3:15-4:30 p.m.
Nov. 7
Franklin Hall, room 114
Producing, directing, on-air reporting and the fan experience. Explore the many sides of sports media. Panelists include:
Moderator: Associate professor Nicky Lewis
BA'10, deputy editor, The Ringer
Matt oversees NBA coverage at The Ringer. He worked at Sports Illustrated for nearly a decade, rising from summer intern to assistant managing editor. He is also an adjunct professor for The Media School and a member of the alumni board.
BA'22, PR coordinator, Chip Ganassi Racing
Colin Kulpa, a PR coordinator with Chip Ganassi Racing, tells the stories of CGR's NTT INDYCAR SERIES team. Kulpa develops and executes PR strategy across endemic, local, national, and international media. He supports at-track and off-track media availability and appearances with leadership, management, and drivers. The team, with drivers Alex Palou, Scott Dixon, and Kyffin Simpson, has won three consecutive INDYCAR championships, including six of the last eight, and won the 2025 Indianapolis 500.
BA’91, CEO, Pacers Sports & Entertainment
As the CEO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Mel oversees operations for the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, Noblesville Boom, and Gainbridge Fieldhouse. She led the $400 million renovation of Gainbridge Fieldhouse, rebranded the G League team, and is spearheading a $78 million Indiana Fever performance center set to open in 2027. A South Bend native and former political advisor, Raines has over 30 years of experience spanning corporate, legislative, and public affairs and was named one of USA Today’s Women of the Year in 2025.
