Ferris State University Hospitality Management students will be in a group headed
to Aspen, Colorado, for X Games Aspen 2023, Jan. 27-29, at the Buttermilk Ski Resort.
The relationship between Ferris State University’s Hospitality Management program and the X Games continues. Students will travel to Aspen, Colorado, for X Games Aspen 2023, Jan. 27-29, at the Buttermilk Ski Resort. This trip provides collaborative and educational opportunities with MSP Sports Capital, a global organization that has gained a majority interest in the event.
Amy Dorey, an associate professor and program coordinator for Hospitality Management, said the participants have enjoyed each journey as students fill staff roles for Winter X Games and other action sports competitions overseen by ESPN Productions, which maintains a minority, non-controlling position for the gathering of world-class competitors and musical performers.
“The ESPN years presented a great relationship for us, where we have served as one of those schools invited to work on the presentation of X Games,” Dorey said. “We are excited to be a part of the support for brand advancement through the leadership of MSP Sports Capital.”
Dorey said the relationship with ESPN Properties is a point of pride for the Hospitality Management program. She noted that many students select their schools because of their placement opportunities with globally recognized events.
“There is significant interest in the educational community to have what we have enjoyed, being part of the X Games presentation,” she said. “Our students know what this exposure can mean for them. So, they are excited and inspired to take part each year.”
Dorey said organizers solidify Hospitality Management student assignments after confirmation of bookings for entertainment and athletes.
“We know going into this year that two students will support social media creation with ESPN Properties,” Dorey said. “We often find our placements at competition zones and the music festival venues, which prove to be an incredibly powerful learning experience and resume asset for our participants. It has opened doors for our graduates.”
Dorey is also a liaison to the event development team at X Games, beyond advising students and traveling with the group.
“We have been great at adapting as necessary once we arrive on site,” Dorey said. “X Games management always strives to maximize the opportunities afforded to our students.”