FLORIDA ATLANTIC MBA IN SPORT MANAGEMENT 2026 NEWSLETTER
MBA SPORT 2025 NEWSLETTER
ABOUT THE PROGRAM The MBA Sport Management program at Florida Atlantic University is a prestigious, industry-focused graduate program designed to prepare the next generation of leaders in the sports industry.
TABLE OF CONTENTS MBA Sport News • 2-4 Director's Message • 5 Mission & Vision • 6-7 Faculty Spotlights • 8-9
Our AACSB-accredited MBA program combines rigorous academic coursework with real-world industry experience, offering students a comprehensive education that bridges the gap between theory and practice.
Alumni Testimonials • 10 Student Testimonials • 11 Spotlights • 12 Curriculum • 13 Application Process • 14
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MBA SPORT NEWS MBA Sport Management Students Gain Hands-On Experience at Major Championship Event A cohort of 16 students recently got an inside look at the business operations of a National Football Championship Game as part of Florida Atlantic University’s College of Business MBA in Sport Management Program. The opportunity came from Fiur Productions, a global entertainment production company, where students partnered with the company to work on the production side of the championship game between the Miami Hurricanes and Indiana University at Hard Rock Stadium. Students gained hands-on experience with the staging, marketing, business and operations side of the sports business.
“It was such an awesome opportunity to connect with industry pros and work alongside my classmates who share the same career goals as I do,” said Julia Vargo, first-year student in the program. “Working the CFP National Championship game was an incredible experience and is easily one of the highlights of my time so far at FAU.” The selected students worked as part of the pre-game setup team. They focused on staging operations for the post-game trophy ceremony, and sat in on production meetings to see the depth of planning, communication and teamwork that goes into successful pre- and postgame ceremonies. “It definitely gave me a new appreciation for how much coordination happens behind the scenes and continued my interest in pursuing this side of sports as a career,” Vargo said. “I learned how important clear communication is in fast-paced event environments and how adaptable you have to be when there are so many moving pieces.”
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MBA SPORT NEWS Opportunities like this are built into the MBA in Sport Management program curriculum. Ranked No. 10 worldwide by Sports Business, the program emphasizes rigorous academic coursework focusing on sports law, sports marketing and business operations, combined with hands-on industry experience to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the competitive nature in the world of sports business. “Fiur Productions was honored to create a unique, interactive educational experience for students from the FAU MBA in Sport Management program. We were thrilled to work with such a fine group of dedicated individuals,” said Michael T. Fiur, president and executive producer of Fiur Productions.
Students are required to work in the sports industry as part of the program and partnerships with companies such as these provide students with the tools to succeed in the competitive nature of sport business. "As an FAU MBA Sport alum, hiring the students for our Event Presentation Team for the CFP National Championship was a fulfilling way to support a program that was so important to my career. We hope to partner again on future events,” said Todd Noonan, senior producer and alum of the MBA in Sport Management program.
For student Sveva Brugnoli, the operations and sports marketing classes she took prepared her well for the fast-paced nature of the operations behind game ceremonies, giving her practical knowledge to apply to a real-world scenario.
”Seeing how these areas connected in a realworld setting showed me how classroom knowledge directly translates into successful event execution,” Brugnoli said. “I gained insight into how entertainment elements are used strategically to enhance the brand of the championship game and create memorable moments for fans and television audiences.” Overall, the experience is a good demonstration of how well the students can handle large-scale events, said Daniel Cornely, Ph.D., director of the MBA in Sport Management Program. “This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to learn the inner workings of a national sports game,” Cornely said. “Our focus is ensuring students remain competitive and knowledgeable when they enter the workforce after graduation and events such as this help reinforce their knowledge.”
MBA MBA SPORT SPORT NEWS NEWS
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FAU’s MBA in Sport Management Ranks Third in Global Rankings Florida Atlantic University’s MBA in Sport Management program online ranked No. 3 worldwide for 2025, according to SportBusiness, a London-based sports intelligence and analysis firm. The program also ranked No.10 worldwide for overall programs. “We are proud to once again be recognized for the strength and rigor of our MBA in Sport Management program,” said Daniel Cornely, Ph.D., program director of the sport management program in FAU’s Executive Education programs in the College of Business. “The success of our program is fostered by phenomenal practitioners in the sport management field, faculty support, and continuous program innovation.”
FAU’s MBA in Sport Management program has gained momentum over the past few years, with enrollment increasing by 120% since 2022. The program earned a perfect score of 100 in the mentorship category in the SportBusiness ranking, standing out for the exceptional student support provided in the program. It also received No. 8 in Career Advancement in the SportBusiness ranking, a testament to the program’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for successful careers and its ability to mentor students into future positions. The 2025 SportBusiness ranking follows the 2025 U.S. News & World Report ranking of Best Online MBA programs offering Sports Business. The Online MBA Sport Management program was listed as No. 8 in the nation and No.5 among public universities offering a Sport Business Online MBA. “We are very pleased that the College of Business' MBA in Sport Management program has once again broken the top 10 in worldwide rankings,” said Daniel Gropper, Ph.D., dean of FAU’s College of Business and Kaye Family professor. “The rigorous curriculum, combined with handson experience through our extensive network of connections, offers our students an excellent background to launch careers in a competitive global industry.” The 14th annual rankings are based on two surveys, one conducted by course officials and another by alumni who graduated years prior to the ranking publication date. The rankings provide the most comprehensive guide to the world’s leading sports business programs for the year and are based on data-led analysis examining 30 criteria from course quality to career advancement opportunities.
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DIRECTOR DR. DAN CORNELY Dan Cornely leads the MBA in Sport Management program at Florida Atlantic University. Before this role, he headed the Career Services department for graduate business students at FAU, creating a pipeline of companies hiring FAU students. With a background in college athletics and sports marketing, Dan held positions in athletic departments at Hanover College, Florida International University, Defiance College, and Next College Student Athlete (NCSA-Team Edition), where he developed a groundbreaking recruiting platform. He also served as Director of Partnerships and Recruiting Specialist at NCSA/IMG Academy, securing global partnerships and generating revenue. As a college football coach at Defiance College, he was a recruiting coordinator and special teams coordinator. Dan is dedicated to guiding students in their career paths in sport business. He holds a Master of Arts in Education from Defiance College and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Hanover College, where he was an All-Conference football player and team captain. He holds a Ph.D. in Leadership fom Florida Atlantic and teaches sport management courses as an adjunct professor. Dan serves as an ex-officio board member of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission and Lou Groza award. “The Florida Atlantic MBA in Sport Management program stands out for its hands-on approach, emphasizing practical experience essential for success in the sports industry. One of its unique strengths is its strong connections within the South Florida sports community, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and insights from professionals.” “Students are required to work during their studies, enhancing their learning and preparing them for the industry's demands. This experience allows them to apply theoretical knowledge in realworld settings, develop key skills, and gain a competitive edge in the job market.” “Overall, the program is committed to student growth and success by leveraging community ties and prioritizing experiential learning, ensuring students are well-positioned for thriving careers in sports management.”
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OUR GROWING PROGRAM BY RILEY ENNIS
Since joining the MBA Sport Management team in 2022, enrollment has increased by 120%. Developing strategic relationships with students, and ensuring alignment wiht the Sports Management program we have seen great success when our students enter and graduate the program. Our student population is full of devoted and hard-working individuals with great aspirations to succeed in the sport industry. With that being said, 94% of our students obtain a position in the sport industry. As a staff we support and work closely with our students to ensure they are on the right path for future opportunities and success.
MISSION & VISION The mission of our MBA Sport Management program is the training and development of individuals who possess the ability to undertake and complete the rigors of a highquality, graduate-level business program, for a career in the management and administration of the sport industry. Practical application of learned classroom knowledge is required and will be attained through internship and practical experiences during and after the students’ classroom tenure at FAU.
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TEAMWORK ONLINE AMBASSADOR & GRADUATE ASSISTANT SVEVA BRUGNOLI
Sveva is a former NCAA Division I studentathlete, a current MBA Sport Program student, and the Graduate Assistant for the MBA in Sport Program, with a strong background in sport management, exercise science, and leadership. A team captain at the University of Evansville, she has combined academic excellence with hands-on experience in athletics, performance analysis, and operations. She serves as a Teamwork Online Ambassador for the Sport Management program, helping connect students with industry opportunities while bringing a global perspective to support our students.
A MESSAGE FROM THE TEAM The MBA in Sport Management program at FAU has been preparing future leaders in the industry since 2000. The program is designed to develop skilled management and executive professionals in areas such as sport, entertainment, and public assembly management. A key strength of the program is its balance between classroom instruction and hands-on industry experience, giving students both the knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed. This approach not only enhances learning but also makes graduates highly appealing to potential employers. Students in the FAU MBA in Sport Management program should expect to commit to hard work, dedication, and motivation throughout their studies. While the program is demanding, it provides valuable experience, professional connections, and career opportunities that make the effort worthwhile in the long run.
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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
KEN ELDER Ken Elder, a Florida Atlantic University graduate, has spent more than 30 years in the sports business industry, building a distinguished career with leadership roles in major events like multiple Super Bowls and the College Football Playoff, where he drove significant sponsorship revenue and oversaw largescale marketing initiatives. He later founded Elder Sports Marketing, advised major sports organizations, and contributed as an educator, earning recognition for his expertise in sponsorship development, event execution, and mentoring future professionals.
Ken Elder earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Florida Atlantic University in 1986 and later received his Master of Science in Sports Administration from St. Thomas University in 1988. His passion for sports business began early, leading him into collegiate athletics and sports media, where he developed a strong foundation in sponsorship sales, marketing, and event operations. Elder’s career spans more than three decades and includes leadership roles across some of the most prominent events in sports. He has been instrumental in the success of multiple Super Bowl Host Committees, including Super Bowl XLI, Super Bowl XLIII, and Super Bowl XLIV, where he led corporate sponsorship campaigns that generated millions in revenue and consistently exceeded financial goals. He also played a key role in the College Football Playoff as Senior Director of Marketing & Strategic Partnerships, overseeing premium hospitality, sponsorship sales, and large-scale fan events tied to the national championship. In 2010, Elder founded Elder Sports Marketing, a consulting firm specializing in sponsorship sales, event management, and strategic partnerships. Through his firm, he has worked with major organizations including the Shriners Hospitals for Children sports division, the College Football Playoff National Championship, and the TransPerfect Music City Bowl. His work has focused on developing innovative sponsorship strategies, executing high-profile events, and creating meaningful brand partnerships. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Elder has made a lasting impact in the classroom. He served as an Adjunct Professor in the MBA Sport Management program at Florida Atlantic University from 2006 to 2013, teaching courses in Sport Marketing and the Administration of Intercollegiate Athletics, for which he developed the full curriculum. He has also taught at Trinity International University and University of North Carolina Asheville, mentoring students and helping many secure internships and careers in the sports industry. Elder remains highly regarded for his expertise in sponsorship development, revenue generation, and event execution. His career reflects a consistent ability to build successful partnerships, lead large-scale initiatives, and mentor the next generation of sports business professionals.
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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
ANTHONY HILLIARD Professor Hilliard has a very unique and diverse background in the areas of sports, law, and business, with a direct focus on the day-to-day leadership, operational elements, organizational strategy, administration, and management of companies. He had the great privilege of studying under the direction and mentorship of Robert C. Berry "The Grandfather of Sports Law" at Boston College Law School. Anthony has over 25 years of domestic and international experience in the sports industry as an agent, sports business executive, and consultant. He guided the careers and negotiated intricate employment and endorsement agreements on behalf of professional athletes in the NBA, FIBA, NFL, CFL, MLB, FIFA, MLS, USL, WTA and the LPGA. His unique international practice enabled him to represent world-class athletes who participated in leagues located in Europe, North & South America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. He is a professor of Sports Law and Global Sport Business at Keiser University and Florida Atlantic University’s MBA in Sport Management program. He serves as a University of Iowa Sport and Recreation Management Program Advisory Board member, a University of Miami School of Law - Entertainment, Art, and Sports Law (EASL) LL.M program Practicum Supervisor, and lectures on various sports law and sports business topics at prominent universities, law schools, and MBA programs across the country. Anthony also serves as a business strategist and consultant for athletes, coaches, universities, charitable foundations, and sport organizations. Over the years, he has developed venerable relationships with international and domestic sports business, corporate, legal, and higher education professionals, legendary coaches, award winning journalists, marketing executives, franchise owners, league, federation, national team, and olympic committee officials worldwide. Professor Hilliard received his Juris Doctor degree from Boston College Law School, and earned a Bachelors of Arts degree in Government from Dartmouth College.
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ALUMNI TESTIMONIALS
Jenny Alvarez Senior VP of Brand Chief Creative Officer for Miami Heat "The MBA Sport program really developed me as a professional by exposing me to real-world projects and experiences. With that knowledge, I was able to think more strategically and innovatively, which helped me in my previous role and current role with the Miami Dolphins. I made a lot of great connections throughout the program that helped me get to where I am today."
Katherine Milliken Vice President, Miami Dolphins, Miami Open and Formula One Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix “The MBA Sport program had a meaningful impact on both my career path and my professional development. Beyond strengthening my business and leadership skills, the program gave me hands-on experiences and real-world perspectives that I was able to apply immediately in my work. What stood out most was the access to faculty and industry professionals who were deeply invested in our growth, as well as the strong sense of community among classmates and alumni. Without FAU and the connections it created for me to get my foot in the door as a student, I wouldn't be where I am now in my career.”
Briana Sanchez Senior Director, Partnership Development for Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium “The MBA Sport Management program at FAU played a defining role in shaping my career, and I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without it. The program opened the door for me to get my start with the Miami Dolphins, thanks to the strong relationship FAU has built with the organization. My first part‑time boss, Katherine Milliken—also an FAU MBA Sport Management alum —recommended me to the hiring manager who ultimately gave me my first full‑time opportunity and launched my career in sports. I learned so much in the classroom, but what impacted me most were the connections I made, and the real‑world experiences the program exposed me to. Those relationships and hands‑on moments continue to influence my professional growth every day.”
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CURRENT STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
Julia Vargo Intern at the CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches “My experience in FAU’s MBA in Sport Management program has been incredible and has already opened so many doors for me. Through the program, I’ve gotten to work the CFP National Championship and secured my first sport internship at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. I moved here by myself from Pennsylvania for the program and haven’t looked back, especially because of how supportive the professors are and the great relationships I’ve built with my classmates. I’m so excited to continue growing in my second year.”
Vincent Romano Staff Accountant at Florida Panthers “FAU's MBA in Sport Management program has been a unique learning experience for me. I really appreciate how each professor and guest speaker share so much of their valuable real-world experiences with their classes. With most professors being currently involved in some aspect of the sports and business field, it is great to be able to learn emerging trends and new technologies being utilized in real time in addition to foundational concepts. Learning from these professors has allowed me to shape my thinking in a more analytical and creative way. As a result, I have been able to be more decisive, create more process efficiencies, and bring new ideas to my team.”
Megan Hogate Corporate Partnerships Intern at F1 Miami Grand Prix “FAU's MBA in Sport Management program has helped me successfully position myself academically and professionally. I started the program online which allowed me to be a full-time student-athlete and prepare myself for the future ahead. With my athletic career in the past, I have been able to take advantage of this program's flexibility for online and inperson curriculum. In the spring, I was able to switch my classes to inperson and work full-time as an intern with the Miami Grand Prix. Now, I am back online and working in Denver with the Broncos. The set up of this program keeps the door open to so many opportunities and allows me to apply what I am learning in the classroom in real time.”
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STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS Karlee Piccola, Rocio Enriquez Figueroa, Mark Jansheski
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS Todd Noonan, Carolyn Scherpe, Thiago Motta, Stephen Minichiello, Antonio Cardone, Ryan Johnson
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THE CURRICULUM Sport Management Core Courses (2 credits) SPB 6815
Managing the Sport Enterprise
SPB 6406
Sport Law
SPB 6716
Sport Marketing
SPB 5817
Financial Aspects of Sport Management
SPB 6706
Sport Analytics Elective Choices
SPB 6306
Management of Sport, Entertainment, and Convention Venues
SPB 6106
Management and Administration of Intercollegiate Athletics
SPB 6940
Internship in Sport Management
Core MBA Curriculum Courses (3 credits) ACG 6027
Financial Accounting Concepts
GEB 6217
Communication Skills for Business Professionals
GEB 6931
Leadership and Executive Forum
MAN 6937
Global Environment of Management
ACG 6315
Advanced Analysis of Accounting Data
MAR 6815
Marketing Management in a Global Environment
FIN 6806
Advanced Financial Management
ISM 6026
Management of Information Systems and Technology
MAN 6501
Operations Management
MAN 6296
Leadership and Organizations
MAN 6721
Global Management Strategy and Policy
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APPLICATION PROCESS REQUIREMENTS
3.0 Undergraduate GPA 4 Years of Work Experience (Preferred) ADMISSIONS
LINKS Program Webpage
On Campus Application
Online Application
Fill out departmental application found on our website. - Upload the following documents with your application: a. Current Resume Must include upper-division GPA (last 60 credits). b. Personal Essay Typed, double-spaced, 2 pages minimum. c. Unofficial Transcripts This step is not required for FAU graduates. More information regarding the application process can be found at the link in the side panel.
DEADLINES Fall 2026: Early July Spring 2027: Early December