Ken Schumann
Director of Athletics
Pacific University
503-352-2180
Email: schumank@pacificu.edu
Twitter: @kenschumann
Table of Contents:
In this interview Ken talks about his highly successful fundraising event, Pacific University Legends, a unique entertainment and golf event that will generate $250,000 for intercollegiate athletics this year. The event is hosted by Pacific Trustee and KISS lead guitar player Tommy Thayer.
Interview with Ken Schumann, Director of Athletics at Pacific University in Oregon.
Prior to being named Director of Athletics ten years ago, Ken served as the head men’s basketball coach and Associate Athletics Director.
Link to Pacific University Legends.
Keys to running a successful event
- MAKE YOUR EVENT UNIQUE
There are lots of golf events out there. Find some way that makes your event different from the rest and provides an experience people won’t get elsewhere. - HOST THE EVENT AT AN “EXCLUSIVE” GOLF VENUE
Choose a course that not everyone has access to, like private clubs. - INVOLVE KEY ALUMNI AND BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEMBERS
Identify prominent, successful individuals who can participate, promote and bring others into your event. - KEEP IT FRESH
Don’t let the event become stale or stagnant by simply repeating the same old thing. Change the venue and featured program. - BE INNOVATIVE
Find ways to do something out of the ordinary. - BE WILLING TO TAKE A RISK
With higher risk comes higher rewards. - START WITH A PLAN
Develop a sound business plan for your event.
Thoughts on Leadership
- COMMUNICATION IS KEY
Leaders must communicate well with a wider variety of constituents and communicate regularly. - HAVE A VISION
Vision must include clear goals, promote buy-in from all involved and a strategic plan to attain the vision. - LEAD BY EXAMPLE
Don’t have expectations of others that you don’t have for yourself. - DEMONSTRATE PASSION, ENERGY AND BELIEF IN WHAT YOU ARE DOING
Advice for ‘Up and Comers’
- Set clear personal career goals.
- Have a plan.
- Make yourself valuable in every role you have.
- Show loyalty.
- Develop your personal network and relationships.
- Be patient.
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