The Sports Management Association of Columbia (SMAC) is a student-led organization that supports all cohorts in Columbia’s M.S. in Sports Management program. The group’s mission is to enrich students’ educational experience through career-focused initiatives such as case studies, panels, networking events, conferences, and industry trips. They aim to bridge classroom learning with real-world exposure to the sports industry.
One of their significant initiatives in the last academic year was organizing a partnership with the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) and a student-led trip to the Impulse Summit in Switzerland, a one-week international conference that brings together students and professionals for workshops, panels, and networking across the global sports sector.
“This kind of experience offers students real-world exposure, direct interaction with executives, and access to niche areas of the sports business,” said SMAC President Michael Meadows-Smith. “It’s a huge advantage beyond the classroom.”
We recently spoke to Meadows-Smith about SMAC and how this experience was beneficial for both Sports Management students and FIS.
How has the Association evolved under your leadership?
We’ve worked to transform the SMAC board into a more collaborative and proactive team. Instead of relying on just the president, we now operate as a unified board, increasing the number and quality of events while enhancing student benefits in terms of learning, networking, and professional development.
How did the FIS come about?
During the Impulse Summit in Switzerland in November 2024, former President Leonie Bischofberger and I participated in a half-day case study led by FIS’s director of digital and innovation. Our team performed well, and afterward, we approached the FIS director about a potential collaboration. We followed up later that semester, and things progressed from there.
What made this partnership a good fit for both sides?
FIS is in a strategic growth phase, especially focused on attracting younger audiences and expanding geographically. They were eager for fresh, external ideas. Our students brought innovative thinking and research capabilities to the table at exactly the right time. FIS was receptive from the start and looking for creative input. They welcomed the collaboration with enthusiasm.
The students were excited and deeply engaged. Some had experience in snow sports or had previously interacted with FIS, and many students expressed new or renewed interest in working with winter sports organizations afterward.
What was the case study about?
Students were asked to choose between two topics:
- How can FIS become a platform for creators and develop new commercial assets?
- How can FIS diversify its business to engage recreational skiers and snowboarders?
These topics were selected by FIS and aligned with current sports industry trends like the rise of the creator economy and diversification toward recreational markets. Students worked in teams of three. They had access to FIS’s five-year strategic plan and additional resources, such as the FIS Impact Program.
How did FIS respond overall?
They were highly impressed with the quality of student work. They expressed intent to implement several ideas and are sending a thank-you gift to participants. They’ve also shown interest in reconnecting with Columbia students at the next Impulse Summit. One student was even offered a part-time role with FIS following the case study.
One team suggested using AR filters on ski slopes for social media engagement, targeting Gen Z. Another proposed “athlete takeover days” where popular figures create content for FIS. These ideas were especially well received by FIS.
Are there other similar collaborations underway?
Yes. We recently did a case study with a platform for athletes to leverage NIL opportunities, and another with SPORTFIVE, where students will work on marketing and present at their New York City office. We’re exploring more agency partnerships and expanding into areas like analytics, finance, and operations.
How can students get involved in future case studies?
Any student in the program can apply, regardless of background. When applications exceed available spots, we prioritize those who haven’t participated before or whose skills best align with the project’s goals.
What advice would you give students pursuing these opportunities?
Commit fully to the research and preparation. When presentation day arrives, your effort and expertise will shine—and you never know who might be in the audience.
About the Program
The Columbia University M.S. in Sports Management provides students with a comprehensive curriculum and access to sports industry practitioners and influencers. Students acquire skills in areas such as entrepreneurship and innovation, global sports management, facility and event management, and sports law and ethics.
The program is available for part-time or full-time enrollment. Learn more about the program here.
