The revamped track's curriculum, developed by Kinesiology Chair Ann Hickey ’99, Senior Lecturer in Kinesiology Melanie Householder ’05, and Business Department Co-chair Kristen Smirnov, blends subjects from different departments for a unique interdisciplinary experience.
Students will study biomechanics and financial accounting while taking classes like Social Issues in Sport. Former Los Angeles Dodgers general manager Fred Claire also suggested to Hickey that Tim Mead, former president of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum who worked with the Los Angeles Angels organization for 40 years, teach Sports Business, Leadership, and Communication.
“We're excited to bring it back,” Hickey said, adding that Mead is scouting for sports law professors and other guest lecturers. “Having access to someone who works in that field will be great for our students.”
Students already got a taste of Mead’s teaching this spring. Highlights of the semester included mock press conferences and a field trip to Angel Stadium for a baseball game. At the stadium, students toured the press boxes and various suites, meeting executives like Angels President John Carpino.
Kinesiology major Chianti Raddavero ’27, who is contemplating a career in physical therapy, appreciated how well-rounded the class was.
“Understanding how to work as a team, how to function as a unit, and knowing how the business works was super important, regardless of whether I decide to go work with a professional team or in a clinical setting,” Raddavero said. “It's really good to know how to get a group together and all focus on one common goal.”
Nathan Sherman ’25 appreciated how Mead gave students the tools and exposure to be ready after college. He graduated in May and is working as a tournament operations intern this summer with the American Junior Golf Association.
“He gave us the opportunity to interact with a lot of different professionals in different fields in the sports world,” Sherman said. “Those experiences were very insightful to prepare me for this internship and then life after school.”
To register for the sports management track, students can contact Hickey at ahickey@whittier.edu or the Office of the Registrar at registrar@whittier.edu.
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