The Summit, hosted by RMU’s Rockwell School of Business on Friday, October 24, is expected to draw more than 300 attendees, including RMU sport management students, visiting college and high school students and industry professionals from across the region.

This year’s Summit is designed to bridge education with industry engagement, giving students unparalleled access to professionals working in sports, entertainment and live events.

The day will begin at 9 a.m. with the Opening Panel: “The NFL Draft Comes to Pittsburgh,” a timely discussion on the opportunities, logistics and community impact of one of the NFL’s most-watched events.

Featured panelists include:

• Jim Britt, Vice President, Sports Events – VisitPittsburgh
• Steve Farago, Director of Event Operations – National Football League (NFL)
• Daniel Rooney, Vice President, Business Development & Strategy – Pittsburgh Steelers
• Troy Schooley, CEO – P3R

The panel will be moderated by Larry Richert, Morning Host at KDKA Radio, a veteran journalist with decades of experience covering Pittsburgh sports and major events.

“The Sport Management Summit is our marquee professional development event,” said Dr. Armand Buzzelli, Assistant Professor of Sport Management and Coordinator of Sport Management Events at RMU. “This year’s opening panel on the NFL Draft is a perfect example of how we connect students with timely, real-world conversations happening in the sports industry.”

Following the panel, participants will take part in interactive workshops on live events, sporting goods and sales as well as roundtable networking sessions with industry leaders. High school students will also attend a dedicated alumni panel aimed at inspiring the next generation of sport management professionals.

At 12 p.m., the Summit will feature a keynote address from Ryan Shazier, former Pittsburgh Steeler and founder of the Ryan Shazier Fund for Spinal Rehabilitation, who will share his personal story and insights on resilience, leadership and life beyond the game.

The day will conclude with the Opportunities Fair, where students can connect with organizations offering internships, part-time roles and full-time positions. Participating organizations include the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Cleveland Cavaliers, Washington Commanders, Gamma Sports, Dick’s Sporting Goods, P3R and more.