The 8th Annual Women in Sport Management Conference took place March 11, 2025 in the JSSB CAVEA Theater. Panelists (L-R): Alyssa Svalberg, Gold Crown Foundation; Jasmine Tong, Sports Business Journal; Natalie Fresher, Kroenke Sports and Entertainment; Kelly Cavalier, League One Volleyball; and Kate Bailey, The IRONMAN Group. Photo: Alyson McClaran
The Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences packed the CAVEA Theater on March 11 for the 8th Annual Women in Sport Management Conference.
Welcoming professionals from Kroenke Sports and Entertainment, The IRONMAN Group and Gold Crown Foundation among others, the event has more than doubled in size over the years and provides a crucial role for current students to connect with potential employers and gain invaluable connections, said Professor Colleen Colles, Ph.D.
“Our students come away very impressed with the accomplishments of the panelists and have a better understanding of some of the challenges their current and future female colleagues face as women working in sport,” she said. “And it’s not just for women – our male students benefit from understanding the landscape better.”
“It’s just such a wonderful event; we’re profoundly grateful for everyone involved,” she added.
All images: Alyson McClaran
8th Annual Women in Sport Management Conference
A packed house for the 8th Annual Women in Sport Management Conference in the Jordan Student Success Building's CAVEA Theater.
Exercise and Sport Science Professor Colleen Colles, Ph.D., welcomes attendees.
"While progress has been made, we know there is still work to do." CHHS Dean Hope Szypulski, DNP, speaks about how far the conference has come and the importance of networking.
From smaller beginnings at the Regency Athletic Complex, the conference has grown into a regional confluence for advancing women in sport management careers.
Kellie Cavalier of League One Volleyball answers questions.
"The impact isn’t limited to just our female students, either. Everyone in our program walks away from these conversations aware of the challenges we still face—and inspired by accomplishments to drive change." - Dean Szypulski
Lunch and breakout sessions for networking followed the panel discussion.
Kate Bailey from The IRONMAN Group with attendees at a breakout session.
Jasmine Tong of the Sport Business Journal answers a question.
MSU Denver alum Alyssa Svalberg moderated the panel discussion.
Associate Professor Kelly Evans, Ph.D., was one of the event organizers.
Now in its 8th year, the conference has established itself as a premier opportunity for professional development and networking in the Denver sport-management industry.
"Be engaged, ask questions, follow up. You never know where that single conversation might lead." - Dean Hope Szypulski's advice to attendees.