Meet Hayden Hord: A Rising Star from North Carolina

Age: 22
Born: Waxhaw, N.C.
College: University of North Carolina at Charlotte (graduated in May)
Fellowship organization: CAA Icon

From the Tar Heel State to CAA Icon

Hey, ever heard of Hayden Hord? This young dynamo just graduated from UNC Charlotte. She jumped straight into the thick of it with CAA Icon. Hailing from Waxhaw, North Carolina, she worked on the Carolina Panthers’ stadium renovation project. Imagine cutting your teeth in meetings with owners, architects, and sports honchos while getting some real-deal project management chops.

Words of Wisdom: Comfort vs. Curiosity

So, what’s the best advice Hayden soaked up this summer? You’ve got to swap comfort for curiosity. Feeling out of your depth? That’s when you’re growing the most. Keep asking questions and never stop learning. Hayden believes stepping out of her comfort zone made all the difference.

Mastering the Art of Adaptability

What skill did Hayden sharpen the most? Adaptability, folks. The sports biz moves fast, and she’s learned to roll with it, meeting tight project deadlines. Every day throws a curveball, and she’s ready to catch it.

Inspired by the Industry’s Finest

Who inspires Hayden in the sports world? Melissa Heiter, the Executive Vice President at CAA Icon. Mentors like her can shape careers. For more on influential women in sports management, check Forbes.

Shaping the Future of Sports Venues

Hayden’s pumped to transform game-day experiences. She’s keen on crafting community-focused spaces that transcend sports. She wants venues that feel like home not just for die-hard fans, but everyone. Picture a sports community that’s genuinely open and accessible.

The Colleague Consensus: Hayden’s Winning Pitch

If her colleagues were pitching her to a future boss, they’d say Hayden’s the kind of person who lights up a room. She asks the right questions and ensures she delivers on her promises. Now, who wouldn’t want her on their team?

Advice for the Next CAA Icon Fellow

To the next fellow stepping into Hayden’s shoes: get comfy with discomfort. It’s crucial to dive into meetings headfirst and voice up when you’re lost. Volunteer beyond what you know. Remember, trading comfort for curiosity builds your confidence.

Looking Ahead: Hayden’s 10-Year Vision

Flash forward a decade; what’s on Hayden’s vision board? A balanced life where going to work is a daily thrill. She dreams of nurturing relationships, making a community impact, and maybe snagging a spot on the Forty Under 40 list. Ambitious, right?

Conclusion

In the end, Hayden Hord isn’t just building a career. She’s building a future for sports that’s vibrant and inclusive. If only every newcomer had her drive and imagination. Watch out, world; Hayden’s just getting started.

For more on transforming sports experiences, check out this fascinating article.