News
News
JWU Students, Alums Supported Historic RI Football Club Match
The Rhode Island Football Club (RIFC) played its historic inaugural home game in Smithfield, Rhode Island on March 16, 2024 — aided by a dozen JWU students and alumni helping the professional soccer match run smoothly.
Although some have since moved on from RIFC, here’s our “team roster” of JWU talent whose assistance with event logistics helped make that March match magical, with their thoughts on their experience and what JWU skills they were able to apply in the stadium.
Allison Pangakis ‘08
Major: Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management (SEEM)
Position: general manager of food & beverage operations
What that entails: “I curate our Food Truck Village, research new products to sell in our concession stands, place and receive food and beverage orders and work with the bar service team to make sure every aspect of the onsite food and beverage experience is top notch. Our goal is to provide Rhode Islanders with the best possible live event experience.”
JWU skills used at RIFC: “Networking! I know that word feels overused at times, but it is the foundation for every success I have had in my career. Learning to put myself out into the industry I wanted to be a part of is the greatest gift JWU could have given me.”
Proudest RIFC moment: “Watching 5,000+ fans show up on opening day to celebrate everything our team and community is about was so special. The work leading up to that moment was very challenging. With so many hurdles and unknowns, I think it made the moment that much sweeter.”
Future plans: “My goal is to always work events that I am proud of, excited for and passionate about. I am fortunate to be able to say I am living that dream with RIFC and other events around the state that I am a part of.”
Britta Henry ’24 MBA
Major: MBA - Event Leadership
Position: part-time box office attendance
What that entails: “I sell walk-up tickets, troubleshoot different problems that the ticketing system or SeatGeek (our app platform) might have and hand credentials out to the vendors and security staff. From March–May our record number of walkups was 19. When we reapproached our strategy and had better marketing prior to game days, our record was 56 walkup tickets sold.”
JWU skills used at RIFC: “A good attitude is everything. At the box office, I am essentially the first face of the organization when guests walk up to purchase tickets, creating a first impression of the club. We're all there wanting to cheer on Rhode Island's professional sports team.”
Proudest RIFC moment: “When our ticket scanners were all malfunctioning prior to handing them to gate security. I was able to figure out the problem and log them back in, saving a HUGE headache.”
Future plans: “I currently have a full-time remote job in corporate events but always wanted my foot in the door at my local sporting teams; I used to work with the Providence Bruins. I plan to stay at my current job for a while, but I wouldn't be opposed to becoming an events director at a country club or something similar with a mix of all types of events under one roof.”
Dominique Labor ‘25
Major: Food & Beverage Industry Management/Baking & Pastry Arts
Position: concession stand staff member
What that entails: “Our focus is to attend to customers, keeping their snacks and drinks filled efficiently, as well as delivering snack kits to staff groups located around the stadium. In every game my team members and I understand each other better. It’s easier to notice how we can help each other when it comes to selling or refilling the snacks and reaching the products for the customer, and I think the work dynamic is smoother.”
JWU skills used at RIFC: “I've learned that in the food industry, sense of urgency and customer satisfaction are crucial to the success of a business. At RIFC I have been able to apply these skills by having a mindset that every pre-game task needs to be completed before the start of the game so that the rest of the night works smoothly.”
Proudest RIFC moment: “I think the moments where you get to find the solution to a problem is rewarding because you see how you were part in making a person's day a little better. Little situations have allowed me to grow, because I think back on my responses to certain issues and notice that I handle situations with a solution-driven mind more than I did when I started helping with the games.”
Future plans: “My ultimate dream job is to own a bakery or a dessert-focused restaurant; I love baking and seeing how food brings people together. I have understood the importance of hospitality through family, church, friends and school events. This experience at RIFC has helped me put into perspective of how food is a crucial part for people to have an exceptional experience at events.”
Erin Shaheen ‘24
Major: Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management (SEEM)
Position: originally joined as operations intern; transitioned to event operations coordinator
What that entails: “Each week is filled with different projects and goals to ensure a successful match day. I plan for the matches, collaborate with other departments to understand their needs, work with external vendors and create procedures to train staff for the upcoming season. My projects included managing credentials, placing signage and developing the Fan Code of Conduct. On match days, it’s all hands on deck to transform Beirne Stadium into a Rhode Island FC stadium, then revert it back after the match. The operations team is responsible for overseeing this entire transition.”
JWU skills used at RIFC: “Teamwork and communication are essential in any organization, but they’re critical to the success of a professional sports event. There are many moving parts on match days, so staying on top of everything is key. One vital skill I've applied is creating and managing detailed schedules and lists, such as credential distribution and task lists, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Microsoft Excel has been particularly useful for staying organized and preparing everything in advance.”
Proudest RIFC moment: “The inaugural match. I was responsible for helping with decisions regarding signage, event setup and creating procedures such as the A-Z guide, the Fan Code of Conduct and the credentialing process — all of which were implemented for the first time in club history. Seeing everything come together and knowing my contributions had a lasting impact was incredibly rewarding.”
Future plans: “My ultimate dream job is director of operations. This role entails significant responsibility and decision-making that can greatly influence how events are run. I am passionate about implementing processes and seeing them come to life to enhance the fan experience. While the position often operates behind the scenes, allowing other departments to shine, it is crucial for the success of the events. I aspire to take on this role because it combines my love for sports with the ability to create seamless, memorable experiences for fans.”
Jack Sacco ‘25
Major: Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management (SEEM)
Position: concessions stand worker
What that entails: “We typically review our inventory to ensure we will have enough of everything for the match; if not, we grab stock. We then deliver our beverage & snack baskets to corresponding locations around the stadium, such as the press/production box and the Party Shack trailer. Each event, our main goals are to have a seamless and positive game experience both within and outside the stands for the fans and all guests. As my coworkers and team members and I have gotten further into the season, we definitely have found our groove. Each match, we walk out earlier, knowing we completed everything we needed to, and we could do it in an efficient yet quick manner.”
JWU skills used at RIFC: “The most important skill that I was able to transfer from JWU to RIFC is collaboration. Going into my first shift, I did not know who any of my coworkers would be, or what to expect. Using my collaboration skills from inside the classroom helped me to settle in quickly and get to work with my new coworkers.”
Proudest RIFC moment: “At one match, Allison, the food & beverage manager, was out of town during our shift. This meant we did not have her there to help us throughout the match. My coworkers and I went into this shift a bit nervous, having no idea of how the night would end. But we were entirely successful in hosting and completing an entire match on our own. This was a great feat as we felt confident that we were trained and informed well enough to complete our job.”
Future plans: “My ultimate dream job would consist of working for either an NFL organization or a multipurpose venue that may also encompass NFL games. I also would like to intertwine social media into whichever position I land, as that has always been something I have wanted to pursue as well.”
James Hagedoorn ‘23
Major: Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management (SEEM)
Position: box office attendant
What that entails: “I arrange the media day bibs for photographers, videographers and other media day member,s then log them in and out of the stadium. After this we switch to selling tickets, taking walkups and trying to put them in the best available seats for their desired fan experience. Our goal is to sell the most tickets possible and to smoothly answer any customer questions.”
JWU skills used at RIFC: “Probably sales techniques with selling people upgraded seats. At first I’ll gauge their interest, but if price is an issue I’ll work with them on finding the best available seating.”
Proudest RIFC moment: “Being able to help during our biggest rush of walkup, helping over 50 walk-ins get tickets and pack the stadium for a sellout game. It was also memorable getting to see the new stadium being built; just knowing that they'd upgrade to a bigger stadium and bring soccer back to Rhode Island was an amazing feeling.”
Future plans: “Working in ticket sales for a sports team. I’m a huge sports fan and love getting to see new stadiums, so being able to help people get the best seats in a stadium they've never been to would be amazing.”
Mackenzie Weber ‘24
Major: Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management (SEEM)
Position: concession stand staff member
What that entails: “I got to experience how Allison operates as the director and work with her to produce the opening day communication and event setup & breakdown. One of the projects I got to experience was setup of the VIP tent during opening day, which was a great experience. Other shifts I oversaw running the concession stands with other employees serving ticketed guests in a timely manner.”
JWU skills used at RIFC: “Some skills that I brought to the table which is vital in an event operation were communication, being detail-oriented and being customer-oriented.”
Proudest RIFC moment: “Seeing the attendance on opening day with bringing back a professional soccer team. I wouldn’t have thought we could sell over 5,000 tickets and scan in over 3,200 tickets!”
Future plans: “My ultimate dream job is working with a professional sports team, specifically in hockey or football, and being within the events, sales, ticketing or partnership activation specialty as a vice president. I would also enjoy continuing to work for the PGA Tour & TPC Network at either the headquarters or affiliated tournament host properties for the professional tour.”
Michelle Charron ‘27
Major: Hospitality Management
Position: concession stand staff member
What that entails: “Day-to-day, my tasks involved stocking shelves and the fridge, wiping down surfaces, preparing popcorn, delivering snack boxes and closing the stand. My overarching goal was to enhance fan engagement by providing excellent service and ensuring a smooth operation.”
JWU skills used at RIFC: “At JWU, I developed skills in communication and event management. I applied these skills at RIFC by effectively interacting with customers and addressing their needs throughout the night. My ability to anticipate what needed to be done and execute tasks efficiently was also valuable.”
Proudest RIFC moment: “Stepping out of my comfort zone and working effectively as a team. It was rewarding to engage with fans and customers, which helped me grow personally and professionally. Being behind the scenes and interacting with everyone involved in making the game successful has been particularly fulfilling.”
Future plans: “I am certain that I want to pursue a career in hospitality and event management.”
Rain Keefe ‘26
Major: Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management (SEEM)
Position: concession stand staff member
What that entails: “It was a team effort where we all worked together to organize concessions before the gate opens and before kickoff. Our main goal was to work as efficiently as possible so the night can go smoothly. Over the course of the season, I have stepped up a few times to help Allison with POS systems for everyone selling food/beverage on the game grounds.”
JWU skills used at RIFC: “Applying my communication skills to work in concessions where I have to communicate with my coworkers and project my voice when needed to customers, applying work ethic skills I was taught through numerous different classes here at JWU and being able to put my best foot forward and voice my opinions on how to improve as a whole.”
Proudest RIFC moment: “It was less of a personal moment and more of a night to remember that I shared with the people working with me that night. It was a game where we found out we didn't have popcorn in stock to make or sell for that game, so someone had to run to Walmart and get popcorn kernels and oil. We had started a lot later on popcorn that night than we usually do, so we didn't have much to work with, but we pulled through the night and it was a success. Things like this help me remember to lean on the people you work with and any kinks in the road will be worked out somehow.”
Future plans: “I know I want to work in a sports environment that is lively. I envision working the World Cup one day. I love the idea of being behind the scenes of something that big and impactful, and it would mean even more because I have a special passion for soccer.”
Soh Kone ‘26
Major: Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management (SEEM)
Position: concession stand staff member
What that entails: “Usually, our day starts about 3 hours before the gates open, where we check what snacks and drinks we need to restock for the match. We also make deliveries to other stations around the stadium, providing them with snacks and drinks to have during games, and at the end of the night we collect the leftovers.”
JWU skills used at RIFC: “My communication and organization skills. My communication skills improved here at JWU, which is very vital to my work at RIFC as I need to communicate with not only the consumers but with our behind-the-scenes crew. Organization is also very important at my work at RIFC because we as vendors need to know where all of our products are at any time so we won't have issues when it comes to selling our product.” Proudest RIFC moment: “I've had a lot of great moments here at RIFC, but if I had to choose one, it would be our first match ever. We had a sold-out crowd and the energy was out of this world. It feels great to be part of history and to be known for working the first-ever game in RIFC history.”
Future plans: “I see myself using some of the things I learned from Allison and applying them to my skill set for my future career. My ultimate Dream job is to be an athletic director at a Division I collegiate school or become an operations manager for an NBA team.”
How JWU Fostered RIFC Connections
SEEM Department Chair/Associate Professor Lee Esckilsen, recipient of the 2023 Education & Service Award from the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM), loves keeping in touch with former students — like Allison Pangakis ‘08, who is the first woman operations manager for the Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals and has freelanced event management all over the world. “She’s very creative, and she’s been in charge of expansive food truck operations, so the RIFC invited her to manage concessions at their temporary stadium,” he notes. “When the RIFC called me for a reference, I told them she’s fabulous and that if you can get her to work for you, she’ll do a great job.”
Esckilsen welcomes alumni such as Allison to visit classes to share work and internships opportunities with students — which is how many of the students profiled here connected with the RIFC — and he cheers on students whose internships turn into permanent employment, as in Erin Shaheen’s case.
How Students Can Meet Employers’ Needs
Esckilsen joins other JWU professors in working to help students overcome obstacles such as COVID-19 pandemic’s detrimental impact on social development. “We work really hard to ensure that students develop all skills, particularly in communication and problem-solving,” he reports — which aligns with the GMAC’s 2024 Corporate Recruiters Survey listing those among the top skills employers seek.
“Employers also like how JWU advocates for our students to get experiential education while in school,” he adds, referring to JWU’s various Directed Experiential Education (DEE), internship and part-time work opportunities. “We really harp on students that the key to their success is not only getting a good degree but also with experience to match it — plus communication skills to explain to employers why they’re the best person for the job. We help them express how they add value to organizations.”
What’s Next for RIFC and JWU
The RIFC has an official home in the works: The Stadium at Tidewater Landing, a new 10,500-seat facility slated to open in Pawtucket, Rhode Island in 2025. Erin Shaheen helped the operations department plan Tidewater Landing’s Steel Topping-Off Ceremony: “Watching the final piece of steel, covered in signatures from select fans, players, staff and my own, being placed was an unforgettable moment. It represented our hard work and the promise of a bright future for the club.” To foster employer/student connections with Tidewater Landing, Esckilsen has drawn on his vast experience of developing relationships with organizations, sports teams and event venues. He is currently connecting Levy Restaurants, a national food and beverage hospitality company that managers national events, with JWU’s administrators from the College of Food, Innovation & Technology and College of Hospitality Management. “We’re working on creating a pipeline, connecting students and alums with future opportunities in every aspect of event management,” Esckilsen reports.
Esckilsen also has a next goal (pun unintended): getting JWU students and graduates involved in the FIFA World Cup when it’s co-hosted in Boston in 2026.
