Welcome to the CMU Sport Management Association Conference
Our Mission
“The Mission of Central Michigan University’s Sport Management Association Conference is to empower students and professionals through engaging learning experiences and networking opportunities. Organized by CMU students for fellow students in the sport management program at CMU and surrounding schools, the conference provides a platform for attendees to connect with industry leaders, exchange knowledge, and develop essential career skills. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment of honesty, integrity, and respect, where participants can gain valuable industry insights and forge lasting professional relationships. Together, we aim to inspire the future leaders of the sport management industry and set them up for success..”
The Sport Management Association (SMA) at Central Michigan University is a student-led organization that focuses on helping students develop professionally and personally in sports management.
Friday, April 11th
1:30 pm -2:00 pm: Registration
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm: TeamWork Online/CMU Sport Management Onboarding
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Greg Dooley, Faculty Professor at the University of Michigan
Saturday, April 12th
8:00 am - 12:00 pm: Registration
8:50 am - 8:55 am: Lester Booker Jr., Head of Diversity and Inclusion Communications at Citizens Financial Group, Inc.
9:00 am - 9:30 am - Kelly Skinner, Vice President of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee
9:45 am - 10:40 am - Panel #1: Community and Recreational Sports
11:00 am - 11:55 am - Panel #2: Interscholastic Sports
1:00 pm - 1:55 pm - Panel #3: College Sports
2:00 pm - 2:55 pm Panel #4: Professional Sports
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm: Andy Miller, Executive Vice President of KLUTCH Sports Group
3:30 pm - 5:00 pm: Networking and Job Fair
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm: CMU Alumni Dinner and Networking Session
Key Speakers
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Greg Dooley
Faculty Professor at the University of Michigan
Professor Dooley brings a wealth of knowledge and industry insights, making this a must-attend session for anyone passionate about the business of sports in the ever changing world of college athletics and NIL . Professor Dooley is a college football historian at the University of Michigan, where he teaches three popular courses on athletics history, sports leadership, and NIL. His expertise and experience will provide valuable takeaways for students and professionals alike
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Lester Booker Jr.
Vice President, Head of Diversity and Inclusion Communications at Citizens Financial Group
Mr. Booker Jr. is an award-winning leader in strategic communications, corporate storytelling, and engagement, kicking off Saturday morning’s opening remarks at the 2025 Sport Management Association Conference. Lester’s impactful work in DE&I, culture, and social impact, along with his leadership across the industry, has earned him recognition as a 2024 FUEL Men “Ones to Watch” Honoree. His insights and experiences will be invaluable to all attendees looking to elevate their careers and make a lasting impact in the sports industry.
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Kelly Skinner
Vice President of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee
Acting as an anchor of high performance and world class sport for the USA for over two decades, Mr. Skinner serves as Vice President for the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee in Colorado Springs. He is a Central Michigan University alum who earned a Master of Arts degree in Sport Management.He has uses his CMU pride to guide other students and alumni to professional success. His professional talent, connections, and continued dedication to the CMU Community are just a few of the many reasons why we are honored to have him at SMAC.
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Andy Miller
Executive Vice President of KLUTCH Sports Group
Mr. Miller has negotiated over $3 billion in NBA contracts, including a $120 million deal for Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett. In addition to Garnett, some of his most notable clients include Chauncey Billups and Kristaps Porzingis. As a leader at KLUTCH Sports Group, he has helped reshape how athletes manage their careers and build their brands. KLUTCH represents top athletes in basketball, football, and more. Miller's work includes contract negotiations, marketing, and player advocacy. He has also secured major deals with companies like Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Coke, Topps, and Best Buy.
