Abacoa & Alton Neighbors - March 2026

14 A B A C O A & A LT O N N E I G H B O R S | M A R C H 2 0 2 6 O n September 26, 2025, Keiser University’s Flagship Campus, along with students from Keiser’s Tampa campus, had the opportunity to visit the Miami Marlins baseball organization. While the visit took place last fall, as baseball season is now in full swing, reflecting on this experience highlights how the knowledge and connections gained continue to resonate with students pursuing careers in sports management. This trip gave the Sport Management students a valuable opportunity to hear directly from professionals working within the Marlins organization and learn how they built their careers. We first toured parts of the facility and passed through security. The outside of the stadium captured the South Florida atmosphere, with palm trees swaying in the wind, sunshine, and the energy of the crowd. We were then greeted by Samir Mekrami and seated in a conference room. The symposium took place before the game, giving students time to hear from the speakers and ask questions. Each individual explained their roles within the company and their daily responsibilities. They discussed their individual histories and how they joined the company. A key emphasis they all made was the value of networking, adaptability, and consistency over our careers. Bryan Rodgriguez Ballestero, Senior Coordinator of Experience and Promotions, made a strong impression on one Keiser University student, Jayden Mongiove. Jayden shared that Rodriguez’s story resonated with him as a former athlete transitioning into a sports career. Jayden also said the way Rodriguez entered the sports industry was similar to how he hopes to do so, and he described the experience as inclusive and educational. Skylah Klein, Coordinator of Partnership and Marketing, talked to us about how she was a D1 athlete and the challenges of balancing academics, athletics, and professional growth, which strongly relate to Keiser’s student-athlete population. She discussed tools that can be useful for building a professional presence and finding internships and job opportunities. Eric Sutcliffe, Director of Membership Experience, wanted us to ask more personal questions that may not typically come up in formal interviews. When asked whether he would choose a candidate with a strong resume over someone with fewer qualifications, he explained that he would interview both, but select the one with stronger communication and people skills. In his mind, the best hire is not just the most qualified person on paper, but the one who best fits the team and complements the people already in the workplace. This message boosted students’ confidence, showing that experience on paper is not always the most important factor. After the symposium, we were escorted to our seats for the game that night. Experiencing the stadium and the diverse fan environment was remarkable. A highlight of the night was when members of the Keiser University men’s baseball team started a chant in the third inning. The chant spread throughout the section and energized the crowd, showing how sports bring people together through shared passion and competition. For Keiser University sports management students, this experience provided a unique perspective on the sports industry and continues to influence academic and professional growth. Even though this visit took place last fall, it remains relevant during baseball season, as the lessons we gained continue to influence us in our daily lives and the workplace. We would like to give special thanks to Samir Mekrami, the Miami Marlins Manager of Business Development, and Professor Anthony Hilliard of Keiser University for putting together this incredible event. Participating in this meaningful experience between the Marlins and Keiser’s Sports Management Department was an invaluable experience as we continue our education. Keiser University Goes to theMarlins Symposiumand Game Keiser University – Flagship Campus - By Deirdre Donovan and Lucy Single - - Photo provided by Keiser University - Deirdre Donovan is a sports management student at Keiser University. She is currently pursuing both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Sport Management. As a dedicated college athlete, she is passionate about combining her athletic experience with her education to make an impact on the sports industry. Lucy Single is also a sports management student at Keiser University, and she plays on the Women’s Lacrosse team.