On any given day at Neumann University, Professor Lanzillo may move from a School of Business meeting to mentoring a student, then step into a classroom discussion centered on the forever changing sports industry.
Maybe even after that, discuss a student’s classes, internships, and future as their advisor. It’s a dynamic balance and one that reflects both her leadership and the culture of the university’s Sports Management Program.
Serving as Associate Dean, Program director, Professor, Advisor, and Faculty Athletics Representative, Lanzillo plays a central role in shaping not only the program, but the students within it.
At the core, she keeps her focus simple.
“The students! It starts and ends with the students,” Lanzillo said. “If you’re not engaged, excited, and reactive, it won’t matter.
The Sports management program at Neumann has been developing for over two decades. Founded more than 25 years ago by Dr. Sandy Slabik, the program has grown into one that produces graduates working across the country in various areas of the sports industry.
“I don’t run it – I have the privilege of running something that’s not mine,” Lanzillo said humbly. “Tiny little Neumann has produced many careers that span all across the country.”
That mindset of humility and growth is reflected in the program’s approach. With the sports industry constantly evolving, Lanzillo emphasizes preparing students for more than just current roles.
“We prepare students for jobs that do not exist yet,” she said.
That preparation goes beyond the classroom. Faculty members bring industry experience directly into their teaching, allowing students to learn from professionals who have worked in the field.
“Our faculty all come from the industry,” Lanzillo said. “It’s important for students to learn about where they want to go from people who have been there.”
That real-world focus is echoed by faculty across the program. Professor Regusa described the curriculum as “personal, engaging, and grounded in real-world experiences,” noting that students are consistently exposed to current events and realistic scenarios within sports business.
Dr. Eric Wellington, Provost, emphasized the importance of hands-on learning. “Students learn from industry professionals in all areas of the sports industry. Additionally, the program requires students to get their ‘hands dirty’ by planning and running events on their own.”
For students, those opportunities are already making an impact.
Freshman John Soeffing has already completed two internships with professional sports teams, while Faith Weaver credits the program with giving her behind-the-scenes access, including experiences with the Philadelphia Philles.
“I always wanted to be around sports my entire life,” Faith said. “When I got accepted, Dr. J wrote me a handwritten letter- that really meant something.”
Michael Neumann, a student in the program, highlighted the unique opportunities he has had.
“I’ve had the opportunity to work for the Lancaster stormers, Delaware Blue Coats, and even win a Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles last season,” he said
Beyond experiences, students consistently point to Lanzillo’s influence on their personal and professional growth. Michael can recall Lanzillo believing in him early.
“I had a rough high school experience and never had someone believe in me,” he said. “Dr. Lanzillo made me comfortable being myself and taking risks.”
Faith Weaver echoed that sentiment. “She pushed me into the person I am now,” Faith said. “She helped me get out of my shell and set me up for the future.”
Her impact extends beyond students to colleagues. Professor Talasnik described an immediate connection when they first met, noting their shared goals for student success and program growth.
Dr. Lanzillo’s connection to athletics through her role as faculty Athletics Representative further strengthens the program, giving her access to the NCAA and allowing her to connect students with broader opportunities.
“Networking and internships are essential,” Lanzillo said. “You can’t just come to class, get a 4.0, and think you’ll get a job. I never applied for any job; I got hired because of the people who knew me.”
That philosophy has become the foundation of the program.
At Neumann, preparation means more than earning a degree. It means gaining experience, building relationships, and stepping into an industry with confidence.
And with leadership that spans classrooms, offices, and athletics, the Sports Management program continues to do exactly that – preparing students not just for jobs, but for futures still being created.
