The latest episode of Bird Talk, the alumni-focused podcast produced by the MSU Denver Alumni Association, features an inspiring conversation with Alyssa Svalberg, a standout former student-athlete and a 2024 Alumni Volunteer of the Year award recipient. In Season 2, Episode 5, Alyssa shares her journey from volleyball star to industry leader in sport management, offering valuable insights into her career, her passion for giving back, and the challenges and opportunities women face in the sports industry.

Alyssa Svalberg, a Colorado native, played volleyball at MSU Denver from 2014 to 2018, where her academic and athletic achievements earned her the title of Student of the Year in 2018. After graduating, she worked as a Project Manager for Special Olympics, where her dedication to sports and community development took root. In 2020, Alyssa joined the Gold Crown Foundation, a Denver-based nonprofit, as the manager of the Gold Crown Field House and Keli McGregor Athletic Complexes. There, she oversees event coordination, facility operations, and risk management, while leading a team of 35 employees – many of which are MSU Denver students.

In 2022, Alyssa was honored with MSU Denver’s 10 Under 10 award, which recognizes alumni who have made significant contributions within 10 years of graduating. Alyssa continues to be an active member of the MSU Denver community, serving on the Sport Management Advisory Board and the Alumni Association Board of Directors. Her exceptional volunteer work earned her the prestigious title of Alumni Volunteer of the Year in 2024.

In this episode, host Jamie Hurst ’21 and Alyssa “squawk” about the impactful work of the Gold Crown Foundation, which fosters youth development through sports and education. Alyssa also opens up about the complexities of running athletic programs, finding her voice as a woman in the sports world, and her close-knit family who played a significant role in shaping her career and values.

“Alyssa’s story is a testament to the power of dedication and community involvement,” said Jamie, host of Bird Talk. “She’s a true leader both in the world of sport management and within the MSU Denver alumni community. Our listeners will be inspired by her journey and her ongoing work to give back.”

The episode is now available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms.

About Bird Talk Podcast

Bird Talk is a podcast that highlights the remarkable careers and lives of MSU Denver alumni. Each episode dives into the unique experiences, challenges, and successes of our graduates, offering inspiration and insight for listeners at all stages of life and career.

About MSU Denver

Metropolitan State University of Denver is a leader in higher education, known for its affordability, diversity, and career-oriented programs. With a strong focus on community engagement, MSU Denver prepares students for success through hands-on learning and a commitment to excellence.