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

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.

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.

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.

Facility Director of Morey Courts Recreation Center

As the Facility Director at Morey Courts Recreation Center, Amy Bunting oversees facility operations, community programming, and recreational sports initiatives to ensure a memorable experience for visitors.

Assistant Director of Facilities at Eastern Michigan

As the Assistant Director of Facilities at Eastern Michigan University, Don Gillette manages athletic facility and event operations, helping to create a safe and efficient environment for EMU’s student-athletes and fans.

Director of Recreational Sports and Fitness Services at Michigan State University

As the Director of Recreational Sports and Fitness Services at MSU, Marcus Jackson specializes in campus recreation, helping shape the student experience in athletics.

Parks and Recreation Superintendent of the City of Southfield, Michigan

As the Superintendent of Southfield Parks and Recreation, Kiam Jones is dedicated to enhancing community engagement and recreational programs and overseeing park facilities.

Athletic Director of Everett High School

former Division I athlete with over 10 years of coaching and recruiting experience. She now serves as the Athletic Director at Everett High School, leading high-level athletic programs with a focus on excellence and student-athlete development.

Athletic Director/Head Football Coach at Mt. Pleasant High School

As the Athletic Director and Head Football Coach at Mt. Pleasant High School, Jason McIntyre is dedicated to developing student-athletes and leading successfull athletic programs on and off the field.

Athletic Directors at Bay City Western (Retired)

As the retired Athletic Director of Bay City Western High School, where he served for 16 years, Michael Thayer was instrumental in supporting student-athlete development and leaving a lasting impact on the school’s sports community.

Executive Director of The Michigan High School Athletic Association

As the Executive Director of MHSAA, Mark Uyl oversees the administration of Michigan high school sports, focusing on policy, compliance, and student-athlete advocacy.

Zyzelewski Family Vice President/Director of Athletics at Central Michigan University

As the Athletic Director at CMU, Amy Folan has dedicated her career to collegiate athletics leadership, student athlete developlent and program growth, making her a trailblazer as a women in sports leadership.

Assistant Director of Special Events at Northwestern University

As the Assistant Director of Special Events at Northwestern University, Grace Gagliardi leads the planning and execution of high-profile athletic events and donor engagement experiences.

Associate Athletics Director, Strategic Marketing at the University of Alabama

As the Associate Athletics Director of Strategic Marketing at the University of Alabama, Dan Heck elevates the Crimson Tide through focus on brand strategy, fan engagement, and marketing initiatives.

General Manager of Central Michigan Football

As the General Manager for CMU Football, Ayden Opfer is responsible for overseeing team operations, logistics, and day-to-day management, playing a vital role in the success and organization of the CMU football program.

Head Volleyball Coach at Central Michigan University

As a former standout athlete at Purdue University and now Head Volleyball Coach at CMU, Arielle Wilson brings experience from both elite competition and coaching at the collegiate level.

Group Sales & Service Manager for the United Shore Professional Baseball League

As the Group Sales & Service Manager at the USPBL, David Acord specializes in ticket sales, fan engagement, and business operations within professional baseball.

General Manager of the Lansing Lugnuts

As the General Manager of the Lansing Lugnuts, Zac Clark plays a key role in enhancing the game-day experience, team operations, business development, fan engagement, and community involvement for the organization.

Senior Manager of Operations at Intersport

As the Senior Manager of Operations at Intersport, Carter McCullen plays a key role in event execution, logistics, and sponsorship activation for major sporting events.

President and General Manager for the Great Lakes Loons

Mundhenk has 21 years of experience in professional sports, with all but two being in Minor League Baseball. He joined the Loons in 2006 as the Assistant GM of Marketing & Promotions and has held a number of leadership roles with the Loons.

Events Coordinator for the Detroit Lions

As the Events Coordinator for the Detroit Lions, Logan Novac is involved in game day production, fan engagement, and large-scale event planning.

As the Marketing Events Coordinator for the Detroit Lions

Faelan O’Brian specializes in brand activations, fan experiences, and promotional events that connect the team with its community.