The Sports Manager 2025

On April 17, 2025, Wichita State University's Department of Sport & Leadership Studies hosted the Kansas Sport Summit — a transformative day of discussion, networking, and career development in the world of sports.

 

Event Highlights:

Mark  attendees. Attendees

              Mark Vermillion,Opening Statements                                Attendees Seems Focused                                                           Smiling faces
              Kansas Sport Summit 

attendees from macpherson       Team SLS   Attendees

                   Attendees, Mcpherson College                                                           Team SLS                                                                     In-Learning smiles

 

 

Kansas Sport Summit 2025: A Full Day of Connection, Learning, and Growth
 
The Kansas Sport Summit 2025 was held on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the Rhatigan Student Center, 3rd Floor at Wichita State University. Hosted by the Department of Sport & Leadership Studies, the summit brought together students, professionals, and academics in sport management and related fields for a dynamic day focused on bridging the gap between theory and practice.
The day began with opening remarks from Dr. Mark Vermillion, Director of Sport & Leadership Studies, followed by remarks from Dr. Clay Stoldt, Ed.D., Associate Dean for Faculty and Staff Affairs, College of Applied Studies. Their addresses welcomed attendees and set the tone for a day filled with dialogue, insight, and opportunity.
The first session of the day was a roundtable discussion on “Women Leaders Shaping Success in the Sport Industry”. Following that, participants attended morning breakout sessions covering:
  • Navigating Trends and Challenges in Intercollegiate Athletics 
  • The Future of Sports Media and Digital Content Creation 
  • Behind the Scene: Event and Facility Management in Sports 
The summit continued with a luncheon and keynote address by Brian Davison, Founder & CEO of Sports Business Ventures, who shared insights from his career, including leadership roles at Nike and the Milwaukee Bucks.
Afternoon breakout sessions included:
 
  • Coaching Across Generations: Strategies for Success 
  • Careers in Sports Heritage, Hall of Fame, and Museums 
  • The Rise of Esports: Shaping the Future of Entertainment
The summit concluded with a Career Fair and Ignite Interview in Beggs West, where students had the opportunity to network with professionals, explore career paths, and share their resumes. The session emphasized the importance of preparation, confidence, and follow-up communication, as highlighted in the summit’s career readiness tips.
The Kansas Sport Summit 2025 provided attendees with a rich blend of interactive discussions, professional insights, and networking opportunities—contributing to the academic and career development of all who participated.
 
 
 

 

 
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Tyler Winn

Tyler Winn’s journey at Wichita State University has been shaped by perseverance and applied learning. After transferring from a community college to WSU in 2023, he quickly connected with faculty and gained valuable internships, including with the Wichita Thunder and NCAA March Madness.

Tyler is one of more than 2,100 students eligible for spring 2025 graduation. Learn more about his time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad. 

 
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Dr. Mike Ross Named Associate Dean for Faculty & Staff Affairs in the College of Applied Studies

The College of Applied Studies (CAS) at Wichita State University is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Mike Ross as the new Associate Dean for Faculty & Staff Affairs. Dr. Ross will assume his new role on June 23, 2025, following a competitive search process.

 
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