The Event Management program at UVU provides students with the foundational knowledge
and practical tools to be successful in the event industry. Graduates will emerge
with a broad skill set to successfully plan and manage small to large-scale events
from inception to implementation, including meetings, conventions, special events,
and large public events in roles across private, public and not-for-profit organizations.
Following industry standards, students learn all aspects of event management, including
strategic planning, communication, risk management, customer service, marketing, finance
and logistics. The event management degree incorporates core curriculum from both
the hospitality management and communication programs as well as core business classes
that makes it a well-rounded business degree. Students will be provided multiple opportunities
to interact and network with industry partners on in-class projects, real-world events,
and internships where coursework can be applied to real-world experiences.
Jessica Ballard is an Event Professional with over fifteen years of experience in
the education, non-profit and performing arts industries. She is a Professional in
Residence Faculty Member at Utah Valley University (UVU) in the Woodbury School of
Business teaching Event Planning/Management and other related courses for the Event
and Hospitality Management Program.
Jessica previously worked as the Senior Director of Executive Events at UVU planning
events for the institution such as galas, ceremonies, ribbon-cuttings, and other major
celebrations. Prior to UVU, she has managed events for the American Red Cross of Utah,
Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company, and Westminster College.
Jessica currently serves as a board member on the Young Leaders Advisory Board for
Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and as Past President of the UVU Chapter
of the Utah Women in Higher Education Network (UWHEN), and previously served as Chair
of Utah Event Tribe.
Jessica has a Master of Professional Communication Degree from Westminster College
of Salt Lake City. She is also a Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) and
Certified Meeting Professional (CMP). She has been recognized as a Fellow by the Higher
Education Academy.
" We value our partnership with UVU for many reasons, but primarily because UVU students come to us with passion, excitement, and a vested interest in furthering their careers in event management. I'm proud to share that we've extended employment opportunities to many of our interns upon their graduation. As such, the announcement of UVU's event management degree is another exciting step in the right direction preparing these students for a successful, future career in the hospitality industry."
“How fortunate we are in the hospitality and events world to have a premier Hospitality Management program at Utah Valley University that serves as a talent pipeline for our industry here locally. The addition of the Event Management Degree Program will further UVU’s reputation of sending out the best and brightest young professionals who are quickly turning into respected industry leaders.”
Contact Professor Jessica Ballard for more information
From Students to Leaders: Polish Your Career Journey
Contact Professor Jessica Ballard for more information
Contact Professor Jessica Ballard for more informationWhat can you do with a degree in event management? Check out some options below:
