Sport Management  News

And with the first pick of volunteers for the 2024 NFL Draft, the Detroit Sports Commission selects . . .

Falk College sport management and sport analytics students!

For the NFL Draft in late April, the Detroit Sports Commission and Visit Detroit – the city’s visitors bureau – did indeed utilize the talents of six female students from Falk College’s Department of Sport Management: Aryssa Hopps ’25, Grace Froehlke ’26, and Alivia (Ava) Uribe ’26 from Sport Management, and Anna Pierce ’25, Madelyn (Maddy) Forster ’26, and Claire Patin ’26 from the department’s Sport Analytics program.

During their three days in Detroit, the students worked a variety of volunteer roles, visited with female executives from the NBA’s Detroit Pistons, and networked with Syracuse University alumni at a dinner hosted by David Katz, chair of the Visit Detroit Board of Directors and the parent of a Syracuse University student. The students were accompanied by Sport Management Internship Coordinators Beth Perez, who organized the trip, and Aaron Knighton.

Perez says the genesis of the trip was a conversation between Falk College Dean Jeremy Jordan and Katz, who believed students would benefit from volunteer opportunities at the draft. In discussions with the Sport Management team, Jordan suggested that this experiential learning opportunity be reserved for female students, and Perez thought that was “a fantastic idea.”

“There’s a push for female leadership and providing opportunities for females in the sport industry,” Perez says. “As we know, they’re still the minority within the industry, so we wanted to make it a point to bring the most students we could to get this experience.

“As soon as we mentioned the NFL draft and having the opportunity to go, they without hesitation said yes, even before they figured out their schedules,” Perez adds.

To better understand the impact of this trip, we asked two of the students – sport management’s Hopps and sport analytics’ Patin, to share with us the highlights of their experience in Detroit. Here’s what they wrote:

Aryssa Hopps

“My time working in Teammate Headquarters at the NFL Draft was truly an unforgettable experience. I was the first interaction all volunteers had before starting their shifts with the draft, meaning I was able to have an impact on every individual. Whether it be offering a warm greeting, asking them if they were excited about the draft, or just chatting about our favorite teams, I felt as though every person that I met truly impacted my experience in Detroit.

“Most volunteers lived in Detroit or other areas of Michigan, and others were from surrounding states. It was inspirational to hear the stories and different backgrounds from everyone I worked with. Every person had a different reason for why they wanted to volunteer and give back to the city of Detroit.

“While I was inside during my shifts at the NFL Draft Experience and not outside with all the activities like the other women on our trip, I wouldn’t have wanted my experience to be any other way. I was able to form friendships with the small crew that I worked with who made a lasting impact on my impression of Detroit. Over the course of two days, our crew became so close we all signed up to volunteer to work the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, where we hope to meet up again someday.”

Claire Patin

“While in Detroit for the 2024 NFL Draft, me and my peers had the opportunity to experience so much in such little time. The night before the draft, David Katz hosted us as well as other Syracuse alumni in his home for a dinner and networking event. There were people from all different classes and majors from Syracuse, most of them working in the sport industry in some type of way. It was amazing to talk to everyone and build connections with them. There were so many successful people in the industry I want to go into in one room, and it was a great opportunity to have conversations with all of them.

“The first day of the draft, I worked at the autograph signing tent helping with the lines, directing people, and taking pictures of fans with players. One of the players signing autographs was Frank Ragnow, a center for the Detroit Lions, who was a fan favorite. It was fun to see fans so excited to meet him and be right there to take their picture with him.

“I love the culture that sports creates, and I got to see this with hundreds of people who wanted an autograph from their favorite player. All of the fans were so nice, and just so excited to be at the draft. I feel really lucky that I not only got to experience it myself, but also be a part of the positive experience for the fans. Overall, it was an unbelievable experience to be working the NFL draft.”

As with an NFL team after the draft, Perez and Knighton went back to work soon after returning to Syracuse to start looking at opportunities for next year and beyond for female students and all students from Sport Management. For example, after the positive experience the students had in Detroit, they’ve already started talking about how they can get students to the NCAA men’s basketball Final Four in Detroit in 2027.

“We have a good push for elevating our female students and trying to provide them experiential learning and leadership opportunities and now we can be strategic and build partnerships to make that happen,” Perez says. “We definitely have the mindset of, how can we provide more of these experiences for all of our students?”

Visit the Falk College website to learn more about the Department of Sport Management and its academic programs, experiential learning, and career opportunities.

Dessa Bergen-Cico, professor and graduate director in the Department of Public Health, has been selected as the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics’ Honors Core Faculty member for a three-year term starting this May.

Renée Crown University Honors Program Core Faculty help shape the Honors Program curriculum and policy, and assist with strategic planning. Their academic vision and scholarly rigor guide the Honors Program in matters crucial both to the larger Honors faculty and to Honors students.

At Syracuse University, Bergen-Cico is coordinator of the Addiction Studies Programs, faculty in the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, and a research affiliate for the Lerner Center for Public Health Promotion at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. She was selected as Falk College’s Honors Core Faculty member by a four-person committee in consultation with Falk Dean Jeremy Jordan and Honors Program Director Danielle Taana Smith.

“Dessa’s credentials and passion for this opportunity were simply outstanding, and we are fortunate to have her represent us with the Honors program,” says Falk Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs Mary Graham, who was joined on the committee by Associate Dean of Academic Affairs Kay Bruening, Associate Dean of Research and Administration Katie McDonald, and Nutrition and Food Studies Associate Teaching Professor Chaya Charles.

“The Honors core faculty are so pleased to welcome Dr. Bergen-Cico to the group,” says Honors Program Director Smith, Professor of African American Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences at Syracuse. “The core faculty are high-impact teachers and researchers, at the forefront of their disciplines. They enhance the collegial experiences of students and are integral to the program.

“Dr. Bergen-Cico brings a background of undergraduate education excellence and academic leadership,” Smith adds. “We are excited to work with her to impact students, the campus, and our communities as a whole.”

Bergen-Cico holds a research appointment at the Syracuse Veterans Administration Medical Center and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Health Care Providers in the Addictive Disorders. She is a Certified Addiction Specialist (CAS), Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), and Certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Teacher.

Bergen-Cico completed her MBSR teacher training through the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. She has been selected for two Fulbright Scholarships and was selected as a Rotary Peace Fellow in the International Rotary Peace Program at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand.

Bergen-Cico is currently leading a research team that’s exploring how to combine an artificial intelligence system with mindfulness-based practices to help people in treatment for opioid use disorder, and she co-developed the International Drug Policy Academy, which is one of several unique opportunities for students to obtain global experience that exposes them to new ways of thinking about substance abuse and addictive behaviors.

“As an Honors Faculty member, I would be able to teach students interdisciplinary and global perspective courses that encompass depth and breadth of content I am otherwise not afforded the opportunity to teach, at the level our top students need and want,” Bergen-Cico said in her letter of interest for the Honors Core position. “For example, it would afford opportunities to engage students in learning and research in applied neuroscience and cross-cultural biomarkers across diverse fields of study integrating sociology, psychology, and neurobiology in the study of addictive behaviors, stress, trauma, and conflict.”

Bergen-Cico is replacing Rick Burton, David B. Falk Endowed Professor of Sport Management, as Falk College’s Honors Core Faculty member.

“I and my colleagues in the Dean’s Office would like to thank Professor Burton for serving so capably for over 10 years as our Falk College designee to the Honors Program,” Graham says.

The Department of Sport Management held an awards celebration May 10 in Falk College. Students who were recognized for academic excellence, philanthropic work, and post-graduate plans included:

Falk Scholars

Falk College Scholars represent undergraduate students in Falk College who display academic excellence, exceptional campus and community engagement, and personal integrity. This years department of sport management Falk College Scholars are:

Sean Boland
Tyler Bolebruch
Alison Gilmore
Nicholas Kamimoto
Alexander Oppel

Falk Marshals

Senior Class Marshals have excelled during their time on campus and exemplify the spirit of the senior class. The selection committee assesses the nominees on scholarship, academic honors, student organization involvement, and campus/community service.

Falk Marshal: Alison Gilmore
Sport Management Marshal: Sydney Topper
Sport Analytics Marshal: Marissa Schneider
Sport Venue and Event Management graduate student Marshal: Erica Trobia

Berline Sport Analytics Scholars:

Thomas Armstrong
Tyler Bolebruch
Sean Boland
Nicholas Catalano
Alison Gilmore
David Gold
Brett Gustin
Nicholas Kamimoto
Alexander Oppel
Quinn Robnett
Marissa Schneider

Director’s Academic Achievement Award

Sport Management

Twenty-five Sport Management students received the Director’s Academic Achievement Award for achieving a GPA of 3.4 or higher for each of their consecutive semesters at Syracuse University:

Sport Analytics

Fourteen students Sport Analytics students received the Director’s Academic Achievement Award for achieving a GPA of 3.4 or higher for each of their consecutive semesters at Syracuse University:

Jackson Bayuk
Sean Boland
Tyler Bolebruch
Martin Castner
George will Cave III
Lucas Falcetti
Alison Gilmore
Jacob Graff
Mathew Holes
Jordan Jones
Niccholas Kamimoto
Ryan O’Connell
Alexander Oppel
Quinn Robnett

Sport Management Director’s Award

This award is presented to a student with a GPA of 3.5 or higher and a person who is a strong ambassador for the department, demonstrates exemplary service to the community, possesses strong professional sport industry experience, and is a strong mentor for other Sport Management majors.

Recipient: Elena Randolph

Elena has embraced the entire mantra of our program. She is graduating with a 3.9 GPA and has been an instrumental member of the graduating class in both the classroom and her engagement within the field and program. She served as President of the Sport Professionals of Color Club for two years. In 2022, Elena was selected to attend the Michigan Sports Business Conference, where she was named a BIG Initiative Award Winner as one of the 11 highest-achieving sport management students in the United States and Canada. Elena has interned with Syracuse University Athletics, the WNBA and BSE Global. Most recently, Elena completed her senior Capstone internship with the WNBA Players Association. We are proud to say that Elena has been asked to extend her internship until the end of the season with the WNBA Players Association.

Sport Management Director’s Award for Academic Promise

This award is presented to a student who will attend graduate or professional school; has attained a GPA of 3.5 or higher; and is a person who is a strong ambassador for the department, demonstrates exemplary service to the community, possesses strong professional sport industry experience, and is a strong mentor for other Sport Management majors.

Recipient: Nina Bilotti

Nina will graduate summa cum laude in Sport Management, where she amassed a distinguished academic career earning a GPA of 3.9. She is a member of the Pre-Law Society, Sport Law Club, Sport Management Club, and Women in Sports and Events. Nina was an operations assistant with the Syracuse Crunch Hockey Club, as well as a front office intern. She was a social media intern with Syracuse Athletic Communications working with women’s soccer, football, women’s rowing, and softball. In her hometown of Denville, New Jersey, she was a youth lacrosse coach and played for the Syracuse Women’s Lacrosse Club. She completed her senior Capstone with Priority Sports and will continue her post-graduate education this fall in advertising and public relations in Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communications.

Sport Management Academic Excellence Award

The Sport Management Academic Excellence Award recognizes a student with a grade-point average of 3.8 or higher.

Recipient: Madeline Huzjak

Madeline graduated with a GPA of a 3.97. What is more impressive is that along with her academic accomplishments, she has also been heavily involved in a variety of activities. Maddie was a member of the club soccer team all four years. She also interned with Syracuse University athletics in athletic communications, Cuse Crew, and the Stevenson Center. Maddie was a member of the Women and Sport and Events club, and served as president in 2021. Outside of Syracuse, she also completed internships with the University of Pittsburgh, Actual Size, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Most recently, Maddie completed her Senior Capstone with the Philadelphia Eagles, first as a ticket and fans service intern and was then moved into a community relations seasonal associate role. After graduation, Maddie will be heading to the National Football League to be part of their rotational program. Maddie is the first student in the history of the program to get accepted into the rotational program at the NFL.

Matt Brodsky Philanthropic Excellence Award

This award is named after Matt Brodsky, a sport management major who passed away unexpectedly after the Fall semester of his freshman year in 2013. In his honor, the department created an award that stems from his philanthropic excellence while he was a student at Syracuse University. This award is presented to a student who displays outstanding service to both the campus and greater Syracuse communities; demonstrates exemplary citizenship and philanthropic qualities; serves as a mentor for students by establishing outreach opportunities for the Department and University; and is an exemplary representative of Sport Management.

Recipient: Sarah Thompson

Sarah has been involved in the sport management program and the community for the past four years. Sarah was a four-year member of the women’s ice hockey team. As part of her passion for hockey, Sarah created her own non-profit organization called Sticks Together, giving children around the world the opportunity to learn and play the sport of hockey. She manages her program through the IVHQ Sport Development program with the goal of providing innovative physical education lessons and introduce the game of hockey. She partnered with CARHA Hockey as it further expands into community driven work and with Play it Again Sports to collect recycled hockey sticks and other street hockey equipment to donate to schools and communities. She has led hockey mission trips to Argentina in the summer of 2022 and South Africa last summer. She is continuing her efforts as she is planning a trip to Tigman Village, Palawan, this summer. Sarah recently completed her Senior Capstone with Game Changer. Sarah will attend graduate school at St. Lawrence University, where she will work toward a Master of Arts in Leadership degree and continue to play hockey.

Sport Management Professional Engagement Award

This award is presented in recognition of a student’s real-world experience, work ethic, dedication, professional demeanor, and career development as an undergraduate student and representative of the Department of Sport Management. This student’s outstanding academic achievements, coupled with strong citizenship and community service, typify the hard work, dedication, and preparation the student made throughout their academic career at Syracuse University.

Recipient: Tracey Edson

Tracey has been involved with Syracuse University since she was very young and came into the program with a drive and passion that led her to incredible success. She has skillfully managed her time each day and had a 3.9 GPA while being involved in everything Syracuse University has to offer. For Falk College, Tracey has been a student ambassador, peer advisor, and summer teaching assistant. For the department, she has served as a member of the Women in Sports and Events (WISE) and Sport Management clubs. For the Sport Management Club, she served as the communication committee chair for two years.

Outside of the college and department, Tracey found a second home in athletics. She started out in athletic communications and then found a passion for ice hockey and served in a variety of roles for the team, including digital media and most recently as the Director of Operations as her senior Capstone. Outside of campus, Tracey has gained tremendous experience through other organizations, including The Basketball Tournament and the Syracuse Crunch. Besides her engagement within sport management, Tracey was also heavily involved with organizations such as the Fellowship for Christian Athletes. She has been an incredible member of our program and always comes in with a smile on her face and a willingness to help with whatever is needed. Upon graduation, she will head to the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill to pursue a master’s degree in sport administration.

Jason Morales Perseverance in Sports and Life Award

This award is named in honor of Jason Morales, a sport management student who passed away while completing his Senior Capstone in New York City in 2013. Since 2014, this award has been given in Jason’s honor to a student who has demonstrated persistence, perseverance, and positive motivation throughout his/her academic career while striving to be their best when confronted with life’s challenges. Jason overcame many challenges while at Syracuse University and was just 6 weeks away from graduation when he passed away.

Recipient: Andrew Amell

Andrew has exemplified the meaning of this award by overcoming several points of adversity throughout his college career. Andrew has shown immense motivation, passion, and the ability to overcome the most difficult challenges. Andrew has a passion and love for Syracuse that stands out among his peers. Despite life’s challenges, Andrew always gives 110 percent of his abilities, keeps a smile on his face, and works hard to overcome whatever is in his way. Most recently, Andrew completed his senior capstone with the Syracuse University Men’s Basketball Operations Department after serving as a team manager for the past three seasons.

Sport Management VIP Award

The Sport Management VIP Award is presented to a student with outstanding service to the department; has engaged in a variety of experiential learning and sport industry experiences; actively volunteers to serve the department and University on a regular basis; demonstrates strong professionalism and outstanding character; and serves as a role model for Sport Management majors.

Recipient: Philip Tepper

Philip has been an integral part of this department since he stepped foot on campus as a freshman. He has carried a 3.9 GPA while also engaging himself in the experiential learning opportunities within the University. Philip has been an active member of the Sport Management Club for all four years, serving as a committee member for the donations and inventory committees. He also served as Vice President of the Programming Committee. Philip has completed internships with the Sports Broadcast Journal and Three Two Strategies. Most recently, in the fall, he completed his Senior Capstone with the Bowl Season. He did such an outstanding job that they kept him on this past spring as a digital media assistant.

Kate Veley Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility Award

Kate worked at Syracuse University for more than 15 years and was instrumental in the planning of the annual Sports Charity Auction. She recently retired as the Director of Corporate Philanthropy for Make A Wish of Central New York. The Kate Veley Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility Award is presented to a student who has “given back to the community they’ve called home for the past four years.” This student has continually demonstrated strong volunteerism and philanthropic effort to improve the lives of others within the greater Syracuse community, and in so doing, set an example for us all.

Recipient: Alexander Grossman

Alex served as 2023 co-chair for the Sport Management Club’s Annual Charity Sports Auction that raised $48,000 for Tillie’s Touch in Syracuse. During his four years as a club member, Alex held leadership roles as the Co-Chair for Sales and Vice President of Community Service. This semester, Alex completed his Senior Capstone with WSC Sports. Alex also interned for Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League, Amsterdam Mohawks, and Vandetta Sports Media. These experiences prove Alex’s dedication to giving back to the community, the department is confident Alex will continue on this path.

Patrick Ryan Sport Technology Award

This award is named after Professor Emeritus Patrick Ryan, who taught at Syracuse University for 15 years before retiring in May 2021. He taught and created all the Sport Technology courses for the department. Prior to joining Syracuse, Ryan worked in the technology industry for more than 30 years. This award recognizes a student’s entrepreneurial spirit and academic excellence while utilizing technology to enhance personal skills.

Recipient: Allison Rosen

Allison completed her senior Capstone last summer and fall with the Premier Lacrosse League as a Social Media Intern and, for the last three years, served the Syracuse Athletic Department as a Creative Services Intern and Women’s Soccer Student Manager. Her creative photography work has been featured on many local media sites, especially her work with Syracuse men’s lacrosse. Additionally, she served as a Donations Chair for the Sport Management Club Charity Auction and Communications Officer for Sport Excel UK, a sports association aiding those with learning disabilities. She has used her communications and photography skills and served in leadership roles with Women in Sports and Events (WISE), Sport Management Club, and the Daily Orange.

Sport Venue and Event Management Graduate Student Award

Recipient: Holly Carr

Holly graduated from SUNY Oswego with a degree in business administration and management. While at Oswego, Holly was a member of the field hockey team and found an interest in working in sport during her experiences with the SUNY Oswego Athletic Department and the SUNY Athletic Conference. Since joining our program last July, Holly has embraced our philosophy of experiential learning by working in the JMA Wireless Dome; as a graduate assistant in the Department of Sport Management assisting faculty with teaching and research; and as a volunteer with organizations such as the Savannah Bananas during their tour stop in Cooperstown. She also played a pivotal role in the planning of the SVEM graduate student immersion trip to New York City. Holly’s outstanding academic achievements, along with her strong leadership and respect that she earned from faculty members and her peers, make her a role model for future graduate students.

Sport Analytics Academic Excellence Award

This award is in recognition of a student’s outstanding academic achievement and overall scholarship in Sport Analytics.

Recipient: Sean Boland

Sean is a Berlin Scholar and Falk College Scholar. He has been incredibly engaged on campus during his time in Syracuse. Sean has served as a student manager/data analyst for the SU men’s soccer team since the fall of 2021, including being part of the national championship-winning team in 2022. Sean has also served as a data analyst for the Swiss professional soccer team FC Wil (VILL), data collection analyst for Pro Football Focus FC, and data analytics intern for the Hamptons Collegiate Baseball League. He also served the department as a teaching assistant in the 2023 Berlin Sport Analytics Academy for high school students.

Sport Analytics Academic Excellence Award

This award is in recognition of a student’s outstanding academic achievement and overall scholarship in Sport Analytics.

Recipient: Nicholas Kamimoto

Nicholas is a Berlin Scholar and Falk College Scholar. This spring he was part of the team that captured the team title at the 2024 National Collegiate Sports Analytics Championship. He has been an active member of the football and basketball analytics clubs on campus and has served as a supervisor in the Barnes Center. Nick has spent time as a video and analytics intern with San Francisco Glens SC, as well as a Technology and Data Services intern with the United Soccer League. In addition, Nick contributed significantly to a research project with Dr. Sanders and Dr. Ehrlich that was selected as a finalist at the prestigious MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference.

Sport Analytics Director’s Award for Academic Promise

This award is in recognition of a student’s plans to attend post-graduate education, exemplary service to the community, and service as an ambassador and mentor to students in Sport Analytics.

Recipient: Tyler Bolebruch

Tyler is a Berlin Scholar and Falk College Scholar. He has been active gaining experience in the industry, having completed internships with the Amsterdam Mohawks and EV Analytics. This spring, he was part of the team that captured the team title at the 2024 National Collegiate Sports Analytics Championship. Tyler has been accepted to continue his educational experience in the Applied Data Science Master’s Program in the School of Information Studies at Syracuse University.

Sport Analytics Research Excellence Award

This award is in recognition of a student’s demonstrated commitment and success in academic research, presentation, and publication in Sport Analytics.

Recipient: Quinn Robnett

Quinn is a Berlin Scholar and has spent significant time focused on research. He is a key member of hockey analytics club, serving as director of media, and has also spent time as an analytics intern with Syracuse University’s field hockey team. He has also been selected twice to participate in the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference Hackathon, making it to the finals in his first year. Last summer, Quinn was chosen as a participant in the highly competitive Undergraduate Summer Research program at Carnegie Mellon University. Throughout that experience he worked on a project, Examining the Decline of Save Percentage in the NHL, that he presented at the Carnegie Mellon Sports Analytics Conference in November 2023. Quinn will continue his education at Syracuse University as he completes a master’s degree in applied data science through the School of Information Studies in the coming academic year.

Sport Analytics VIP Award

This award is in recognition of a student’s outstanding service, volunteerism, strong academic standing, leadership, and service as a role model to students in Sport Analytics.

Recipient: Alexander Oppel

Alex has been an omnipresent member of the department. As a Berlin Scholar, Alex has been a major part of research analyzing the impact of television proliferation on live college basketball attendance. He has a long list of accomplishments: He is one of the few students to present research at the 2023 SABR Analytics Conference, he was a major contributor of Syracuse’s first overall winning team at the SABR Diamond Dollars competition, and he was a member of the winning team for the Cincinnati Reds’ Hack-a-Thon. He has completed internships with Wasserman and Syracuse softball, and he is a Falk Scholar. He also served as president of the Sabermetrics Club and has been a constant mentor to our baseball-focused students.

Sport Analytics Game Changer Award

This award is in recognition of a student’s positive impact on fellow Sport Analytics students and their unyielding dedication, professional skills, and commitment to succeed. This student has “changed the game” and made a tremendous difference in our program and across campus at Syracuse University.

Recipient: Alison Gilmore

Alison is Berlin Scholar and Falk College Scholar. She also received two of the University’s highest honors, being named a Syracuse University Scholar for the Class of 2024 and a 2023-24 Remembrance Scholar. Alison has been active in student competitions throughout her time in the program, including winning a room in the inaugural Football Analytics Blitz competition in 2021 and being part of, and leading, a team at SABR Diamond Dollars Case Competitions in Arizona. She is an active member of Falk College’s Sport Analytics Women’s Club, having served as president.

Alison earned internships with Zoomph as a Women in Sports Tech Fellow, Sports Reference, and most recently, 6-4-3 Charts. In addition, she is a Falk College Ambassador and Peer Advisor, and a student assistant with the Disability Cultural Center. She is a key member of OttoTHON and Orange Seeds. Alison has truly made a difference in the program, and the department wishes her the best of luck as she starts her professional career with the Detroit Tigers as a Baseball Analytics Associate.

Falk College acknowledges with gratitude the contributions and dedicated service of five faculty and two staff members retiring this year: Thom deLara, Dennis Deninger, Donna Fecteau, Eric Kingson, Eileen Lantier, Dianne Seeley, and Michael Veley.

Here’s a look at the Falk College retirees who were honored at a celebration Friday, May 3 in Falk College Complex:

Thom deLara, M.S.W., M.B.A.

Professor of Practice in the Department of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)

Thom has 50 years of experience as an administrator, academic, licensed mental health practitioner, and management consultant. Prior to joining Syracuse University, he was chief executive for two not-for-profit organizations and served as vice-president of business development and strategic planning at a large health care organization.

Thom has authored more than 30 funded federal, state, local, and foundation grant applications, totaling more than $10 million. These grants established and expanded primary care services for rural and underserved communities in New York, New Jersey, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Thom also taught courses at Cornell University on the politics of public budgeting, critical issues in healthcare, and strategic management in healthcare.

Thom joined the Syracuse University faculty in 2002 and served for 14 years as Chair of the Department of Marriage and Family Therapy. He led substantial advancements in the curriculum to train students to meet the mental health and relational needs of children and families. Thom was deeply involved in the creation of the highly respected MFT training facility at Peck Hall, and he led the development and implementation of the online master’s degree program in marriage and family therapy.

In addition to his service as a faculty member and department chair, he served as a member of the University Senate, and numerous college and university committees. In all his work, Thom has demonstrated personal dedication to expanding and improving the quality of health care and mental health care for underserved populations and communities.

Dennis Deninger

Professor of Practice in the Department of Sport Management

Dennis is a former television production executive and Emmy Award-winner for innovation in sports television, production on digital platforms, and educational television. He spent 25 years leading production teams at ESPN, where he launched more than a dozen televised series and events, including Wimbledon, Major League Soccer, and the National Spelling Bee. He developed for American television the digital instant review technology called “Shot Spot,” which is now in use at all major tennis tournaments.

Dennis is the author of three books, including “The Football Game That Changed America” from Rowman and Littlefield scheduled for release this fall. He has written and directed two documentary films at Syracuse University: “America’s First Sport” about the history and rapid growth of lacrosse, and “Changing Sports, Changing Lives” on the impact of adaptive sports on persons with disabilities. His expert commentary is published in countless national and international media outlets, including The New York Times, Forbes, USA Today, Associated Press, The Wall Street Journal, and many others.

As a professor of practice at Syracuse University, Dennis created new graduate and undergraduate level courses and served as the founding director of the sports communications graduate program at the Newhouse School. Dennis has taught in Falk College since 2010. He was honored with the Falk College Faculty Member of the Year Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2014 and 2024.

Donna Fecteau

Administrative Assistant in the Department of Exercise Science

Donna joined Syracuse University in 1987 as a temporary part-time employee in Human Resources. Within just a few months, she was hired full-time as office coordinator position in Health and Physical Education, now known as Falk College’s Department of Exercise Science. At the time, she had the only computer in the department with a hard drive. In fact, her understanding of hard drives and floppy discs was a key reason she was hired for the job.

She coordinated reservations for the gyms, pools, and fields used by students throughout campus. She was responsible for the one-credit activity courses that eventually became the I-Move program. Those courses enrolled up to 3,000 students each year from across campus.
In 1996, she was promoted to the administrative secretary position. The Exercise Science offices were in the Women’s Building until they joined Falk College and moved into the Falk Complex. During her time at Syracuse, Donna has supported students and faculty alike with her positive energy and kindness.

Eric Kingson, M.P.A., Ph.D.

Professor in the School of Social Work

Eric joined the Syracuse University social work faculty in 1998. He is also a faculty affiliate of the Syracuse University Aging Studies Institute and an affiliated researcher with the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. Eric is a founding co-director of the Social Security Works, which launched the Strengthen Social Security Coalition with over 300 national and state organizations dedicated to advancing economic security through strengthening and expanding Social Security policies and programs.

Eric served as policy advisor to two presidential commissions — the 1982 National Commission on Social Security Reform and the 1994 Bipartisan Commission on Entitlement and Tax Reform. He was also an active volunteer on President Obama’s Retirement Security Policy Advisory Committee and later served on the advisory committee to the Social Security Administration’s transition team. He has held many service and leadership roles, including with the National Academy of Social Insurance and the Gerontological Society of America.

His numerous journal articles, book chapters, and research studies examine the politics and economics of population aging, Social Security policy, cross-generational obligations, and retirement income security. His expert commentary and contributions have been published in major media outlets such as the Huffington Post, The Washington Post, Boston Globe, and many others. Eric is the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2007 Chancellor’s Citation for Faculty Excellence and Scholarly Distinction, the 2010 Martin Luther King, Jr. Unsung Hero Award from Syracuse University, the 2015 Falk College Faculty Researcher of the Year Award, among others.

Eileen Lantier, R.N., Ph.D.

Associate Professor in the Department of Public Health

Eileen joined the Syracuse University College of Nursing faculty in 1983. She served as the Director of the Learning Resource Center on campus and assisted with the development of satellite learning resource centers in Binghamton and Waverly, New York, to support students enrolled in nursing programs in those regions. She and her colleagues successfully secured grants to procure the most up-to-date technology and promote excellence in clinical care. One standout example was the limited residency Nurse Practitioner program, which enrolled students from across the U.S. and as far away as Saudi Arabia. In addition to her teaching, applied research, and service, Eileen developed a NYSED-approved Certificate in Nursing Informatics at Syracuse University.

In 2006, Eileen was appointed Associate Dean of Academic Affairs of the newly merged College of Human Services and Health Professions, a predecessor of Falk College. For nearly 20 years, Eileen led the formation and transformation of countless academic degree programs across Falk College, including the inception of new programs for Syracuse University ranging from public health to sport analytics and beyond. Eileen skillfully managed curriculum, program review, course delivery, academic integrity, admissions, and many other key administrative areas.

At the university level, Eileen has served on the Syracuse University Senate, Chancellor’s University Leadership Team, Forum on Institutional Effectiveness, Health Care Advisory Committee, Campus Wellness Task Force, Nurses Alumni Association, and many others. She was appointed to several city, county, and state commissions, including the Syracuse Commission for Women and County Drug and Alcohol Commission. The New York State Board of Regents appointed Eileen to its Blue-Ribbon Panel on the Nursing Shortage.

Dianne Seeley, M.S.

Operations, Space, and Facilities Manager for the Office of the Dean

Dianne worked at the Syracuse University Registrar’s Office as a classroom scheduling assistant before joining Falk College in 2008 as an administrative assistant in the Dean’s Office. Two years later, she started working in space, operations, and facilities for Falk. At the time, Falk programs were scattered across eight locations, from Drumlins on south campus to several main campus locations.

When the College of Law planned to vacate MacNaughton, White, Barclay, and Grant for the newly constructed Dineen Hall, Dianne and her colleagues prepared to bring Falk College under one roof. Dianne was a driving force in developing and implementing this extraordinary project that involved four years of planning, renovations, and construction from 2011 to the Falk College Complex dedication in 2015. The convergence of academic departments and administrative suites involved careful planning to ensure the Complex met the diverse programmatic needs for research and teaching. It included construction of major laboratories, including the Nutrition Assessment, Consultation and Education (ACE) Center, the Milton Conrad Sport Technology Lab, and the Susan R. Klenk Learning Café and Kitchens. The innovative design of the Klenk Kitchens earned recognition and honors from the American Institute of Architects Central New York Chapter.

In the years to follow, Dianne managed major projects such as the construction of the Falk Café on the second floor, the exercise science and public health relocations into Barclay, and the conversion of the former College of Law Library Stacks to the beautiful multipurpose space in Falk 335. In between these major milestones, Dianne has facilitated countless numbers of moves, ensuring everyone has what they need—from desks to door keys.

Michael Veley, M.P.S.

the Rhonda S. Falk Endowed Professor in the Department of Sport Management

Michael spent nearly two decades as a Division I athletic administrator at Cornell and Syracuse, including 10 years at Syracuse University, where he implemented marketing, communications, and corporate sponsorship initiatives. He is a three-time National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators (NACMA) award winner.

Michael has served as founding director and chair of the Department of Sport Management since 2005. Under his leadership, the program has become a national trailblazer in the sport industry. He led the development of more than 25 new academic courses, the nation’s first undergraduate degree in sport analytics, and a first-of-its-kind undergraduate degree in esports. Michael ensured that experiential learning was a defining feature of sport academic degree programs, which has resulted in a strong tradition of alumni career success and industry impact.

He brought the industry into the program, building partnerships with organizations such as the New York Yankees, National Baseball Hall of Fame, National Basketball Association Development League, and many others. Michael was instrumental in creating the Sport Management Advisory Council, which is comprised of influential sport industry presidents, founders, and CEOs. In 2013, he was named the inaugural Rhonda S. Falk Endowed Professor of Sport Management. That year he was also honored with a Faculty of the Year Award for excellence in service and dedication to Falk College, Syracuse University, and the greater Syracuse community.

Chaya Lee Charles, an assistant teaching professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies and chair of the Falk Faculty Council, thanked all faculty members who submitted nominations and her fellow Faculty Council members for their time and efforts in the award selection process.

“It is inspiring to see the talent and excellence that we represent as a college, and the high caliber of the nominees made our job challenging,” Charles says. “The Faculty Council is excited to share the results of our thoughtful deliberations.”

Here’s a look at the 2024 honorees with comments from their award presenters:

Dennis Deninger

Professor of Practice in the Department of Sport Management
Evan Weissman Memorial Faculty of the Year Award for Teaching Excellence

From presenter Chaya Lee Charles, assistant teaching professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies and chair of the Falk Faculty Council:

Dennis has an impressive and extensive resume, which many of us are aware of. But as a refresher in this, his final year with us, and in the spirit of his broadcasting background, I will now provide you with the fastest three minutes in Dennis’ top-10 highlight reel:

1. Dennis is a former television executive who has produced live sports television from six continents and across the United States. In his 25 years at ESPN, he launched coverage of Wimbledon, the French Open, and Major League Soccer, and was the executive in charge of production for World Cup Soccer in 1994, a dozen Australian Opens, Friday Night Fights, Triple Crown horse racing, and a multitude of other live events.
2. Dennis is a three-time Emmy award winner for categories in innovation in sports television, production on digital platforms, and educational television.
3. Dennis developed for American television the digital instant review technology called “Shot Spot,” which is now in use at all major tennis tournaments.
4. Dennis’ comments and analysis have been quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, USA Today, ABC News, CNN, Associated Press, The Wall Street Journal, and many other prominent media outlets.
5. Dennis wrote, produced, and directed the biographical documentary “Agent of Change: David Falk,” which premiered at the ribbon-cutting of the Falk College complex and aired on ESPN2.
6. Dennis has written and directed documentaries working with his students at Syracuse University as his research team. “America’s First Sport” was broadcast across the U.S. on the ESPN networks and explored the history, culture, and rapid expansion of lacrosse in the U.S. and around the world. “Changing Sports, Changing Lives” focuses on sports that have been adapted for persons with disabilities, and how these sports have impacted so many lives.
7. Dennis has a new book coming out in September entitled “The Football Game That Changed America.” It is the direct result of the research he has done for his Falk Sport Management course on the Super Bowl and its impact on American life. He is the author of two books previously published entitled “Live Sports Media: The What, How and Why of Sports Broadcasting,” and “Sports on Television.”
8. Dennis was the founding director of the sports communications graduate program at the Newhouse School of Public Communications, and he has created several new graduate- and undergraduate-level courses at Syracuse.
9. Dennis is an outstanding teacher and colleague, as evidenced by his previous Falk College award for excellence in teaching 10 years ago. He has served as faculty advisor of the Sport Professionals of Color student club, and was an early supporter of the newly required sport management course, Race, Gender, and Diversity in Sport Organizations. He has consistently received positive course evaluations in all courses he teaches, including Sport Communications; Sport, Media, and Society; and the ever-so-popular Super Bowl and Society, in which he arranges for several students to travel with him to the Super Bowl and hosts a live Zoom class from the host city.

And . . .

10. The most important highlight and reason for his receiving this award–Dennis’ engagement with students in and out of the classroom is a model we can all aspire to. Whether providing academic or career advice, he is rarely seen in his office without a student seeking his guidance or support. One student summarized it best: “Professor Deninger has great enthusiasm every day and is a great storyteller, so his lectures are much more engaging than other professors might be. It’s very obvious that he knows the content from both an academic and experience perspective. It was an extreme privilege to be able to learn from this industry professional.”

Bernard Appiah

Assistant Professor in the Department of Public Health
Faculty of the Year Award for Excellence in Service

From presenter Lisa Olson-Gugerty, associate teaching professor in the Department of Public Health and a member of the Falk Faculty Council:

Since 2021, Bernard has been faculty advisor of the Graduate Student Association for Public Health, which he helped establish. Under his guidance, the association became the first student association officially affiliated with the New York Public Health Association. Additionally, since 2021, Bernard has served on our department’s Program Review and Assessment Committee (PRAC), a pivotal committee responsible for curriculum review and quality improvement. During his tenure on PRAC, our department achieved accreditation as a “Public Health Program” from the Council for Education in Public Health. In 2023, Bernard served as a member of the Falk Program Review Committee and contributed to the evaluation of SOURCE grant applications, furthering the work of Falk College and Syracuse University.

Bernard has also made significant contributions to our international community, serving on committees relevant to his expertise in pharmacy and health communication. Notably, he is a member of the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) Expert Committee on Healthcare Safety and Quality and the USP’s Drug and Classification (DC) subcommittee. His work with the DC subcommittee led to it being awarded the 2023 USP Award for Outstanding Contribution to USP Standards by a Volunteer Expert Group. Additionally, in fall 2023, Bernard mentored participants in Farm Radio’s online course on using radio for development, fostering impactful radio program design.

Furthermore, Bernard was selected by the Africa Center for Disease Control as a trainer and evaluator for its Public Health Journalism Fellowship program, where he secured funding for a research assistant to attend the conference in Zambia. This initiative contributes significantly to the internationalization of Falk College and the University. In the same period, Bernard joined the expert panel for the development of a manual for blood donor recruitment across Africa, an initiative of the Belgian Red Cross. Finally, Bernard has served as an editorial consultant for Health Psychology and a reviewer for PLOS Global Public Health, enhancing his contributions to the field of global health.

Joey Merrin

Assistant professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Science
Faculty of the Year Award for Excellence in Research

From presenter Ambika Krishnakumar, professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Science and a member of the Falk Faculty Council:

Dr. Gabriel “Joey” Merrin was selected for this honor from a very strong pool of Falk candidates, all with excellent research credentials.

Dr. Merrin is a developmental psychologist and an applied methodologist whose research agenda focuses on a wide range of important and relevant topics such as identity-based harassment, aggression, victimization in the school context, delinquency, substance use, adolescent development, and the transition to young adulthood. His research indicates a commitment to the lives of minority and oppressed groups, and he is currently engaged in translating and mobilizing research knowledge to inform intervention and prevention efforts in these communities.

In the calendar year 2023 to the present, Dr. Merrin published his work in 17 high-impact journals such as Frontiers in Psychology, Psychology of Violence, Journal of Child and Family Studies, and the Journal of Contemporary Educational Psychology, to name a few. He currently has five manuscripts under review and 10 manuscripts in preparation.

In this academic year, Dr. Merrin presented his research at 16 professional conferences. Dr. Merrin received one external grant from the National Institute of Justice as co-investigator and has one grant proposal under review with the National Institute of Health as Co-PI (co-principal investigator). According to the Scopus citations report for 2023-2024, Dr. Merrin’s research was cited by his peers in 367 articles.

Last week, Dr. Merrin was awarded the Excellence in Graduate Education Faculty Recognition Award from Syracuse University for his commitment to graduate student research. In recognition of his excellence in research and his contributions to the advancement of knowledge, Dr. Gabriel Joey Merrin receives the 2024 Falk Faculty Award for Research. Congratulations!

Ten members of the Class of 2024 have been named Falk College Scholars–the highest academic award conferred by the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics on graduating seniors. Falk Scholars represent undergraduate students who display academic excellence, exceptional campus and community engagement, independent research and creative work, innovation in their disciplinary field, and personal integrity.

Sean Boland, Sport Analytics

My most influential–and certainly most memorable–experience at Syracuse University has been working as an analyst for the men’s soccer team. In this role, I have been able to develop technical skills, create memories, and build relationships that will last long after graduation.

I started working with the soccer team as a sophomore, thanks to a connection through the Sport Analytics program, and have loved every minute of the journey it has taken me on these last three years. Standing on the sideline with the team during the decisive penalty kick shootout that won us the 2022 NCAA Championship, running onto the field after the final shot, and getting to hold the national championship trophy are memories that I will never forget. Getting the chance to experience moments like this while also developing relevant skills that will help me as a professional in the sport analytics industry has been everything that I could have asked for and much more.

Tyler Bolebruch, Sport Analytics

The most influential moments that I have had at Syracuse University and Falk College are all the events I was able to travel to, and be a part of, including the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) Analytics Conference, MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference, and National Collegiate Sports Analytics Championship (NCSAC). Each one of these events was a great experience that allowed me to meet a lot of different people and learn from the many different talks and presentations.

Beyond that, for the SABR Conference and NCSAC, I was able to compete and present my work to industry professionals. This has helped me substantially in my search for a job. Instead of simply meeting some of these professionals, they have been able to see my work and what I can do. The exposure from the Sport Analytics program and Falk College has had a massive impact on my college experience and future career opportunities.

Alison Gilmore, Sport Analytics

My time at Syracuse University has been unforgettable and life-changing in so many ways. Involvement in clubs such as Sport Analytics Women Club, Baseball Statistics and Sabermetrics Club, OrangeSeeds, and OttoTHON allowed me to tap into my passions, develop personally and professionally, and surround myself with remarkable and diverse individuals. Further, my work as a Student Assistant and Peer Mentor at the Disability Cultural Center helped support my passion for advocacy while facilitating my growth in exponential ways, from speaking at the New York State capitol to co-presenting in a panel discussion at the University’s inaugural DEIA symposium.

Beyond that, as a Remembrance Scholar—forever the greatest honor of my life—attending the Pan Am Flight 103 35th Anniversary memorial service at Arlington National Cemetery alongside a few of my fellow Scholars was incredibly special. Within sport analytics, the opportunities I was afforded to attend conferences such as the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) Analytics Conference and the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference were fundamental for me professionally. I am endlessly grateful to those who have had a hand in my journey. I am forever Proud to be Orange!

Nicholas Kamimoto, Sport Analytics

Syracuse University and the Sport Analytics program has provided me with countless opportunities throughout my four years here. I have been able to build relationships and create memories that will last a lifetime. The most memorable experiences that I have had here at Syracuse have been the competitions and research that I have been a part of, such as representing Syracuse during the 2024 Business Analytics National Collegiate Sports Analytics Championship. Our team ended up winning the championship and that was such a great feeling seeing all our hard work pay off. I had an incredible time traveling with my friends to compete.

I have also had the opportunity to work alongside (Associate Professor) Dr. Justin Ehrlich this past year. We have worked on various research papers, most notably being a paper analyzing NBA true shot charts. I created a dashboard to display all the GAM (generalized additive model) shot charts. The paper made it all the way to a finalist at the 2024 MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference. I am so grateful for my time at Syracuse and in the Sports Analytics program at Falk College. I thank all my professors and peers who have helped me along the way.

Sophia Lehrer, Human Development and Family Science

Discovering curiosity’s compass in Falk College and the Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) program revealed many shapes and silhouettes that now frame my seasons at Syracuse–challenging valleys traversed, majestic hills ascended, faces and hearts of those that stirred me on. Combining research, fieldwork, and mentorship instilled a passion for pediatric healthcare. Working with toddlers at the Bernice M. Wright Child Development Laboratory School, observing surgeries at St. Joseph’s NICU, and trips including Bloomberg’s London headquarters through Syracuse Abroad connected science, practice, and journalism as integrated pursuits.

Professors and students inspired my path from HDFS Outstanding Freshman to Falk Scholar and beyond. A USA Gymnastics State Vault Champion, I applied the physics of leaping as my teammates and I led Syracuse to the NAIGC Gymnastics National Finals! Syracuse sparked creative leaps as well, encouraging me to publish the cover article in “Healthy You” magazine while earning a minor at Newhouse. Academic, athletic, and life lessons remain as guideposts to pursue a doctorate in healthcare on a journey to become an engaged clinician, researcher, and educator. Thank you, Syracuse, for the path, passion, and people that made a difference and challenged me to do the same! A slice of gratitude among many–Go Orange!

Ainsley MacLachlan, Public Health

My time at Syracuse University has truly been the most memorable four years of my life, thanks to my friends, professors, and mentors. I am incredibly grateful to have received the guidance of (Chair and Professor) Dr. David Larsen, who has supported the start of my research career while teaching me the power of wastewater surveillance in public health.

With my colleagues in Dr. Larsen’s lab, I have had the incredible opportunities of both having my work published in PLOS Global Public Health and attending the New York Water Environment Association’s annual conference. It is because of my experiences during my studies at Syracuse University and Falk College that I feel truly prepared and confident to embark on my next chapter of life.

Creagan Mee, Public Health

Syracuse University has played a huge role in my personal and professional development. Working as an EMT (emergency medical technician) for Syracuse University Ambulance allowed me to explore my passion for medicine. This experience not only taught me essential skills in patient care but also significantly developed my self-confidence. Studying abroad in Florence, Italy, was also a transformative experience that broadened cultural understandings and pushed me outside my comfort zone.

Additionally, conducting research for my honors thesis on the relationship between preterm births and the social determinants of health enhanced my understanding of health issues, especially in maternal reproductive health. This experience equipped me with research skills and valuable knowledge that I will apply in my future career to deliver equitable and compassionate healthcare. I am forever grateful for the friendships, mentorship, and opportunities that Syracuse University has provided me, shaping me into the person I am today.

Alex Oppel, Sport Analytics

My time at Syracuse University has been everything I could have hoped for. While COVID made my college transition more challenging, the experiences I have had and the relationships I have built have allowed me to grow into the person I am today.

Many of my favorite memories at Syracuse have come from my involvement with the Baseball Sabermetrics Club. I have had the opportunity to participate in several baseball analytics case competitions, which served as a platform to showcase and develop my analytical skills. The last two in-person competitions in Phoenix, Arizona, were especially fun. Being able to attend World Baseball Classic and spring training games with peers are experiences I will always remember.

Whenever I reflect on my four years at Syracuse, I will think about the people I am thankful to now call good friends. I have thoroughly enjoyed being surrounded by like-minded classmates who share my passion for sport, as well as interacting with the faculty and staff who make our program unrivaled.

Tess Palin, Nutrition Science

My most influential and memorable experiences in my undergraduate career have been in my time working with Syracuse University’s Mary Ann Shaw Center for Public and Community Service. Starting as a sophomore, I volunteered at Hillside Work-Scholarship Connection to teach students at risk of not graduating how to cook and build balanced meals. After becoming an intern at the Shaw Center, I was able to run that specific program, as well as create and facilitate two different pilot programs that worked with different community partners and students.

I have also been able to help create community events in collaboration with “Take Back the Streets,” a grassroots initiative out of the west side of Syracuse to bring resources to different members of the community. These experiences have strengthened my desire to work with, and for, the various communities I am a part of, which has informed my future education and career goals.

Mariana Pérez Lugo, Nutrition Science

My time at Syracuse University has truly been a journey filled with impactful moments. Joining Dr. Latha Ramalingam’s research lab during my freshman year stands out as a highlight of my undergraduate journey, particularly as I took on the role of primary author for our published manuscript. Beyond academics, I found various ways to fulfill my passion for serving others, such as volunteering with the Shaw Center’s Food Busters Program, leading the Catholic Student Association as president, and even studying abroad in Madrid, immersing myself in diverse communities and cultures.

In addition to these endeavors, my role as a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician at Syracuse University Ambulance was pivotal in shaping my journey. It solidified my passion for medicine, strengthening my commitment to a personalized approach to healthcare as I work towards my goal of becoming a physician.

Soccer – or football as it’s known outside the United States – is the world’s most popular sport.

Analytics is the sport industry’s most popular tool as it’s transforming every aspect of the game from player performance and team strategy to fan engagement and business models.

Over spring break, 20 sport analytics majors from Falk College enjoyed a once-in-lifetime opportunity to visit Italy and witness first-hand the impact of analytics on the highest level of soccer. The eight-day trip to Milan, Bologna, Florence, and Rome was part of Department of Sport Management Professor Rodney Paul’s sport analytics course that explores how data is revolutionizing soccer.

“The international experience, in general, is extremely important for our students, but it also gives them a perspective of how analytics are used in different sports at different levels internationally,” says Paul, director of the Sport Analytics program in Falk College. “The students were not merely observers, however, as they actively wrote and presented sport analytics research to the clubs we visited.”

The students met with analytics staff members and other team officials from elite soccer clubs across Italy, while also exploring the culture, history, and food of the ancient European country that’s surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. As one of the trip’s many highlights, the students attended an Italian Serie A league game between AC Milan and Empoli before more than 70,000 fans at Milan’s San Siro Stadium (AC Milan won 1-0).

The students were accompanied on the trip by Paul, Sport Analytics Program Coordinator Jackie Dorchester G’10, and co-faculty member Ed Lippie, who worked with AS Roma of the Italian Serie league from 2013-20 as a senior performance consultant and head performance coach.

“With our connections we had the privilege of behind-the-scenes access, demonstrating to the students the variety of positions their skill sets match and the opportunities that exist internationally,” Dorchester says. “The value is building on Syracuse University’s Academic Strategic Plan by allowing the students to participate in a study abroad or study away setting, with considerations to their academic goals and financial circumstances.”

Students Jake Graff and Zachary Silverstein say it was fascinating to learn how Italian soccer clubs utilize data compared to sports teams in the United States.

“Clubs with all levels of financial resources and historical success are embracing analytics and finding ways to utilize them in areas that are best for them,” says Graff ’24, a sport analytics major with an information management and technology minor. “Everyone collects and uses data differently, so being able to see numerous perspectives from a league like Serie A was eye-opening.”

Adam Goodman ’25, a sport analytics major with an economics minor, admits he’s not the biggest soccer fan but says it was valuable for his career goals to understand how soccer teams at the highest level approach their analytics.

“I think the main takeaway in terms of my career was the change in the way I think,” Goodman says. “The program allowed me to immerse myself in all aspects of soccer analytics which, going forward, will change the way I approach future research.”

Making the Connections

In her previous position as an academic advisor in the Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University, Dorchester observed the value to students of traveling abroad and learning how different businesses operate. After she started working in the Sport Analytics program in the fall of 2022, Dorchester realized many sport analytics students were accelerating their studies and a semester abroad did not work within their timelines.

At Whitman, Dorchester says the school often used breaks between or during semesters for short-term immersion trips, and she thought the Sport Analytics program could construct a similar trip around Paul’s course because of the industry connections in Italy that had already been formed.

One of those connections is with the Saputo family, including Simone Saputo, who earned his sport management degree from Syracuse in 2021. Joey Saputo, Simone’s father, is chairman of Bologna FC 1909, a member of the Serie A league and one of the teams the students visited on their trip.

“One aspect of this trip that we are particularly proud of is the continued relationship with the members of the Saputo family who continue to provide opportunities that impact our students in the best way possible,” says Sport Analytics Program Manager Francesco Riverso. “We are eternally grateful for this partnership, which also includes a project-based experience that our sport analytics students are currently receiving while working with the Saputo’s other professional team, CF Montréal of Major League Soccer.”

Another key connection was with Lippie, who as co-faculty is a subject expert and has often taught classes within Paul’s course. In his roles with AS Roma, Lippie worked directly with first-team players and helped upgrade training methods and facilities to create an athlete-centric, high-performance culture.

In February 2023, Paul and Riverso contact Lippie about teaching and organizing a unique immersive experience for sport analytics students. The course would include a pre-trip curriculum that exposed the students to how analytics are currently being deployed in the top tiers of European soccer while also preparing them for how to get the most of out the spring break trip.

“My role was to provide the necessary context in the material I taught while sourcing guest lecturers who could speak to how data is being used in three critical areas: roster composition, physical performance enhancement, and match analysis,” says Lippie, whose son, Caden, is a sport analytics major in Falk.

Lippie also tapped his network of former Italian soccer colleagues from AS Roma – some of whom have since moved on to AC Milan – to line up a series of programmatic opportunities in both Milan and Rome.

“In my experience, the best education is achieved by a learn-by-doing approach combined with real-world experiences,” Lippie says. “This course was able to provide both and is another example of how the Sports Analytics program delivers on a unique sports data analytics value proposition that’s preparing the next generation of great sports industry leaders. Each student embraced the experience and exceeded my expectations for what they could learn and how they could apply it.”

When in Rome

When planning the trip, Dorchester made sure to incorporate visits to historical landmarks and other cultural excursions. To schedule those, she contracted with an educational travel company, WorldStrides, and collaborated with an advisor from Syracuse University Abroad.

The students gave the extracurricular visits a “pollice all’insù” – thumbs up in Italian.

“I didn’t realize the sheer amount of beautiful, historic buildings and sights that were just scattered around places like Florence and Rome. It seemed like everywhere I turned, there was a sight worth taking a picture of,” Graff says. “Being able to see sights and experience the culture everywhere we went, as well as experiencing a sport and a field I’m deeply passionate about, made it an incredible experience.”

A surprising highlight for the students and their chaperones was an Italian cooking class, where they made pasta from scratch and then enjoyed the fruits of their labor while dining near the Trevi Fountain in Rome.

“The most enjoyable part of our trip to Italy was sightseeing in each city and the amazing food,” says Silverstein ’26, a sport analytics major with an economics minor. “Every piece of food that I had while in Italy tasted great, and even trying new foods that I never thought I would enjoy was simply fantastic. Also, the sights and historical places we visited were breathtaking – the Vatican, Roman Colosseum, Michelangelo’s Statue of David, and so much more.”

Dorchester and Paul say the Sport Analytics program, with the support of the Department of Sport Management and Falk College, is committed to offering the course again in Spring 2025 with the eventual goal of expanding the opportunity to sport management students and traveling to other countries to observe and learn about sport and its global impact.

“I would tell any student who has an inkling of applying to this program to do it. Simply put, this was one of the best experiences of my life and I’m very happy I took this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to venture to Italy,” Silverstein says. “If you like soccer or not, any person who thinks they might want to go on this trip should apply because you’ll have a great time and appreciate Italy and soccer more.”

Goodman says students who make this trip in the future should know that the team officials are just as interest in learning about the students’ experiences as the students are interested in learning about the teams. These shared experiences and connections will help students as they pursue their professional careers, and perhaps some of them will end up working for soccer teams in Italy.

“I was surprised at how prepared I am coming from this program,” Goodman says. “This program provided a unique opportunity to tour teams and see first-hand the work done by analytics departments, and being able to compare that to what we work on at Syracuse in and out of class was very eye-opening.”