The International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) is proud to announce the 30|UNDER|30 Class of 2026, recognizing thirty exceptional young professionals who are helping shape the future of the venue management industry.
Now celebrating its 11th year, the 30|UNDER|30 program honors emerging leaders who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to their venues, communities, and the advancement of the profession. Selected through a competitive application and judging process, this year’s class represents a diverse cross-section of venue types, disciplines, and career paths from across the industry.
These rising stars are already making an impact through innovative thinking, leadership, operational excellence, and a passion for creating memorable experiences for guests, clients, and communities. Their accomplishments reflect the talent, dedication, and forward-thinking mindset that will continue to drive the venue industry into the future.
The Class of 2026 will be formally recognized during VenueConnect 2026 in Indianapolis, where they will participate in professional development opportunities, networking events, and special recognition activities designed to celebrate their achievements and connect them with industry leaders.
“Each year, the 30|UNDER|30 program reminds us that the future of our industry is in very capable hands,” said Trevor Mitchell, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CDP, President & CEO of IAVM. “The members of the Class of 2026 have already distinguished themselves through their leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence. We are excited to celebrate their accomplishments and support their continued growth.”
Please join us in congratulating the 30|UNDER|30 Class of 2026!
Parker Arnholt, Director of Events, State Farm Center
Janelle Augustine, Event Services Manager, Broadmoor World Arena
Connor Ayers, Event Manager, Climate Pledge Arena
Jayda Bennett, Event Manager, SCHEELS Arena
Andrea (Annie) DiRenzo, Events and Operations Coordinator, Strathmore
Hattie Douglas, Special Events Coordinator, Walton Arts Center and Walmart AMP
Nicholas Frazzell, Manager, Security, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment / Ball Arena
Emily Gardner, Production Supervisor, Des Moines Performing Aarts
Lily Hesen, Senior Marketing Manager, Simmons Bank Arena
Addie Hillenburg, Guest Experience Manager, Chaifetz Arena – OVG
Emma Keider, Senior Marketing Manager, Desert Diamond Arena / Legends Global
Mylene Lamoureux, Client Services Manager, Rice-Eccles Stadium/Stadium, Arena and Camous Event Services
Lexi Lundy, Senior Event Manager, Owensboro Convention Center/Owensboro Sportscenter/Bluegrass Fieldhouse
Talya Mamane, Event Services Manager, Kaseya Center
Emily Martinez, Exhibitor Services Supervisor, San Diego Convention Center
Katie Masterson, Senior Manager of Event Services, Ensemble Arts Philly
Merrill Miller, Manager of Concerts, North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie/VenuWorks
Morgan Nyren, Event Manager, Tacoma Venues & Events – Tacoma Dome
Melanie Ortiz, Event Manager, Angel Of The Winds Arena/Oak View Group
Lea Raad, Security Operations Analyst, Prevent Advisors
Marissa Raiford, Box Office Manager, Department of Event and Venue Management at Kennesaw State University
Giovanny Romero, Director of Events, Snadragon Stadium/OVG360
Adriana Rosario Perez, Event Coordinator II, Ferst Center for the Arts/Georgia Tech
Alana Shields, Event Manager, Events DC
Jackson Short, Guest Services Manager, Moody Center/Oak View Group
Anna Stemsrud, Program Assistant/Hospitality Coordinator, Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center
Megan Thele, Creative Marketing Manager, Arvest Convention Center / BOK Center | Oak View Group
Dalton Williams, Marketing Manager, BOK Center
Caroline Yates, National Sales Manager, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Kara Zarfos, Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Target Center / Legends Global
