the rest of us have our own price. This point was driven home when Dr. Harrison asked how many of us would leave the DeVos program early if we had the opportunity to get our dream job. There were a few brave souls (myself included) who raised their hands. Mr. Lee furthered this point when he said that he could make us do almost anything if the price was right. That could be leaving school early, moving to a less than ideal city, or doing something unethical. The entire discussion just brought a lot of things into perspective for us. Everyone wants to be successful. Everyone wants to be happy and live the American Dream. Everyone is trying to figure out where they fit in this puzzle we call life. Everyone comes at a price.

Andrew Lilly














Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Meet the Class - Tony

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: Tony J Scott

Hometown: Orlando, FL

Undergraduate School & Major:
University of Central Florida, BSBA in Finance


Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
Richard Lapchick

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
I would like to work in college or professional sports.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
The ability to have a photographic memory because I think it would be amazing to be able to recall everything you see or read.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know?
Jesus Christ and Martin Luther King Jr. because I would like to get first hand insight into the mind of someone who gave their life trying to make other people’s life and society better.



Thursday, April 28, 2011

Meet the Class - Taunita

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: Taunita Stephenson

Hometown: Upper Marlboro, Gorgeous Prince Georges County, MD

Undergraduate School & Major:
Delaware State University; Sport Management

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
*Greater Washington Sport Alliance; Intern
*Ronald E. McNair Post Baccalaureate Achievement Program; Researcher
*Charlotte Bobcats; Intern
*Delaware State University; Game Time Ops Manager

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*GA for the National Consortium of Academics and Sport
*UCF Student Athlete Services and WomenTalkSports.com Volunteer


Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
I choose the DeVos Program because of its unique features. One, being the leadership of the program in Dr. Lapchick, Dr. Sutton, and Dr. Harrison. Their beliefs and connections offer us a lot to learn from. Two, being the cohort approach in the learning environment, giving us a tight family feel. Three, being the focus the program has on ethics, diversity, leadership and service. No other Sport Business Program and the country can offer all this in one package.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
Mainly helping athletes with their lives off the field. Whether this is professionally, with their own non-profits, at the collegiate level or in my own business, I am still unsure.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
I would like to be able to see into the future, even if it’s just for a few minutes or a few months ahead. It would put my mind at ease to have some hint about where my life is going.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know?
Seriously, for me to answer this question, I would have to choose like 10 people. Muhammad Ali, Kobe Bryant, Jay-Z, Pete Maravich are a few names that come to mind.



Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Meet the Class - Shantonie

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: Shantonie Derrick

Hometown: Evanston, Illinois

Undergraduate School & Major:
I attended Hampton University, Class of 2009, and received a Bachelor’s of Science in Marketing.

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
In the past, I have interned with the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) under the Associate Commissioner, Jeffrey Mcleod, the NCAA Big Ten Basketball Tournament, and Northwestern University Athletics.

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
I am currently a Graduate Assistant for the National Consortium for Academics and Sports (NCAS).

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
I chose the DeVos program for its unique attributes that separates it from other programs. I was enticed by the dual degrees and the importance placed on diversity, leadership, and community service. I thought our three directors, Drs. Lapchick, Sutton, and Harrison, provided a wealth of knowledge and would not only create a plethora of opportunities but make my experience here one of a kind.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
My future career ambitions are to work in sports event planning for a professional league or team. I hope to in a few years be Director of Events and later in life own my own event planning business.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
If I could have any superpower I would like the ability to teleport because I am very impatient but like to travel and go places. I would love to be able to get to my destination in a matter of seconds!

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know?
If I had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, I would choose to interview Gail Hunter, Senior Vice President of Events and Attractions for the NBA as well as David Tutera, event planner extraordinaire. I would want to know what they love most about their jobs, to what do they attribute their success and what’s their most valuable asset in their toolbox?



Monday, April 25, 2011

Meet the Class - Wayne

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: Wayne R. Clark Jr.

Hometown: Jacksonville, FL

Undergraduate School & Major:
UCF, Business Management, DeVos Sport Business minor

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
*UCF Arena Intern
*UCF Sports Marketing Intern
*ISP Sports Intern

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

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
It is the most prestigious program of its kind in the nation. The program is focused not only on sports business but social issues, diversity and ethics which sets it aside from all of the rest.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
After finishing the DeVos program I will pursue my goal of becoming the Director of Marketing for a NBA franchise.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
I would choose “Invincibility”. This superpower supersedes any other power formed against me, therefore making me more powerful than any opponent.

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 Martin Luther King Jr. I would love to hear his thoughts on how the US has turned out as a result of all the hard work and sacrifices he and other black civil rights activists devoted years ago. It would be great to hear his visions and thoughts for our country going forward, where some racism and discrimination still exists, and goes beyond just blacks and whites.



Thursday, April 21, 2011

Meet the Class - Matt S.

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: Matthew Stull

Hometown: St. Petersburg, FL

Undergraduate School & Major:
Accounting at the University of South Florida

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
My past sports industry experiences is limited to the time I spent as a student-athlete. While at the University of South Florida I was a member of the baseball team for 4 years.

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*Graduate Assistant for the National Consortium for Academics and Sports (NCAS)

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
I chose the DeVos program because it is truly unique. It is definitely attractive because of the two master level degrees and the connection to the Orlando Magic. However no other school in the country places the amount of emphasis on community service as the program does. Being able to be a top 5 sports management program and maintain this focus on community service is truly special and something I value deeply.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
I would love to be an Athletics Director at a division one university. My background and passion for collegiate sport fuels my desire to continue to be a part of amateur sports.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
I would choose the ability to fly. Being able to soar through the air would be an amazing feeling.

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 like to interview Roberto Clemente, a truly transcendent figure whose impact went much further than the baseball diamond. I would love to sit down with the man who had a profound impact on America’s pastime. I would want to know what his opinions were on the current state of Major League Baseball.



Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Meet the Class - Matt V.

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: Matthew C. Vinson

Hometown: Niceville, FL

Undergraduate School & Major: University of Central Florida, Engineering Technology with a minor in Business Administration

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
*UCF Athletics Events and Facilities
*UCF Brighthouse Networks Stadium Premium Services

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*DeVos Website & Blog Updater
*Orlando Magic Box Office Representative
*2011 UCF Brighthouse Networks Stadium Director of Premium Services
*UCF Athletics Events and Facilities

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
I chose the DeVos Program because of the family aspect the program emphasizes with the incoming classes. When your program orientation is spent on a 10 hour bus ride to New Orleans to help rebuild someone's home, you know this program is something special. I also chose this program for the opportunity to listen to and learn from Dr. Lapchick, Dr. Harrison, and Dr. Sutton and the variety of knowledge they together contain.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
I would like to work with developing technology in the marketing department aimed at bringing fans to the actual events. I aspire to then one day become team president of a professional sports franchise.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
I would like to be able to teleport. Getting from point A to point B in no time would save me a lot of traveling and let me experience more in life.

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 love to interview Barack Obama and listen to his thoughts and his opinions, unscripted, about where this nation is heading and the trials and tribulations he has endured to get to where he is today.



Monday, April 11, 2011

Drew’s Guide to Success for Future Classes

Now that we’re almost finished with our first year of the program, I figured I’d pass along a few nuggets that I’ve picked up along the way. Keep in mind, I have not mastered all of these things, but I am still striving. With no further ado, I present “Drew’s Guide to Success for Future Classes”.

1. Load up on business casual/business professional attire.
We wear business casual to class every day and business professional whenever we have speakers, which is quite often. It caught me off guard when I first found out, but I’ve grown to appreciate it. There’s nothing like making heads turn when you’re walking around campus like you’re on your way to a board meeting. Ladies, keep it classy. Gentlemen, if you don’t know how to tie a tie, come see me immediately upon your arrival so I can laugh at you. I’m kidding. In all seriousness, any of the guys in my class would be happy to teach you.

2. Take advantage of the opportunities you will have to work with kids through community service.
We all volunteer at various places in the Orlando community, and it’s a very rewarding experience. The kids really do look up to you and look forward to seeing you every weekend. What’s better than tutoring kids and playing dodgeball and kickball? Nostalgia is a beautiful thing.

3. Find your escape.
DeVos has a way of taking over your life if you let it. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but I advise you to find an escape. Maybe you like reading books (that aren’t assigned), running, working out, going to concerts, or playing sports. Find something that takes your mind off the daily rigors of the program. I’m always amused when I learn some of the things my classmates use as escapes.

4. Learn how to work on a team.
I can’t overemphasize this. Your classmates are your teammates. Since you are part of a cohort, you are basically part of an army. Not everyone will be good at Finance or Accounting, but you may be. On the other hand, you may not be a good writer. The beauty of it is that you will be part of a team, and that is a powerful thing. Embrace it. There’s no need to try and be a superstar. We don’t hand out MVP awards.

5. Manage you time wisely.
I always thought I was pretty good at managing my time, but now I feel like I’m an expert at it. There are so many things that you will have to stay on top of as a DeVos student, but you will be better for it. Between classes, graduate assistantships (for those fortunate enough to get them), community service, work, your social life, and whatever else you deem important, you will quickly have to prioritize.

6. Find something outside of DeVos that helps develop your career.
My classmates have internships, blog for sports sites, and write articles for sports encyclopedias. Some of my other classmates work for the Orlando Magic or the Annika Foundation. Those are just a few examples. We’re all trying to better ourselves and take advantage of the golden opportunity that we’ve been given.

7. Be selective about how you spend your time.
You will find that there are about a million things you will be able to do while you are in the program. There will be countless opportunities for you to better yourself personally and professionally. However, you don’t need participate in all of them. Don’t overwhelm yourself. Take on what you can and make sure you do them well before you try to add anything else.

8. Don’t forget where you come from and those who helped you get to where you are.
It is so easy to pat ourselves on the back for what we have accomplished, but none of us got where we are alone. Personally, I wouldn’t be here without my family, friends, and mentors. I realize I couldn’t have gotten this far in life without them. I also realize that I represent my family and those back home who have sacrificed or invested in me. The responsibility to make them proud is something that drives me every day.

9. If you are uncomfortable with public speaking, buckle up.
There are so many times that we have to stand before people and introduce ourselves, do a presentation, or speak on a topic. It can be nerve-racking and uncomfortable, but eventually, you will get used to it.

10. Don’t forget to have fun while you’re here.
This is a great program and you will certainly learn a lot in the classroom. However, it is important to get out and enjoy the state of Florida and city of Orlando. It is beautiful here. The amusements parks are great and the weather is wonderful. In my short time here, I have been able to do and experience things I never thought I would. I’ve seen a space shuttle launch, gone to DisneyWorld, gone to Universal Studios, played mud volleyball, eaten things I’d never heard of, taken a tour of ESPN’s Wide World of Sports, gone to Miami, and gone to a Florida game at “The Swamp”. In a few weeks, a few of my classmates are going to Puerto Rico. Enjoy the ride. You will experience so many great things, and it will all be over before you know it. I implore you to open your minds, broaden your horizons, and embrace the diversity of your classmates.

I think that covers everything. Well, that covers almost everything. There are some things that I will leave to you’ll to learn for yourself, but if you let these 10 nuggets guide you, you will be great.

Andrew “Drew” Lilly



Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Meet the Class - Chris S.

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: Christopher D. Sarpy

Hometown: New Orleans, LA

Undergraduate School & Major: Tulane University: Undergraduate Major was Finance; also earned a Master of Accounting from Tulane Graduate School

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
*Worked for Gatorade during the NBA All-Star Weekend in New Orleans.

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*Graduate Assistant for The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport (TIDES)
*Graduate Assistant for the Hope for Stanley Alliance
*Premium Game Day Services Representative for UCF Football

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
I chose the DeVos Program because it had been repeatedly mentioned as one of the most respected programs in the nation. I was also impressed by the networking potential built through the program’s association with so many significant figures in the sports world.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
I would like to work as a business analyst for an NFL, NBA, MLS, NHL, or MLB franchise, or I would like to work in a capology position for the NFL or NBA.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
I would like to be able to teleport because it would be an unbelievable experience to travel all over the world without the concerns of cost and time.

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 to interview former NFL Commissioners Bert Bell and Pete Rozelle. I would like to hear their views regarding the modern NFL, and I would ask what it means to them to be the architects of what is now the most popular & prominent professional sports league in the US.



Monday, April 4, 2011

Meet The Class- Aaron

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: Aaron J. Gearlds

Hometown: Jackson, MS

Undergraduate School & Major: Georgetown College, MAJOR- Kinesiology and Business, MINOR- Sociology

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
*Professional Baseball Player For The Colorado Rockies

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*GA for TIDES

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
Two masters degrees and a chance to learn from the best in the industry.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
After completion of the program, I look to obtain a position in Major League Baseball working in player operations with the focus of becoming a general manager.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
I would choose the power to heal and give back life.

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 like the opportunity to interview GOD and ask how can I make the world around me better.



Thursday, March 31, 2011

Meet the Class - Demetrius

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: Demetrius A. Frazier

Hometown: Winter Haven, FL

Undergraduate School & Major: Accounting, UCF

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*GA for TIDES
*GA for NCAS

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
The DeVos Program focuses heavily on community service and diversity, which are two things that I greatly value. No other program emphasizes these two important things like the DeVos program. Also, sports was a positive outlet for me during times in my life when there was no much negativity around and I saw how sports affected people’s lives. I could not envision my life without sports.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
In the future I would ultimately love to be team president of a sports franchise and then one day blessed enough to be an owner.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
X Ray vision

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know?
My mom, and I would ask her everything about her childhood.



Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Meet the Class - Jake

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: Jake Spiak

Hometown: Watervliet, NY

Undergraduate School & Major: Ithaca College, B.S. Sport Management

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
*Ticket Sales and Services Intern, Tampa Bay Rays
*Ticket Sales Representative, Tampa Bay Rays
*Group Sales Executive, Jacksonville Jaguars.

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
Florida Citrus Sports and Nelligan Sports Marketing, Corporate Sponsorship Sales.

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
The ability to receive a duel degree is something that undoubtedly attracted me to this program. After further research, I saw that the DeVos program discussed topics and areas of sport that is hard to find in other programs. The ability to be in a diverse classroom with people from many different backgrounds is something that is very unique.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
I would like to work in professional sports in either Corporate Partnership or Marketing with the goal of becoming a Team President.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
I would choose teleportation because I would love to travel to anywhere in the world in the blink of an eye and experience different things.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know?
George Steinbrenner, and I would like to know how he dealt with the criticism of New York fans and media over his management style during his ownership of the Yankees on his way to building one of the most powerful franchises in sport.



Monday, March 28, 2011

Meet the Class - Francisco

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: Francisco Aristeguieta

Hometown: Caracas, Venezuela

Undergraduate School & Major: University of South Florida, Finance

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*Graduate Assistant for TIDES
*NASCAR Diversity Department

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
My first reason was that my undergrad mentor, Justin Miller, told me that DeVos was the place for me. I have always trusted Justin, but once I started to research the program I realized that I want to be part of this family.


Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
My future plans are to work with soccer in Europe and learn as much as I can, so I can go back to my country and apply what I would learn. I think soccer is a key to make changes in Venezuela.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
I would like to be able to change people’s mind. With this power I would try my best to change the way leaders in my country think, so they can start helping to build a better Venezuela.


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 to interview my grand father (dad’s side), Fernando Aristeguieta. He died when I was 2 years old, so I never had the chance to really know him. He was one of Venezuela's most prominent engineers, and a devote person to social changes. He built schools for low income kids, and he constantly made donations for different organizations. He was a very loved and admired person by many, and when he died the President of Venezuela at that time assisted in his burial. I know that having the chance to talk to him even for just a few minutes would help me tremendously in my career.




Friday, March 25, 2011

Meet the Class - Christie

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: Christie Cloud

Hometown: Lexington, KY

Undergraduate School & Major: University of Kentucky, Accounting & Marketing

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*Graduate Assistant for The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport
*Orlando Magic Premium Services


Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
I was originally attracted to the Program because of the dual degree option. After doing more research about the Program, I was intrigued by the idea of using sport to produce social change. I also love the fact that community service plays such a large role in the Program.


Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
To work for a professional sports organization, preferably in the NBA.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
I would choose to have the power to become invisible. It would be nice to be able to duck out of uncomfortable situations, be able to run errands without spending much time getting ready in the morning, and play pranks on people.


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 Michael Jordan. I would ask him how he stayed motivated once he achieved so many personal accomplishments and won so many championships.




Thursday, March 24, 2011

The DeVos Life

Wow!!! How time flies and what an experience this has been so far. There is no doubt in my mind that this is the TOP sports management program in the country. The atmosphere (inclusive and ever-evolving based on the current status of sports ) and approach (hands-on and in-depth) provides me the ability to create my own learning niche that corresponds with my career aspirations. The material and knowledge that I am learning can be specifically targeted and focused to what I will be doing in the future.

It feels good to know how I can be a part of the development of the sports industry in the sense of the societal impact that I can and will have in comparison to just a mere addition to the sports industry. In my opinion, this program calls for all of us to be held accountable for our actions and by the time we leave we understand how are actions can positively or negatively affect the industry and even more important society.

It is hard to imagine that I have almost completed two semesters. Two more semesters to go and off all of us go into this industry being the best equipped leaders to handle the current and future issues of this industry. I feel very blessed to have this opportunity and do not take this time in my life for granted. I'm eager to see what the future holds because I know that all of my cohorts will be change agents in sports. Can't wait!! Let the countdown begin!!!



Simone Jackson
DeVos Sports Business Management '12
University of Central Florida
Graduate Assistant - The Institute of Diversity and Ethics in Sport (TIDES)



Meet the Class - Andrew

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: Andrew H. Lilly

Hometown: Dallas, TX

Undergraduate School & Major: The University of Texas at Austin; Sport Management

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
*Championships/Events Intern at The University of Texas at Austin
*Sports Services Intern at Conference USA
*2007 & 2008 Phillips 66 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Championship Intern
*Professional Exchange Participant at Texas Christian University


Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*Graduate Assistant for The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport
*Content Marketing Associate for SportsBusinessWire.com


Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
DeVos chose me. The program entered my radar during my junior year of undergrad. I set my course for this program, and by God’s grace, I made it here. I valued the program’s emphasis on diversity, ethics, and the communities we serve.


Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
I want to work in collegiate athletics and serve as an advocate, mentor, role model, and friend to student athletes. I love social networking, writing, and tackling social issues, so I hope to implement these into my career as well.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
Let me channel my inner X-Man and go with Archangel’s superpowers. He can fly and heal others. I’m cheating by picking two superpowers. Sue 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 the one grandparent I never got to meet, and that is my maternal grandfather, Rochelle Foreman. I’d like to know kept him going every day, what life was like for him, and if I make him proud.

Do you have any closing thoughts?
Yes, I’m glad you asked. Follow me. Facebook me. E-mail me. Text me. Call me. Skype me. I pride myself on being available to those who reach out to me even if it gets me in trouble. I love my phone. I love people.



Monday, March 21, 2011

Meet the Class - Kara

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: Kara M. Adams

Hometown: San Leandro, CA /Ashburn, Va

Undergraduate School & Major: Howard University, Sport Management

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
*Intern-NASCAR Diversity Department
*Intern-NASCAR Kinetics
*Intern- Washington Wizards
*Student Worker-Howard University Athletics
*Intern-Progressive Sports and Entertainment Alliance

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*Hope For Stanley Alliance-G.A
*Will Call- Orlando Magic
*Intern- UCF Athletics (AD of External Operations)


Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
I prefer to attend the DeVos program over others because of the experience I will gain outside the classroom in addition to the classroom knowledge I will be gaining. After doing my research I understand that I will be volunteering my efforts in many ways throughout the Orlando area. Upon my visit to the campus I loved the atmosphere of the location of the campus as well as the warmth I felt upon the arrival to the DeVos office.


Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
I would like to work at the collegiate level in athletics, eventually taking on the role of Senior Woman Administrator in addition to a position that will allow me to mentor and work with our student athletes.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
If I could have any superpower I would choose the power to make everyone kind hearted :). It’s almost as cliché as world peace but I think I put my own twist on it!!! I want everyone to be happy, giving, kind hearted and as loving as I believe I am. Kind hearts=beautiful/kind world!


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 Harry Edwards. He is alive and a friend of Dr. Harrison’s so this may not be a far fetch idea! I would like to know how it feels to be a well known African American mentor to sports figures? How it feels to know you personally and single handedly affected one of the most talked about moments in sports (Tommy Smith and John Carlos-Olympics stance).



Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Meet the Class - Michael

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: Michael Kuhn

Hometown: Franklin, Tennessee

Undergraduate School & Major: University of Florida, Marketing

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
*Sales Team Member – UCF Athletics
*Intern - Bill Carr & Associates
*Intern – University of Florida Athletic Association (Marketing, Boosters, Football, and Operations)

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job:
*Graduate Assistant – The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport (TIDES)
*Box Office Representative – Orlando Magic


Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program:
DeVos stuck out to me because of the high level of ethics and morals that are built into the curriculum – not only that, but the directors practice what they preach. The industry opportunities and connections are as good as you’ll find anywhere else and the family atmosphere was something that I couldn’t pass up.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences):
I want to use my Marketing background and my interpersonal skills to work for a sports marketing agency or consulting firm. Down the line, I would love to start my own marketing firm and eventually end up back in the classroom teaching the next generation of leaders.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why?
This is a ridiculous question for 2 reasons:
1. It’s not relevant at all.
2. Anyone who lived a childhood would tell you that they want to be able to fly, so why even ask the question?!? I would choose flying - no doubt in my mind.


If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know?
Charles Barkley – because life is short, so why not laugh a little?



Meet the Class - Djuan


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: Djuan Bragg

Hometown: Pensacola, FL

Undergraduate School & Major: University of West Florida, Communications/Public Relations

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
Student Athlete (Baseball), Huntingdon College, Montgomery, AL.

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

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: I chose DeVos because it is one of the top 5 sport business management programs in the nation, led by Drs. Lapchick, Harrison and Sutton, who are the most respected and well known in the field and for the opportunity to earn an MBA concurrently with a MSBM.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences): I would like to work for a national sports franchise in public relations, community affairs or sales with a focus on upper management positions.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why? Flying: Because I love to travel but I hate to fly.

If you had the opportunity to interview anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and what would you most want to know? Muhammad Ali, because he is the only professional athlete who never let me down and I would like to know how he remained courageous and persevered in spite of failure.



Friday, March 11, 2011

Meet the Class - Cori






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: Cori Pinkett

Hometown: Atlanta, GA

Undergraduate School & Major: University of Georgia; Marketing and Sport Management Double Major

Past Sports Industry Experiences:
*University of Georgia Athletics Association Intern for Promotions
*University of Georgia Football Game Day Host
*Atlanta Falcons Logistics Intern
*Atlanta Falcons Ticket Sales and Marketing Volunteer
*2010 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament Volunteer
*ESPN College Gameday Volunteer
*2009 NCAA Gymnastics Championship Volunteer

Current G.A. or Sports Industry Related Internship/Job: Marketing Internship Coordinator for UCF's Marketing Department

Reasons for Choosing the DeVos Program: I chose the DeVos Sport Management Program for its ability to cultivate students that can tackle social issues through the avenue of sport and its inherent family atmosphere. The directors make themselves very accessible and are committed to our success.

Future Career Ambitions (1 to 2 sentences): My ultimate goal is to be the Director of Community Relations for the Atlanta Falcons or the Atlanta Hawks. I also want to start my own business that uses sport to provide a positive after school alternative for children living in poverty stricken and lower income areas.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose and why? I would have the power of duplication so that I would be able to be more than one place at the same time and never run into the issue of stretching myself too thin.

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 Martin Luther King Jr. My questions would be: At this point in time, do you feel that your dream from the “I Have a Dream” speech has been filled? If not, how much more progression needs to be made before this dream can be realized?