Sarah Myer, the Chief of Staff and Strategy at Indiana Sports Corp, is a driving force behind Indianapolis’ thriving sports and events landscape. With a career spanning from arts marketing to orchestrating major sporting events, Myer has become an indispensable figure in the city’s event planning ecosystem.
Myer’s journey began at Butler University, where she first volunteered for Indiana Sports Corp during the 2004 World Swimming Championships. This experience planted the seeds for her future career. After graduating, she worked for Nuvo Newsweekly and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, honing her skills in event promotion and marketing.
In 2019, Myer joined Indiana Sports Corp, bringing her diverse experience to the sports world. Her timing couldn’t have been more challenging or opportune, as she soon found herself at the helm of organizing the entire 2021 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reflecting on this monumental task, Myer shares, “I called my family and I sat down with my now fiance and I said, ‘Hey, like I’m going to give everything to this because I know if this is successful, like this is going to change my career.'” This dedication exemplifies Myer’s approach to her work – all-in, with a clear vision of the potential impact.
Myer’s leadership style is marked by empathy and a collaborative spirit. She emphasizes the importance of listening and involving diverse perspectives in decision-making. “If you have certain people in the room, you’re probably missing some perspectives,” Myer notes, highlighting her commitment to inclusive planning.
One of Myer’s most recent triumphs was directing the 2024 U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials. This event held special significance for her, bringing her career full circle from her first Sports Corp volunteer experience. “To see these athletes and there’s more than a thousand of them competing for 52 spots on the team. That’s just wild,” Myer enthuses, underscoring the emotional impact of the event.
Beyond her professional achievements, Myer is passionate about community involvement and mentoring the next generation of event planners. Her advice to aspiring professionals in the field is clear: “Show up, step up. And I mean, half of the battle is showing up to something, but stepping up and raising your hand takes a little bit more effort.”
As Indianapolis continues to cement its reputation as a premier host for major sporting events, Sarah Myer stands at the forefront, ensuring that each event not only succeeds but also leaves a lasting positive impact on the community. Her vision, dedication, and collaborative approach are shaping the future of sports and events in Indianapolis and beyond.
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