CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF SPORT MANAGEMENT The sport management program in the Elmer R. Smith College of Business & Technology is celebrating 20 years since the its inception. In just two short decades, the program has churned out dozens of successful graduates who have gone on to solid careers in the sports industry. Led by faculty members Dr. Steve Chen, Dr. Michael Hypes and Dr. Julia Hypes, the program has received national recognition. The online Master of Arts in Sport Management program was named one of the top 25 online sport management programs in the country in 2021. From careers in basketball to hockey to even NASCAR, graduates of the program continue soaring to new heights.
Winning the Race When Nathan Blum (Class of 2012) came to Morehead State, he knew he had an interest in the sports business, but his primary reason for being at MSU was his spot on the men’s tennis team. He had been recruited to play at other schools, but he was specifically looking for a school that offered a sport management program, to fulfill that other passion. Finding both at MSU was the perfect fit. The sport management program requires all its students to complete an internship that focuses on hands-on experience in the industry. Blum credits that requirement with preparing him to enter the career field after graduation, as an undergraduate internship with the Columbus Crew soccer club enhanced his professional profile. “The sports industry is so very competitive,” he said. “If you don’t come in with internship experience in the industry on your resume, you’re unlikely to land a job. The only way to separate yourself from the competition is to have that experience – and MSU provides so many opportunities for that.” After graduation, Blum got a taste of many different sports arenas – holding roles with professional basketball, baseball, soccer, and 58
MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY THE MAGAZINE: 2024
hockey programs. Where he eventually landed may not seem like the most obvious sport, but a sales position with NASCAR motorsports has been his home for the last several years. His accomplishments led to him being named a Rising Eagle Award recipient in 2021 – an award given to graduates of the last 10 years who are demonstrating early career success. He had long maintained connections with the sport management program, and specifically Chen – he regularly spoke to classes and promoted internship opportunities with NASCAR. While back on campus for his award recognition, Chen connected him with a current student, Da’Rell Henry, who was looking for a position. Blum knew MSU produced quality candidates – he had benefitted from that himself – so he connected Da’Rell with an inside sales opportunity at NASCAR. The rest ... well, keep reading.
