Professional Sports Reps Gather at HU For 'Career In Sports' Symposium

Panelists John Shumate, Cathy Jerome, and Allison Tucker.

Some of the biggest names in sports and marketing were on hand yesterday to speak to Howard University School of Business students about the ins and outs of working in professional sports.

As part of the university's Speaker Series iniative, in partnership with the National Association of Black Sports Professionals, the heavy hitting sport execs shared with students how they got started in professional sports (internship), what it takes to land the job (networking and self promotion), what one can expect, and how to make sure you don't burn bridges once you're hired.

Panelists included:

John Shumate, regional sports marketing manager for Gatorade; Cathy Jerome , Washington Wizards' corporate sponsorship exec (sorry, no update on Gilbert was given); Washington Redskins Premium Seating sales representative, Angela Gray; Halleema Nash, Community Relations Assistant for the Chicago Bulls; Washington Nationals Sr. Director of Production & Entertainment, Jackie Coleman; Allison Tucker, Vice President, Corporate Partnerships and Business Development for the NFL Players Association NFLPA; and Bruce Wimbish, PR/Communications exec for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Wimbish jokingly told the assembled students, "It's not like we tried to see the Wizards three straight seasons in the Playoffs."

The panelists told the students it was tough pulling the intern gigs, but that their hard work and persistence got them the positions they now hold.

"I love waking up and going to work everyday", said Halleemah Nash.

Other tidbits shared with the students, eager to get their feet wet in the industry, were...

"Be teachable, don't burn bridges, listen twice as much as you talk, and show what value you have", advised 'Skins sales rep, Angela Gray.

Perks for attending the symposium found students on the receiving end of tickets to an upcoming Wizards game, and tickets to the upcoming Redskins vs Dallas Cowboys football game.

The symposium was coordinated in part by Harold Gray, director of the Center for Professional Development, and comes on the heels of this week's National Black MBA Association being held at the DC Convention Center.

For info on the HU School of B, click here.

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Photos.