CU-Lock Haven sport administration alumni recognized in 2024 class of IAVM Foundation's 30 UNDER 30

Commonwealth University-Lock Haven alumni Ryan Fink '17 and Ellie Chambers '18 have been recognized as honorees named to the prestigious International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) Foundation's 30 UNDER 30 Class of 2024.

The IAVM Foundation's 30 UNDER 30 program honors talented, young professionals in venue management, celebrating their dedication, innovation, and leadership. As members of the class of 2024, Fink and Chambers have demonstrated remarkable talent and relentless passion, setting new standards and driving positive change within their respective fields.

Ryan Fink '17

Ryan Fink, a 2017 graduate of Lock Haven with a bachelor's degree in sport administration, serves as the event manager at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center at Florida State University. His career journey includes notable positions such as operations supervisor for Penn State Athletics and stadium facilities intern with the Kansas City Chiefs. Fink attributes much of his success to his education at Lock Haven.

"My experience at The Haven certainly helped develop my career to where it is today. Without Lock Haven, I would never have been put into a position to win this prestigious award," Fink said. "I cannot thank Dr. Peter Campbell, Dr. Bridget Roun and the rest of the sport management faculty enough for their guidance and support."

"My Lock Haven professors were instrumental in helping me land my first few professional experiences and developing my core skills and attributes needed to be successful in this industry," he added.

Fink's impressive career includes managing over 225 guest services staff, planning and coordinating major events and collaborating with key stakeholders to execute large arena events.

Ellie Chambers '18

Ellie Chambers, a 2018 graduate of Lock Haven with a bachelor's degree in sport administration and a minor in business, is the team member and fan experience senior manager at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The stadium is home to the New York Giants and New York Jets professional sports teams. Chambers' career includes roles at the Tampa Bay Rays and Philadelphia Eagles, where she honed her skills in fan and guest services, event coordination and staff management.

"Lock Haven was a major stepping stone in my career. From exceptional lectures to passionate professors, with hands-on industry learning, conferences, the Sport Administration Society, and more, the foundation of my career was well prepared for life postgraduate," Chambers said. "Without the knowledge and support from the Sport Studies Department, I would not have been able to be awarded such an honor as IAVM's 30U30 Class of 2024."

Chambers manages a team of 600 guest services part-time staff and oversees all stadium events at MetLife Stadium, creating positive experiences for both team members and fans.

Fink's and Chambers' recognition by the IAVM Foundation is a testament to their innovation, expertise and leadership in the realm of venue management. Each of them is looking forward to expanding their impact, and further leaving their stamp on the industry in the years to come.