By Iris Serrano

Whether you’re in the major leagues or a major news market, the sports media landscape is undergoing dramatic change. 

That’s why the College of Media, Communication and Information at the University of Colorado Boulder is hosting a daylong event, showcasing both the university’s thought leadership in sports media and its sizable alumni representation in the industry. 

Notably, the Feb. 23 event will not be limited to traditional broadcast journalism. Guests representing a range of careers—communications management, public relations, social media creation and management, marketing, and more—will attend to share their expertise with CU students.

“The summit will give students insight into the diverse opportunities that can come with a career in sports and give them an overview of what they can be,” said Marina Dmukhovskaya, associate director of the sports media minor. “And in order for you to understand what you can be, you need to listen to other people's stories, get introduced to their careers.”

More: CMCI's sports media minor is a major-league credential

The agenda includes four sessions, as well as opportunities for students to network with presenters and other industry guests:  

• CU Boulder Athletics and the Prime Effect: Bigger than Football.
• NHL and NBA Champions: Sports Media Industry in Colorado.
• Finding and Telling Impactful Stories in Sports: New Storylines and New Audiences.
• The Future Generation of Sports Media: Early Career Tips for Students.

The summit will explore the transition from being a sports fan to learning about the industry and beginning to think about sports as a potential career.

“If somebody is a fan, that will be a great way to start to show up and hear how their talents and skills–and the classes they're taking–can be applied toward the industry,” Dmukhovskaya said. 

Not only will students have a chance to hear from a variety of professionals, but they will also have the advantage of interacting with people like Mike Davies (Jour’94), executive vice president of Fox Sports, and New York Times sportswriter John Branch (Bus’89; MJour’96). Dmukhovskaya urged students who attend to take advantage of the chance to network with these experts.

“When panelists are grabbing coffee with students, I would say to introduce yourself and be professional,” Dmukhovskaya said. “This could be a great opportunity to connect with someone who can offer an internship or other professional development experience.”