The Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (PRTM) Blog

Megan Hazzard, a Clemson University graduate with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, currently serves as the Managing Director of the Henrico Sports & Entertainment Authority in Henrico, Virginia.

What does your position involve on a daily basis? 

We are always working on pre-planning for upcoming events but also working on long-term planning for our large-scale events. My job entails business development so we constantly review requests for proposals, conduct site visits, attend conferences, and bid on new events to bring to Henrico County, whether that is an indoor event at the new Henrico Sports & Events or an outdoor tournament at one of our parks. One of my favorite events that we bid on several years ago which we have now extended through 2029 is the Atlantic 10 Women’s Basketball Championship that is hosted here every March.   

The NCAA bid portal opens later this year, so we will work with our Richmond Region Tourism partners to review our opportunities and compile proposals to hopefully bring NCAA events to the region in future years.  Last cycle we won the 2027 DIII Volleyball National Championship and will look to bid on more events for this next cycle. I work closely with several different departments and external stakeholders when hosting these events, so meetings and communication are key to hosting successful events.   

How did your early experience in event sales and operations prepare you for executive leadership?

Building my career through event sales and operations truly paved the way to where I am today. Those early roles gave me hands-on experience and helped me build invaluable relationships that continue to shape my career. The sports community is incredibly tight-knit; we rely on one another, support one another, and reputation matters. Working on the sales side taught me that relationships are everything in this business. It reinforced the importance of trust, follow-through, and doing exactly what you say you’re going to do.

On the operations side, I learned the value of hard work and long hours. Events are not a 9-to-5 business, but they are the “fun” business. Behind every successful event is a team putting in time, solving problems in real time, and making sure the experience feels seamless for everyone else. This industry requires grit, flexibility, and passion. It has absolutely been hard work, but I’ve always loved what I do. That passion makes the long hours worthwhile and makes showing up every day easy. 

How do sporting events and entertainment venues create economic and social impact for a community?

From an economic standpoint, events drive hotel stays, restaurant traffic, retail spending, and transportation usage which all funnel taxes back into our county. Visitors fill our hotels, dine in our restaurants, and explore our local attractions, creating direct spending that supports small businesses and generates tax revenue that benefits the broader community. Those hotel taxes and meal taxes help pay for improvements to public schools and public safety buildings. Large tournaments and multi-day competitions are especially powerful because they bring repeat visitation and introduce new audiences to the region. 

But social impacts are just as important. Events create energy. They give residents something to rally around. They provide opportunities for young athletes to compete at high levels without leaving their hometown. Sporting events also introduce people to neighborhoods and venues they may not otherwise visit, increasing awareness and engagement across the region. When done strategically, sports tourism isn’t just about a weekend event. It’s about long-term destination positioning, workforce development, and building a community people are proud to live in.

What are the biggest challenges and rewards of developing large-scale facilities?

The biggest challenges have included aligning multiple stakeholders with different priorities, managing budgets and timelines in an evolving economic environment, ensuring the facility is designed for long-term flexibility, and balancing community expectations with operational realities. We have several public private partnerships in our county which have been hard work, but they are big success stories for us. 

With projects like the Henrico Sports & Events Center and the future Best Products Arena/Mixed Use Development we are currently working on, you’re not just building a structure. You’re building a long-term asset that must serve athletes, promoters, residents, and visitors for decades. Seeing a facility to come to life and immediately generate economic impact, create jobs, attract national events, and host community gatherings is incredibly fulfilling. They drive hotel growth, retail expansion, and increased national visibility.

What advice would you give Clemson PRTM students interested in sports tourism or event management?

Say yes early and often. Internships, game-day operations, volunteer roles, and facility tours all provide valuable hands-on experience. Take every opportunity to get involved. This industry is relationship-driven and experience-driven. Say yes to meeting new people, going to networking events, and sitting on committees.  You never know when someone you crossed paths with can help open doors for you in the future. 

Learn the business side of sports. Sports tourism and venue management aren’t just about the excitement of game day, they’re about contracts, budgeting, operations, sponsorship sales, logistics, and community relations. Understanding the financial and strategic side will set you apart.  It’s a fun business to be in, but if you want to grow in your position, you have to learn all the facets of the business. 

Akiebia Hicks, a Clemson University graduate with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, currently serves as the Wildlife Biologist at Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

What inspired you to pursue a PhD in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management?

My decision to pursue a PhD grew directly out of my time working as a National Park Ranger. Being inside the agency every day gave me a close view of how organizational culture, leadership, and informal practices shape employee experiences. I saw highly dedicated and talented staff who cared deeply about the mission but were often navigating limited support, unclear promotion pathways, and inequities that affected morale and retention. Those experiences made me want to move beyond observation and actually research what was happening within the organization.

How did serving as a Recreational Policy Instructor of Record shape your leadership?

Teaching recreation policy required constantly connecting theory to real-world practice. Rather than treating policy as abstract, I focused on how legislation and governance structures affect access, employee working conditions, and community outcomes. That experience reinforced that policy is only effective when it is implemented thoughtfully and communicated clearly to the public. It shaped how I approach leadership today by prioritizing transparency, stakeholder engagement, and practical application over purely theoretical solutions.

What did your role as a Wildlife Biologist involve?

In my current role, I work on wildlife management efforts related to species such as black bears, coyotes, and bobcats, with a strong emphasis on the human dimensions of conservation. A large portion of my work involves surveying the public to understand perceptions, concerns, and knowledge gaps related to black bears and human wildlife interactions. What I find most meaningful is improving public understanding of wildlife and expanding education efforts to underrepresented communities so conservation knowledge is more accessible and inclusive.

What project are you most proud of, and why?

The project I am most proud of is leading the development and statewide rollout of the All Terrain Wheelchair Program in CT State Parks. The goal was not simply to provide equipment but to fundamentally improve access so individuals with mobility disabilities could meaningfully experience natural spaces. I am also proud of leading the ParkConneCT, a transportation program that directly addressed access by connecting underserved communities to parks and outdoor recreation opportunities.

What advice would you give students hoping to work in environmental agencies or policy?

I would encourage students to gain experience in both field-based roles and organizational or planning-focused positions. Understanding ecosystems is critical, but so is understanding how agencies operate and engage with communities. There is also real value in moving across disciplines. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and explore opportunities that stretch your skills and perspectives. Strong skills in research, communication, and public engagement will continue to be essential as environmental agencies rely more on interdisciplinary approaches.

Mackenzie Dawes, a Clemson University graduate with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, currently serves as the Assistant Director of Outdoor Adventures at Furman University Campus Recreation.

What inspired you to pursue an MS degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson?

I’d worked in the summer camp field for five years when I began my master’s at Clemson. Throughout that time, I was always interested in why summer camps feel like a special place for staff to belong. I was able to combine my interest in belongingness with my lived experience as a type 1 diabetic to explore the sense of belonging that emerging adults with T1D experience when working at a summer camp focused solely on T1D.

How did leading backpacking and kayaking trips at Clemson prepare you for your role at Furman?

Leading the backpacking, kayaking, SUP, and team building courses helped me in my current role because I’m now providing guidance to students at Furman to ensure all of their trips run smoothly. It also provided me with communication skills and leadership skills that help me when providing guidance to my staff and co workers.

What are your main responsibilities as Assistant Director of Aquatics and Outdoor Adventures at Furman?

My main responsibilities as the Assistant Director include advising the Furman University Outdoors Club and planning for the climbing wall opening at the end of summer 2026. When the climbing wall opens, I will be responsible for staffing, training, setting, and maintaining the wall. Prior to the pools closing on December 10, I was responsible for staff scheduling, conducting in-service trainings, and ensuring the pools remained operational.

How do you help students step outside their comfort zones?

I encourage them to participate in campus-wide events and initiatives. One of my priorities when entering this role was to build a more cohesive lifeguard team. We achieved this by conducting more one-on-one meetings with each guard, facilitating in-service events, and creating a streamlined communication system. In outdoor programming, I encourage the team to explore new areas when planning trips, allowing them to experience more of the natural surroundings. We have also established clearer “guardrails” for the outdoor club, helping members feel more comfortable reporting incidents, managing groups, and leading confidently with CRW support.

What advice would you give PRTM students interested in a career in outdoor adventure or campus recreation?

For any current student interested in working in outdoor recreation or campus recreation in higher education, I encourage them to keep trying new things to expand their worldviews. Whether guiding or working in a role like mine, it’s important to connect with others and gain hands-on experience, which helps you communicate more effectively with participants. Know your “why.” My why has always been to create a sense of belonging and to ensure that anyone, regardless of their background or experiences, feels comfortable participating in a program or trying a new activity. Personal and meaningful connections are the key to building a lasting community that provides enriching experiences for both staff and participants.

Go Tigers! 

Kaitlyn Hanson, a Clemson University graduate with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, currently serves as the Senior Organizer Operations Manager at Freeman Company, a global brand experience company that provides integrated services for events, trade shows and exhibits.

What inspired you to pursue a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson?

After finishing my freshman year, I had no idea what direction to take with my major. I remember sitting down with my advisor and listing all the things I didn’t enjoy, but when it came to what I did like, I struggled. Then I started naming the things I was good at: talking, staying organized, making lists, entertaining…you get the idea. That’s when my advisor said, “PRTM is the place for you.” She explained that this major would let me explore a variety of opportunities while putting my strengths to the test. And she was right! I’ve been able to apply the skills I learned at Clemson in my career.

How did your Clemson experience prepare you for your career in event operations and hospitality?

One of the best parts of being a PRTM student was the variety of classes offered. Internships were another highlight. I completed three during my time at Clemson: Artisphere, Greenville’s annual art festival; Euphoria, the city’s food, wine, and music festival; and Meals on Wheels of Greenville, where I assisted with events like the Sweetheart Charity Ball and the Meals for Wheels cycling event. These experiences not only gave me practical skills but also connected me with incredible people in the Greenville community. In fact, I later became the Resource Coordinator at Meals on Wheels, a direct result of those connections. Internships were more than a requirement; they were a launchpad, helping me find my direction and preparing me for the real world.

Can you describe your current role as Senior Organizer Operations Manager?

My current role is a little bit of everything, which makes it exciting! Every day looks different, keeping things fun and interesting. I’m part of Freeman’s Organizer Operations team, created just three years ago, where we’re the operational experts behind the scenes. My specialty is EAC management. For context, an EAC (Exhibitor Appointed Contractor) is a third-party vendor hired to perform services onsite at an event on behalf of an exhibitor. I work with clients to build custom portals that collect this information, then partner with exhibitors and EACs to ensure they meet every requirement to access the show floor safely.

Another big part of my role is sponsorship fulfillment management, managing deadlines, expectations, and asset collection so sponsors get maximum value for their investment. Our team also handles full conference planning, speaker management, exhibitor booth reviews, and much more. Although the role involves travel, getting to explore new cities across the country and sometimes the world makes it even more rewarding. Every day is a new challenge, and being part of this team has been an incredible opportunity to learn and grow in this industry.

What have your experiences at major trade shows and events taught you?

Being part of major trade shows, exhibits, and events is both exhilarating and eye-opening. These environments are fast-paced, high-stakes, and full of moving parts, which means adaptability is key. No two days are the same, and that teaches you to think on your feet, solve problems quickly, and stay calm under pressure. What I’ve learned most is the importance of planning and communication. When you’re working on large-scale events, every detail matters, because one small oversight can cause a huge ripple. It’s all about collaboration, anticipating challenges, and having contingency plans ready.

These experiences also reinforce the value of relationship-building. I’ve learned it’s important to lean on your team, tapping into their different strengths and learning from those around you. At the end of the day, working in these environments teaches resilience, creativity, and the ability to deliver excellence under pressure. I am thankful to have been a part of several well-known events, including CES, World of Concrete, IACP, RE+, AAD Annual Meeting, and many more!

What advice would you give current PRTM students who are interested in event operations?

My biggest advice? Keep an open mind. Don’t just take the “easy” classes; choose the ones that challenge you. Those are the courses that will stick with you and shape your career. And here’s the game-changer: DO THE INTERNSHIP. Even if it’s unpaid or the hours are weird, it’s worth it. Hands-on experience and real connections will take you further than any textbook. I still use skills I learned during my college internships every day. The job market can feel overwhelming, but experience gives you confidence and an edge. When you can talk about real projects, you are not just another applicant; you are ten steps ahead. So, challenge yourself and say yes to opportunities. Your future self will thank you.

Meaghan DeNino Passanante, a Clemson University graduate with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, currently serves as Assistant Director of Operations for Premium at Levy Restaurants for Bank of America Stadium, home to the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC.

What inspired you to pursue a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson?

I’ve always had a passion for food and originally thought I’d build a career in nutrition or food science. After spending my first two years as a Food Science major, I realized that I was craving more connection with people, the energy, emotion, and experience that come with hospitality. That’s when I discovered Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management. PRTM gave me a new lens to view the hospitality world through tourism and guest experience. Once I began my tourism management classes, it clicked. I had found the perfect blend of people, purpose, and hospitality that truly energized me.

How did your Clemson experience prepare you for your career in sports and entertainment hospitality?

Clemson gave me the perfect mix of classroom learning and hands-on experience. I started working with Aramark in the catering department at the Madren Center during my junior year, and my mentor there encouraged me to apply for the company’s summer internship program. That internship, between my junior and senior year, placed me at Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, and completely changed the course of my career. I fell in love with the scale, the teamwork, and the excitement that comes with live events.

When I returned for my senior year, I found myself connecting what I was learning in class directly to real-world applications in operations, guest experience, and event logistics. It made everything come alive, and I knew I had found my path.

Can you describe your current role as Assistant Director of Operations at Bank of America Stadium?

In my current role with Levy Restaurants at Bank of America Stadium, I oversee premium dining operations across suites, clubs, and special event spaces. No two days look the same, which is what I love most about it. I might be collaborating with our culinary and service teams to design menus for a high-profile client, strategizing logistics for a concert, or leading staff through game-day execution. A big part of my job is building systems, mentoring teams, and finding ways to elevate the guest experience for both our fans and premium clients. It’s fast-paced, unpredictable, and incredibly rewarding.

Working on large-scale events such as the College Football Playoff, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, the FIFA Club World Cup, and the SEC Championship has been so exhilarating. These events are months of planning for just a few unforgettable hours of execution. They teach you to think on your feet, trust your team, and remain calm under pressure. The goal always is: to create a seamless, memorable experience for every guest in the building. It’s an incredible feeling to know you’ve helped make that happen on such a grand scale.

What advice would you give current PRTM students who are interested in event operations and hospitality?

Get involved in as many aspects of the industry as you can—no opportunity is too small. Every event, volunteer shift, or side project teaches you something new about what you love (and what you don’t). Say yes to experiences that challenge you, and be open to learning from every role. This industry is built on relationships and work ethic, so show up with curiosity, positivity, and a willingness to do the hard work. You never know who’s watching—or what opportunity might come from saying “yes” and showing up with enthusiasm.

Marcus Plumb, a Clemson University graduate with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, currently serves as Vice President of Strategy & Growth at Confirmed360, a premier entertainment concierge company that curates exclusive sports, music, and live event experiences for clients around the world.

What inspired you to pursue a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson?

My initial inspiration came from watching Jerry Maguire and developing a strong desire to work in the sports industry. At Clemson, the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management (PRTM) major was popular among the football program. I saw this as the best way to build friendships with players, with the ultimate goal of becoming a sports agent.

How did your Clemson experience prepare you for a career in the live event and entertainment industry?

During my time at Clemson, I gained valuable experience that unknowingly laid the foundation for my career in the entertainment industry. My involvement in Greek life, serving as VP of Sigma Nu, a member of the IFC Judicial Board, and on the Young Greek Leaders Board, gave me the chance to develop leadership skills. During my final two years at Clemson, I worked in the service industry, which taught me valuable people skills. I learned to interact with a wide variety of personalities and gained confidence in my communication abilities. In this industry, long days and nights on weekends are the norm, and very few could thrive working Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, including double shifts, on a Clemson gameday.

Can you tell us about your current role with Confirmed360?

Confirmed360 is a premier entertainment concierge service that curates customized sports, music, and live event experiences, simplifying VIP event booking for clients. Our clientele includes Fortune 500 executives, celebrities, athletes, and high-net-worth individuals seeking experiences such as a Super Bowl suite or a yacht excursion around F1 Monaco. As Vice President of Strategy and Growth, I focus on identifying opportunities to expand our business portfolio, forming partnerships, developing premium rewards programs, and securing exclusive event access for our sales team.

How have your experiences across major sports organizations shaped your leadership and client engagement?

I have been fortunate to work at companies like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Confirmed360, where I was surrounded by exceptional leadership. My years in Silicon Valley and San Francisco were eye-opening, giving me the opportunity to learn from leaders of billion-dollar organizations with backgrounds at companies like Google, Facebook, and NASA. I vividly recall experiencing imposter syndrome during training at StubHub, wondering how a Clemson PRTM major with a 2.7 GPA ended up among such high-caliber talent. I quickly realized that strong leadership is about team building and valuing diverse perspectives, and that I was there for my industry knowledge and the street smarts I had gained along the way.

What advice would you give current PRTM students who are interested in careers in sports, entertainment, or event management?

My advice is to be actively involved. This industry thrives on live events, so immerse yourself in them. My senior-year internship at the Nashville Sports Council was incredibly insightful, covering everything from SEC football games to Tough Mudder races, and showed me the critical role live events play in a city’s economic growth. These experiences gave me a significant advantage when I applied for my first job in ticket sales for a professional sports team. Lastly, cultivate a genuine passion for the industry. Once you have good teammates, leaders, and mentors, you become a sponge, learn to believe in yourself, and create momentum that drives you forward. As my grandpa always told me, “Love what you do, and you will never work a day in your life.” Among all the majors out there, I truly believe PRTM gives you a path to live out this statement—and I feel that I am.

Juliana Gonzalez, a Clemson University graduate with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, currently works as a Private Events Coordinator at Hogsalt, a Chicago hospitality company known for its unique restaurants and exceptional dining experiences.

What inspired you to pursue a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson?

I discovered PRTM at Clemson and realized it matched my interests in sports, events, and being outdoors. I specifically chose the Tourism & Event Management concentration because I felt as though it was very versatile and would allow me to explore so many different professional sectors while interacting with lots of different people every day. My coursework in Risk Management, Special Event Management, Professional Preparation, and several other classes directly correlate to my current role. Also, there were so many amazing guest speakers and opportunities to get involved in PRTM that really made me feel comfortable and confident heading into my professional life.

What does a typical day in your role look like?

I’m currently working as a Private Events Coordinator for Hogsalt in Downtown Chicago! Hogsalt is a restaurant group that offers fine dining, hospitality, and unforgettable culinary experiences. Though originally based in Chicago, the company has since expanded to New York City, Las Vegas, and Paris. Some of our restaurants include 4 Charles Prime Rib, Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf, Au Cheval, Monkey Bar, Trivoli Tavern, and many more. As a Private Events Coordinator, I collaborate with an amazing events team to respond to event and catering inquiries, manage all event correspondence, and communicate effectively to meet client needs.

What has it been like transitioning from an intern to a full-time Private Events Coordinator?

I have such a great team at Hogsalt who are very patient and supportive of me. They helped me transition smoothly from my internship to my full-time role by allowing me to shadow them on client walkthroughs, participate in meetings, and ask plenty of questions. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned so far is about general customer service; working in a metropolitan area like Chicago means interacting with a diverse range of people from locals, tourists, families, sports teams, agents, and individuals of all ages. Learning to communicate with different types of guests has been invaluable to my career and will benefit me throughout my professional life.

What advice would you give to current PRTM students who are interested in the events or hospitality industry?

My advice would be to get involved in any way possible. Say yes to as many opportunities as you can! During my time at Clemson, I got involved in a lot of different events. Whether through Greek Life, PRTM opportunities, or sports, putting yourself out there and gaining experience will greatly benefit you in the future, even if it doesn’t seem directly related to your post-grad plans. Any experience is a good experience and can help you work on things like problem solving, client relations, and attention to detail.

Megan Latimer, a Clemson University graduate with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, currently works as a Project Manager at the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR).

What inspired you to pursue a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson?

Sport has always been a part of who I am. In high school, I was introduced to the business side of athletics and realized there was an entire world behind the games I loved to watch or participate in. I’ve also always been happiest outdoors, exploring, connecting, and creating experiences. When I learned about Clemson’s PRTM program, I knew it could marry both passions. The program’s depth meant I could study everything from sport and tourism to the broader ways people experience leisure, connection, and community. It felt like a place where I could build a career around my love for people, experiences, and sports.

How did your time at Clemson prepare you for a career in the sports and entertainment industry?

Clemson gave me more than a degree, it gave me confidence in my abilities. Through hands-on projects and real-world experiences, I learned how to work with different perspectives, lead with empathy, and adapt quickly to challenges. My years interning with Clemson Athletics gave me a front-row seat to the pace and precision needed in sports. At Clemson, I discovered that success in this industry isn’t just about skill, it’s about showing up for your team, being willing to learn, and giving your best effort every single day. Those lessons have been the backbone of my career so far at NASCAR.

What skills from your education do you find most valuable in your role at NASCAR?

The most valuable skills I took from Clemson are teamwork, critical thinking, and communication. In this role, those three are non-negotiable. Whether I’m leading a cross-departmental meeting, drafting a project update, or navigating an unexpected challenge, I lean on those skills daily. Clemson taught me how to collaborate with intention, think through complex problems, and communicate clearly in ways that move projects and people-forward.

What advice would you give current students who want to pursue a career in the sports entertainment industry?

Build your network and be open to opportunities, even the ones that might feel outside your comfort zone. Every experience, whether you love it or realize it’s not for you, helps you grow and refine your career path. Stay curious, seek out challenges, and lean into your passions. When you pursue them fully, you’ll be amazed at where they can take you.