Angelina Termunde

Meet Angelina!

Angelina Termunde grew up in Utah and graduated from the University of Utah in 2020 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Strategic Communications. With a lifelong passion for sports and athletics, she knew early on that she wanted to build a career in major league sports. While studying and completing her degree, Termunde interned with the University’s athletics department for two seasons. Since graduating, she has worked for the Utah Grizzlies and currently works as an Account Manager at Kroenke Sports and Entertainment, the ownership group of the Colorado Avalanche and Denver Nuggets.

 

Q: What made you decide to study at the U and why Communication?

A: I grew up in Salt Lake City, and always dreamed of attending the University of Utah. Coming from a family of proud U alumni, I’ve always been a Ute fan. My grandfather attended the U, and was a star kicker on the football team during the early 80’s.

I chose to major in Strategic Communications because writing and critical thinking have always come naturally to me. It's something I’ve always enjoyed and excelled at! I also knew that communication would be a valuable skill in any industry.

 

Q: What is your day-to-day like as an Account Manager?

A: I love my role as an Account Manager for Kroenke Sports and Entertainment, where I oversee client activation and partnerships for the Colorado Avalanche and Denver Nuggets! My largest client is Southwest Airlines, the official airline partner of both teams. With our season starting up on October 12th, we hold weekly meetings to align on their marketing strategy and seasonal plans. I essentially serve as the liaison between Southwest and the many different departments in our building such as marketing, game presentation, community relations, etc. to ensure that all deliverables are properly planned and executed. Once the season kicks off, we are required on-site for about 9 games, managing interns, ensuring clients activations are happening, and getting proof of performance photos for season recaps. Although we are only required to work 9 games, I often attend 20-30 throughout the season for both teams since Southwest Airlines sponsors Division Rivalry games on the Avalanche side and Mile High Community Nights on the Nuggets side which is a big chunk of games for each team. Every game looks different depending on what sponsors are activating so there is definitely never a dull moment!

 

Q: What advice would you give to current humanities students?

A: Remember that you don’t need a specific degree to work in the sports industry, experience is key! It is never too early to start interning, and if possible, I would suggest starting as early as your freshman year. Look for internship positions available with the University’s athletics department, and utilize the career services the college has to offer to assist in finding an internship.

 

Q: What impact has your education from the College of Humanities had on your life?

A: My education from the College of Humanities truly helped prepare me for my career in the sports world. It encouraged me to travel and explore the world around me, while the connections and conversations I had with fellow students studying humanities provided valuable real-world insights.

 

Q: What advice would you give to graduating students?

A: Don’t give up and trust the process! When I was looking for a new position, I applied to almost 70 jobs across the nation in the sports industry. I was offered my current position because of hard work and determination.

When starting out, take any position you can to get your foot in the door, especially in minor league sports. This will help you build your network and establish important connections.

 

Q: What is your favorite part about being an Account Manager?

A: My favorite part of being an Account Manager is collaborating with Southwest Airlines to plan community relations events. We partner with Southwest Airlines to organize events like VIP Skates and Court of Dreams which most clients utilize for their internal staff but Southwest is such an incredible company and they donate these events to local nonprofits to give back to the Denver community which is so special! These events give the non-profits the ability to skate on the ice/play on the court where our talented players play every day and we sometimes are able to have players participate at these events with meet-and-greets and autograph signings. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of something that engages and benefits the community!

After working in the sports industry for about 7 years now, I also really enjoy being able to witness how sports can bring all types of people from different backgrounds together to root for their favorite team

 

Q: What is the best professional advice you’ve ever received?

A: Have a positive go-getter attitude! Going out of your way to ask people how you can assist them with any task, no matter how small it may be, goes a long way. Especially in the beginning of your career, saying yes to any and all tasks is crucial when trying to build your resume and network.

While in an entry-level role at the Grizzlies, I took on multiple roles as an Account Manager, Game Operations Director, and Social Media Manager and I have no regrets! It pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me invaluable lessons along the way that have helped me in my career here in Denver.