Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program

Shaping Tomorrow's Sports Industry Leaders

The Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program is a 12-credit, interdisciplinary learning experience designed for undergraduate students at the University of Maryland who aspire to lead and innovate in the sports industry.

Through a combination of specialized coursework, real-world consulting projects, and industry engagement, students gain the knowledge, experience, and network to launch meaningful careers in sports management.

The program brings together the expertise of the Robert H. Smith School of Business, the Department of Kinesiology in the School of Public Health, the Shirley Povich Center for Sports Journalism, and Maryland Athletics—offering a truly dynamic, hands-on approach to learning that reflects the collaborative nature of the sports industry.

Explore Our Program

Curriculum Admissions Community & Events Partners & Supporters Maryland Sports Business Conference

About Schanwald SMP

At the University of Maryland’s Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program, we prepare adaptable, forward-thinking leaders to make a lasting impact in the global sports industry. Through rigorous academics, hands-on learning, and powerful industry connections, our students gain the insight, integrity, and innovative mindset to navigate the fast-paced world of sports with confidence, collaboration, and purpose.

The Schanwald Sports Management Program empowers students to become adaptable, ethical and innovative leaders in the sports industry. Our program goals reflect our commitment to academic rigor, hands-on learning and meaningful industry engagement.

Build a Strong Foundation in Sports Management
Develop versatile skills in management, marketing and finance — and learn to apply them strategically across the dynamic sports landscape.
Think Critically and Solve Real-World Challenges
Leverage research, analytical reasoning and design thinking to evaluate opportunities and create forward-thinking solutions to complex industry issues.
Communicate with Clarity and Impact
Strengthen written and verbal communication to convey insights and recommendations persuasively in professional sports settings.
Lead and Collaborate Across Teams
Cultivate teamwork, leadership and interpersonal skills that promote collaboration, adaptability and mutual respect in multidisciplinary environments.
Grow Your Network and Career Readiness
Engage with industry professionals, explore diverse career pathways and apply classroom learning through experiential opportunities that prepare you to make a lasting impact in sports management.

Our values guide how we teach, learn and lead. They reflect our commitment to developing adaptable, ethical and innovative professionals who will shape the future of the sports industry.

Innovation: We embrace change and encourage creative problem-solving — equipping students to thrive in an ever-evolving sports industry.
Community: We cultivate a supportive, inclusive environment where students, faculty, alumni and industry professionals connect, collaborate and grow together.
Ethics: We uphold integrity, fairness and accountability in all that we do, preparing students to lead with professionalism and make principled decisions that elevate the field.
Leadership: We inspire students to become confident, forward-thinking leaders who drive positive change and set new standards of excellence within the sports industry.
Excellence: We are dedicated to the highest standards in academics and experiential learning — empowering students to achieve their goals and make meaningful contributions to the world of sports.

Champions of Your Success

At the heart of the Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program is a dedicated team of industry experts, passionate educators and supportive staff who are committed to helping you reach your goals. With experience spanning professional sports, collegiate athletics, sports marketing and more, our team brings insider knowledge and valuable connections to the classroom.

We’re here to inspire, guide and challenge you as you navigate your path in the dynamic sports industry. Whether you’re learning from faculty or seeking advice from staff, you’ll find a team that’s invested in your success every step of the way.

Get to know the people who make the Schanwald Sports Management Program more than a program — it’s your launchpad for an extraordinary career!

Program Staff

Tori Shay
Program Director, Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program

Ella Wilson
Program Coordinator, Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program

Amy Bielicki
Program Manager, Maryland Sports Business Conference

Valentyna Breslawec
Graduate Assistant

Faculty Leadership Team

Michel Wedel
Interim Faculty Director, Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program
Distinguished University Professor & Pepsi Chair in Consumer Science, Robert H. Smith School of Business

Sue Sherburne
Executive Associate Athletic Director & Senior Woman Administrator, Maryland Athletics

Joseph Bailey
Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs
Associate Research Professor, Robert H. Smith School of Business

Michael Brown
Professor and Chair of the Department of Kinesiology, School of Public Health

Mark Hyman
Professor of the Practice, George Solomon Endowed Chair in Sports Journalism
Director, The Shirley Povic Center for Sports Journalism, Phillip Merrill College of Journalism

The Schanwald Sports Management Program is an extraordinary gateway for students looking to make their mark in the sports industry. This transformational program combines cutting-edge coursework with immersive, hands-on experiences, giving students the tools to rise above the competition and craft standout résumés. Beyond that, it cultivates a powerhouse network of alumni and industry leaders who are not just opening doors but actively mentoring the next generation of sports professionals. This program is a career-launching game changer.

Doron Tamari ‘11

Senior Director, International Marketing & Innovation

BSE Global

Sports Management Advisory Council

The Sports Management Advisory Council is made up of esteemed University of Maryland alumni and friends who work or are closely connected to the sports management industry. The goal of SMAC is to leverage the expertise and insights of our advisory council members to provide strategic guidance, expand networks and partnerships, and offer mentorship and leadership to students within the Sports Management Program. This collective effort aims to enhance the program's alignment with industry trends, foster valuable collaborations, and empower students and emerging professionals to thrive in their careers in the sports management field. We thank each of the following individuals for their contributions to our program.

Tish Carmona ’17
Contractual Marketing Manager
WNBA