8 Niagara University students score 'Super Sunday' experience

Niagara University Press Release & Photo

Eight students from Niagara University’s College of Hospitality, Sport, and Tourism Management are headed to New Orleans to see what goes into organizing the National Football League’s showcase event as they work behind the scenes at Super Bowl LIX for a one-of-a-kind experiential learning opportunity.

The students left Tuesday for Caesars Superdome, where the Kansas City Chiefs will take on the Philadelphia Eagles on Super Bowl Sunday. On the days leading up to the big game, the students will participate in a variety of tasks at the NFL Experience presented by Panini at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. As an integral part of these celebratory events and activities, they will learn what skills are needed to host and execute a major hospitality, sport, and tourism event.

On game day, the students will activate the fans through games and activities as they enter the stadium.

This marks the ninth year in a row that NU has sent students to the Super Bowl to participate in this immersion experience.

"Niagara University is excited to once again provide this experience to students from the college's three academic programs,” said Brandi Guerinot, acting dean of the college. “The students will not only witness one of the largest events in the world, but they will also play an integral role in the fan experience of this one-of-a-kind event. Opportunities such as this demonstrate the interconnectedness between the hospitality, sport and tourism industries, and the value of students experiencing work opportunities that involve all three."

Participating students include:

• Brady Abel, Lancaster
• Nicholas Aronica, Grand Island
• Alexander Bialek, Attica
• Matthew Dollard, Caledonia
• Maddie Hayes, Lake View
• Taylor Mielke, Ransomville
• Austin Robideau, Lockport
• Kreedon Rogers, Lee Center

The students submitted resumes, cover letters, and had an in-person interview before being selected for one of the eight coveted spots.

Onsite service-learning experiences are offered regularly by NU’s College of Hospitality, Sport, and Tourism Management. For example, sport management students have volunteered during Major League Baseball’s spring training and the NCAA Final Four.