Former Las Vegas Raider President, Marc Badain recently visited campus to speak to students in the Intercollegiate and Professional Sport Management (IPSM) program. As a prominent figure in the sport industry, he inspired and encouraged students to pursue careers in the rapidly growing Las Vegas sports market.
The IPSM program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in various roles within the sports world. It offers courses in sports marketing, governance, and event management, among other disciplines. Courses provide students with a holistic understanding of the industry and prepare them for success in the dynamic and competitive field.
Advice for Rookies
During his visit, Badain spoke to the class about his experience, sharing insights and advice on how to set themselves up for success. “Find a way to generate revenue,” he emphasized. Job candidates who prove themselves to be assets to the bottom line have a higher chance of going the distance. He also highlighted the importance of networking, tenacity, and a dedication to lifelong learning. He commended students for pursuing their degree, committing to the hard work, and being tenacious as they work to get their foot in the door within the competitive field.
Badain's visit was a significant boost to the program, highlighting its relevance and value in the growing sport landscape as it produces the future of sport professionals in Southern Nevada specifically. He praised the program's strong focus on practical experience and internships as a critical factor in building a strong network long before students complete their degrees.
In addition to the IPSM M.Ed. program, UNLV offers an undergraduate certificate in sport leadership & management and graduate certificate in college sport leadership. The programs emphasize experiential learning opportunities, including internships, volunteer work, and site visits. Designed to equip students with the skills necessary to lead and manage college sports programs, IPSM focuses on issues such as National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) compliance, diversity, and leadership development, providing students with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in college sports.
Building the Leaders of the Sport Capital of the World
Badain's visit to UNLV served as a reminder of the tremendous potential for growth in the Las Vegas sports market. With the recent arrival of the NFL's Raiders, spearheaded by Badain, the NHL's Golden Knights, and the WNBA's Aces, the Las Vegas sports market is experiencing unprecedented growth and attracting top talent from around the country. “There’s a lot of opportunities here. Vegas is on the upswing of its sports curve and UNLV has a lot to do with it.”
As a high caliber community partner, Badain’s success is a testament to his leadership and commitment to the growth of sport in Las Vegas. His visit is an indication of his passion and support of future sports leaders. The insight and advice he shared will serve as inspiration for students in the IPSM program, motivating them to pursue their careers with tenacity.
Badain’s willingness to engage with students highlights the relevance and value of the program in the rapidly growing Las Vegas sports market. UNLV's IPSM program is well-positioned to prepare students for success, and with the support of community partners like Marc Badain, the program will continue to produce top tier talent.