As we kick off May, we're celebrating 10 years of the Sports Product Management program with the launch of our instructor video series and the opportunity to connect with our talented students for summer projects. This month's newsletter is packed with can't-miss events, including a virtual women's panel, the Gather Outside Festival in Denver, and an SPM Open House. Dive in to learn more and stay connected!
Jennifer Nolfi
Director, UO Sports Product Management Program
UO Sports Product Management
May Newsletter
10 Years of SPM: Meet the Industry Leaders Behind Our Legacy
This year, the UO Sports Product Management master's program is celebrating 10 years of shaping talent for the industry!
Over the past decade, we've grown, evolved, and continued to push boundaries—and we're just getting started. To celebrate, we're spotlighting the incredible instructors behind the scenes. Each one brings real industry experience and has helped build and guide our program from the very beginning.
First is Elizabeth Brock-Jones, a principal innovator at Nike and our sports product development instructor.
Propel Your Projects Forward with Top Talent from the SPM Program
As we gear up for summer 2025, we're looking for internship and project opportunities for our Sports Product Management master's students. These hands-on experiences typically span 10–12 weeks, from mid-June to late August, and offer a unique chance for students to apply their product-specific knowledge and skills while gaining real-world experience.
By partnering with us, you'll gain access to passionate, innovative talent and play a key role in shaping the next generation of industry leaders.
If your brand or factory is interested in hosting an intern, contact Lesley Hollon, senior associate director of industry relationships and engagement.
Women Who Win Virtual Panel
Wednesday, May 21, 4:00–5:00 p.m. PT UO Business YouTube
Cost: Free
We are excited to partner with Launchbreak to host an inspiring virtual panel celebrating women athletes who've transformed their sports experiences into thriving careers.
Ever wonder how the grit, determination, and teamwork learned on the field can fuel success in business, innovation, and leadership? This dynamic discussion will showcase powerhouse female leaders who will share personal insights, stories, and tips on leveraging athletic backgrounds into impactful careers.
Visit our Eventbrite to see the lineup of speakers.
UO Sports Product Management Information Session
Wednesday, May 28, 4:00–5:00 p.m. PT
Virtual via Zoom
Cost: Free
A key differentiator of our MS Sports Product Management program is its intense focus on building skills in product creation through a multifunctional team. During your time in the program, you'll network and learn hands-on about the business of creating sports and outdoor footwear, apparel, and equipment from experienced industry leaders.
We have a few spots available to join us this fall! Register today to join us for an information session, during which we'll share an overview of our Portland and online master's programs.
Meet Us in Denver to Kick Off the Outside Summit and Festival
Gather Outside Festival with Basecamp Outdoor
Thursday, May 29, 4:00–6:00 p.m. MT (VIP hour is 3:00–4:00 p.m. MT)
McNichols Civic Center Building, 144 W. Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO 80204
Cost: Free
GATHER: Outside Festival is a career exploration event connecting job seekers with brands like Yeti, REI, Cotopaxi, Yeti, and The North Face. This event is FREE thanks to our UO Sports Product Management program.
Explore the heart of sports product innovation as you connect with industry-savvy alumni, meet our expert faculty, and tour our state-of-the-art Innovation Lab. Whether you're aspiring to break into the industry or elevate your existing career, this is your chance to see how our hands-on curriculum—and Portland's thriving sports business hub—can set you apart.
