Missouri Southern holding Rod Anderson Sport and Recreation Management Symposium

(From Missouri Southern State University)

Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) proudly hosts the 3rd Annual Rod Anderson Sport and Recreation Management Symposium on March 2, 2026, featuring a keynote address by Dr. Jason Pappas of Florida State University (FSU). The Symposium brings global and local sport industry expertise to students, faculty, administrators, and the community to highlight the power of sport in our region. Earlier in the day, sports and recreation students will engage in hands-on, immersive learning experiences with Dr. Pappas. Later, his keynote will offer expert insight into current trends in athletic administration and how they influence athletics at all levels.

“It is an honor to be part of the Rod Anderson Sport and Recreation Management Symposium,” said Dr. Pappas. “I am passionate about creating hands-on learning opportunities that connect students directly with the sport industry through internships, mentorship, and real-world experiences. By helping students turn knowledge into action, I hope to contribute to developing confident, innovative leaders who will shape the future of sport and recreation management.”

As a highly respected sport management expert and accomplished educator from FSU, Dr. Pappas contributes significantly to the industry’s future. He has received numerous honors for his dedication. His unwavering commitment to transformative learning as the Sport Management Internship Program coordinator surpasses academia. He facilitates immersive learning, enhancing students’ understanding of the field’s complexities, and equipping them with invaluable insights to bolster their careers. 

Dr. Pappas is also the co-author of Masters of the Game, a book that explores the journeys of sports executives. He integrates these narratives into his teaching to prepare students for leadership in the sport industry.

Dr. Pappas’ inspiring career spans professional sport and higher education. He has worked with the NFL’s Carolina Panthers and held leadership roles in athletic academic support at the University of South Carolina and the University of Southern California. Additionally, he has collaborated with renowned coaches Bobby Bowden, Lou Holtz, Steve Spurrier, and Pete Carroll. These experiences make Dr. Pappas’ perspective is especially relevant to today’s sport industry. He embodies the excellence this symposium stands for.

About Rod Anderson Sport and Recreation Management Symposium

The Rod Anderson Sport and Recreation Management Symposium is open to students, faculty, administrators, and community members. The event will be held in the Ron Richard Athletic Center on the MSSU campus March 2, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The evening social begins at 6 p.m., followed by the keynote address at 6:30 p.m. For more information and to register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/mssu.