Dana Drewniak '17 Uses SAEM Degree to Keep Basketball Events Exciting in Cleveland
Meet Dana Drewniak
- Job Title & Employer
- Senior Group Events Specialist, Cleveland Cavaliers
- Major/Program
- Sports, Arts, Entertainment & Music Business
- Graduation
- May 2017
- College Activities
- SAEM Club
- Scholarships
- Vice Presidential and Rowland School of Business
- Hometown
- Chagrin Falls, Ohio
- High School
- Kenston High School
- Now Living In
- Ohio City, Ohio
- Hobbies & Interests
- I am a big concert goer! My most recent show I had front row tickets to the Jonas Brothers.
"I am extremely grateful for the investment Point Park University made in me not only while I was a student there, but as an alumna as well. You can tell the professors really care about the success of their students and that is invaluable!"
How did Point Park’s SAEM program help prepare you for your career?
In the live entertainment industry, hands-on experience is truly invaluable. Point Park University’s SAEM program encourages, and requires, students to network and participate in job shadows and internships. Had I not been encouraged to complete a job shadow during my freshman year — an opportunity I had with the Cleveland Cavaliers — who knows where I would be today!
What does a 'day on the job' look like?
One thing that has kept me in my role for so long is that no two days ever look the same. Much of my work on non-game days involves booking our on-court experiences, including national anthem performances, halftime shows and cheer tunnels. On game nights, my focus shifts to executing those activations and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Can you give a brief history of your career in sports? How did you go from Pittsburgh, to Orlando, to Cleveland?
I grew up in a suburb of Cleveland and made my way to Pittsburgh for college. My senior year, I was very open to moving and checking out a new city, and I was fortunate to land a role with the Orlando Magic! I loved my time there and glad that I gained an experienceout of my comfort zone. I knew Cleveland was always home for me, so when the opportunity presented itself to move there, I took it and have been here for the past eight years.
Working in group ticket sales, you work with Point Park University students as well. As an alumna, what is it like to work with the next generation of sports business students?
Getting the chance to help students, especially from Point Park University, is one of the more meaningful aspects of my role. It is so fulfilling to know I am able to make an impact on the next generation of the industry! My goal is to one day very soon have someone from Point Park on the Cavaliers sales floor next to me.
What is the experience like moving from the classroom to a career? What advice would you give to current students following your path?
I work very closely with our entry level reps, and I know the adjustment from college life to the grind of working in sports can be challenging. I think going into it with an open mind is key. I always tell students your first year out of college should theoretically be the hardest you work in your career. Your first year is your chance to differentiate yourself and prove yourself regardless of the field you enter. From there, your resume and experience will speak for itself.
Why should students be interested in pursuing a career in the sports industry?
Working in sports is not for the weak! There will be 12 hour days, you will miss holidays, birthdays and other events. But, you get to be a part of something epic! After nine seasons, I still feel the magic every time I step on the court. If you want to wake up every day and be excited and passionate about what you do, working in sports is for you!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I am extremely grateful for the investment Point Park made in me not only while I was a student there, but as an alumna as well. You can tell the professors really care about the success of their students and that is invaluable!