Oak View Group Unveils New Career Readiness Initiative
OVG's Ascend Program Aims to Bridge Opportunity Gaps
Oak View Group (OVG) has introduced a groundbreaking program called Ascend, focused on enhancing career readiness for underrepresented students in the sports, entertainment, and hospitality industries. This innovative program is designed to provide students with crucial skills, mentorship opportunities, and real-world experiences in these vibrant sectors. The Ascend initiative aligns with OVG's commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I), aimed at forging pathways for talented individuals who may face barriers in their career journeys.
Specialized Tracks for Diverse Talent
Ascend features multiple tracks, each tailored to specific demographics. Among them is Ascend HBCU, designed for students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Ascend HSI, which focuses on those from Hispanic Serving Institutions. There is also Ascend Women, catering to female professionals in sports and entertainment, Ascend Hospitality, aimed at promoting underrepresented groups in the hospitality sector, and Ascend Backstage, which targets aspiring venue management professionals. Each program variant provides essential training to build vital career skills.
Kickoff Event: HBCU Night and Ascend Backstage
To officially launch the Ascend initiative, OVG will host an exciting HBCU Night and Ascend Backstage event at CFG Bank Arena. This will accommodate a unique experience for 85 HBCU students, offering them an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at venue operations. Participants will engage in insightful expert-led panel discussions and a networking mixer designed to connect students with industry leaders.
Key Insights and Networking Opportunities
The HBCU Night will feature prominent speakers, including OVG executives and local community leaders, who will share their experiences and insights regarding careers in sports and entertainment. This unique opportunity allows students to better understand the industry and the significance of their diverse backgrounds.
Future Internship Opportunities
Furthering its commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent, OVG will open applications for the Ascend HBCU Internship Program. The program strives to provide paid internships to selected students across various fields, including marketing, sales, finance, and hospitality. Interns will participate in enriching activities, including career readiness webinars and mentorship with OVG leaders.
Comprehensive Program Benefits
The Ascend program includes various activities, such as interactive workshops, mentorship pairings, and collaborative capstone projects that challenge students to devise solutions for real-world problems in sports and entertainment. With these offerings, OVG aims to elevate the skill sets of participants, preparing them for successful careers in the industry.
Voices of Commitment
Leading the charge on this initiative, Dr. Debonair Oates-Primus, OVG's VP of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, expressed enthusiasm about the program's potential, highlighting the importance of experiential learning opportunities and the cultivation of diverse talent pipelines. Notably, Frank Remesch, SVP and General Manager of CFG Bank Arena, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of a diverse workforce that mirrors the community it serves.
Fearless Partnership for Enhanced Learning
In partnership with Fearless, Baltimore's largest minority-owned digital services integrator, this initiative will further enrich students' experiences. The collaboration allows students to gain insights into the live event operations space, essential for their successful careers.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Empowering Youth
The Ascend initiative is a testament to OVG’s dedication to empowering talent and providing transformative career opportunities in key industries. With programs like Ascend, OVG envisions a future where diverse individuals rise to success within sports, entertainment, and hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ascend program?
The Ascend program is a career readiness initiative launched by Oak View Group, aimed at equipping underrepresented students with necessary skills and mentorship in various industries.
Who can apply for the internship?
The internship program is open to students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Hispanic Serving Institutions.
When do applications open for the Ascend HBCU Internship?
Applications for the Ascend HBCU Internship Program open shortly after the New Year.
What opportunities does Ascend provide to participants?
Ascend offers career webinars, mentorship, hands-on experiences, and collaborative projects to enhance skills and career readiness.
How does OVG support diversity in hiring?
OVG actively seeks to create a workforce that reflects community diversity and emphasizes its commitment through programs like Ascend.
