Bob Stefanski spent his professional career in the food and beverage industry, entering the venue side of concessions and catering at Pine Knob Music Theater, Clarkston, Mich., in 1980.

He spent the next 24 years with Ogden/Aramark. He passed away March 14, at the age of 70, in Detroit, where he and his wife Susie had retired after he spent another 10 years with Olympia Entertainment.

Word spread through the live event hospitality industry slowly, though there was no official obituary or planned memorial. Susie said Bob did not want a fuss.

But friends fuss, so John Lamkin told Chris Bigelow who told me, followed by several phone calls that included Jim Rozes, all retired or soon to retire food service historians and alumni.

The business in the 80s and 90s was shaped by some big personalities, and Stefanski was one of them. He started at the prestigious Pine Knob as GM and quickly moved up to district manager for Ogden. His trajectory was steady to regional manager, then area manager. By the time John Lamkin joined Ogden, Stefanski was area manager and his territory included the Louisiana Superdome, where Lamkin worked.

Bob and Susie Stefanski at IAAM in Reno, Nev., in 2004. (Photo by Venues Today)

When Ogden hired Fred Ordower and Doug Logan and started looking at venue management as well as food and drink, Stefanski was moved to the West Coast to handle Ogden Food Services. There he worked closely with venue managers like Brad Mayne, CVE, who was opening Arrowhead Pond (now the Honda Center) in Anaheim, Calif., Lamkin recalled.

Mayne recalls that when Ogden Entertainment decided to pursue private management as well as food and beverage for venues, Mayne was promoted to sell that service in the Western region. He often traveled with Stefanski to pitch Ogden as a one stop shop to venue owners. “Bob was an incredible individual. He was driven to grow the number of venues we had and was very strategic in how he did that. I trusted him. He took care of people,” Mayne recalled.

Mayne left Ogden in 1998, but he was there for the beginnings of ideas like Tinseltown, an experiential food and drink outlet that was envisioned as part and parcel with a venue destination. Stefanski worked hard to make Tinseltown work.

Rozes also worked with Stefanski while he was on the West Coast. “He was a good guy to work for,” Rozes noted. “He was responsible for building Ogden’s West Coast business,” including securing the Staples Center (now crypto.com Arena) contract in Los Angeles.

“He worked hard. He was always trying to acquire new business,” Rozes said, adding it wasn’t just traditional live entertainment venues. Stefanski was up for any challenge, including options like Tinseltown in Anaheim. Guests dressed up like they were attending the Academy Awards. “It was an interactive dining experience. It’s no longer there, of course,” he said. But it was indicative of Stefanski’s willingness to take chances.

In 2000, when the feds approved a $236 million acquisition of Ogden by Aramark, Stefanski was an SVP at Ogden. The transition was smooth. He became a VP for Aramark’s Sports & Entertainment division and continued to find business and service existing accounts.

Bob and Susie Stefanski were in attendance at almost every district (now region) meeting of IAAM (now IAVM), as well as the national convention, now VenueConnect. Lamkin especially remembers some good times at District 3 and District 5. Lamkin and his wife, Elaine, were often in the company of the Stefanskis, even on adventures like a trip to Hong Kong for Ogden that resulted in a visit to Macau when it was a two-casino town. Ogden had far-reaching tentacles and even operated food and drink at the airport in Hong Kong.

“He was a character. He made friends with people very easily,” Lamkin said

Joseph Psuik III, CVE, embraced venue management on the recommendation of Carol Wallace, who lured him from the city administration side with the truly prophetic words, “We have much more fun in our industry.”

Psuik came on board as director of operations at the Colorado Convention Center, Denver, at Wallace’s behest. He helped open the building in June of 1990. Wallace, however, was recruited by the San Diego Convention Center. Thereafter, their running joke was “you’re leaving me here?” Two years later, he followed her to California.

Now he’s left us here. Psuik, who joined IAVM in December 1989, passed away at his retirement home in Loveland, Colo., on April 1 at the age of 82.

He came to the venue side of the business from the perspective of a trained actor. After winning several acting awards and learning backstage production, Psuik earned a master’s degree in theatre from BYU and started his career backstage in professional theatres in San Francisco.

Joseph Psuik III, CVE

He then taught theatre at Loretto Heights College in Denver. He affiliated with the International Association of Theatrical Stage Employees Union, Local 7, and worked in the theatres in downtown Denver doing lighting, technical support and direction. He ran concerts and sporting events at McNichols Sports Arena, and concerts at Red Rocks amphitheater. He served as union president twice.

He first got involved with the building of the Denver Convention Center, working for the city, and then moved into venue administration. He moved to San Diego to help oversee the expansion of the San Diego Convention Center. He served as COO of that facility.

Wallace recalled that she recruited Psuik because, “other than being a wonderful person, he was thorough, hardworking, and great to work with. He was very detail oriented.” She noted his skill at negotiating contracts, partially a result of his union days.

He was very active with IAVM, most notably in safety and security. He was a member of the Safety & Security Task Force from 2001-2004 and part of the Academy of Venue Safety and Security faculty from 2005-2007. Psuik chaired IAVM’s Convention Center Sector Committee from 1999-2003, the Leadership Institute Council from 2003-2005, and the Academy Board of Trustees from 2004-2007.

Psuik achieved his Certified Venue Executive designation in 2004 and was recognized with the IAVM Chair’s Citation in 2006. He retired as an honorary member in 2015.

Born in North Carolina July 29, 1942, to Joseph Psuik Jr. and Lilly Psuik, he grew up mostly in Wisconsin, spending summers with family in Georgia. He saw his first Green Bay Packers game at age 6 and loved the Packers forevermore. He was also a great fan of Harley Davidson and with his wife, Sybil, crossed the country multiple times on his bike.

He moved to California in his junior year of high school, and proudly served in the US Navy aboard the ammunition ship, USS Pyro, during the Vietnam conflict. In 1964 he and his sweetheart, Sybil, married and started their 60-year marriage.

Upon retirement, Joe and Sybil moved back to Colorado to the city of love – Loveland. He again worked with the union and then completely retired. He also served in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in several capacities. He and Sybil loved being with the expanding family, attending the temple in Fort Collins, and spending time in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Beloved husband, father of four, grandfather of 10 and great-grandfather of 18, Psuik has taken his last curtain call on the stage of life. He is survived by Sybil, daughters Jennifer, Jessica, and Julianne, all 10 grands and 18 greats, sister Mary, brother Tom, their spouses, and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, son Joshua, and brother Bob.

Memorial service plans are pending.

The IAVM Foundation is honored to announce Allen Johnson, CVE, CPM, Chief Venues Officer for the City of Orlando, as the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Foundation Legacy Award. This award honors an individual whose commitment and contributions have left a lasting legacy on the Foundation and the venue management industry at large.

“It is my honor to announce Allen Johnson, CVE, CMP, as the 2025 IAVM Foundation Legacy Award recipient,” said Trevor Mitchell, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CDP, IAVM President & CEO. “His contributions to IAVM—as a past Foundation Chair, committee member, and tireless advocate—have left a lasting impact on our community. We are proud to recognize Allen and celebrate all he has done to elevate the industry.”

Since 2004, Johnson has served as Chief Venues Officer for the City of Orlando’s Venues Department, overseeing operations for high-profile facilities such as the Kia Center (formerly Amway Center), Camping World Stadium, Tinker Field, Harry P. Leu Gardens, and the Mennello Museum of American Art. His leadership also extended to the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre and the Expo Center during his tenure.

With over four decades of experience in the venue industry, Johnson’s impact reaches far beyond his local community. A longtime IAVM member and past Chair and Trustee of the IAVM Foundation Board of Trustees, he currently serves on the IAVM Arenas Committee and holds board positions with the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, Florida Citrus Sports, and several other civic and professional organizations. His dedication to mentoring and public service has shaped the careers of countless industry professionals.

“Allen Johnson is the epitome of selfless dedication and unwavering generosity,” stated Kerry Painter, CVE, CEM, CMP, Chair of the IAVM Foundation Board of Trustees. “Year after year, he goes above and beyond to support the IAVM Foundation, quietly but powerfully contributing in ways that have an immeasurable impact. His consistent donation of Orlando packages for the Silent Auction is not only a significant revenue generator for the Foundation, but it also creates lasting memories for our members and their families, offering them unforgettable experiences that truly enrich their lives. It is with deep gratitude and admiration that we honor Allen with the Foundation Legacy Award. This recognition is a small reflection of the immense impact he has had, and we are truly privileged to celebrate his incredible contributions.”

Johnson’s career has been marked by numerous accolades, including finalist nominations for Pollstar’s Facility Executive of the Year, IAVM’s Venue Excellence Award, and the UK’s TheStadiumBusiness Customer Experience Award.

In recognition of his extensive civic contributions, Johnson was named the 2019 Downtowner of the Year by the Downtown Orlando Partnership and received the 2020 SPORTYS Award from the Greater Orlando Sports Commission as Central Florida’s Sports Executive of the Year.

Johnson will be presented the Legacy Award during IAVM’s VenueConnect Annual Conference and Trade Show, July 28–31, in New Orleans, LA.

IAVM has announced Erik Waldman, CVE, Senior Vice President of Client Services at TVS, as the recipient of the 2025 Joseph J. Anzivino Distinguished Allied Award. This award, one of the most significant honors bestowed upon an Allied Member of IAVM, recognizes exemplary contributions, leadership, and service to the venue management industry and the Association.

“Erik Waldman has been a steadfast advocate for IAVM’s Allied Members, fostering meaningful collaboration between venue professionals and industry partners,” stated Adam Cook, CVE, Chair of the IAVM Board of Directors. “His dedication to innovation, mentorship, and strengthening the Allied community and our industry makes him a truly deserving recipient of the Anzivino Award.”

With more than 20 years of experience in the venue industry, Waldman brings a distinctive blend of operational leadership and design strategy to the field. As Senior Vice President of Client Services at TVS, an architectural and interior design firm specializing in public assembly venues, he leverages his deep operational expertise to guide projects that enhance guest experience, boost operational efficiency, and unlock revenue-generating opportunities.

Prior to joining TVS, Waldman held several leadership roles at the Georgia World Congress Center Authority, where he played a pivotal role in executing major events, including Super Bowl LIII. His previous experience also includes managing the Georgia Dome and serving as Vice President and General Manager of the Amerant Bank Arena (formerly BankAtlantic Center), home to the Florida Panthers Hockey Club.

Throughout his career, Erik has remained committed to advancing the industry through active involvement on boards and committees within various international associations. His user-focused approach to venue design and operations, coupled with his collaborative spirit, has made a lasting impact on both the Allied community and venue professionals around the world.

Trevor Mitchell, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CDP, IAVM President & CEO, also praised Waldman’s leadership, stating, “Erik’s commitment to advancing IAVM and elevating the value of Allied Members has been unwavering. His leadership and vision have consistently set a high standard for collaboration and progress. Erik’s influence on both his peers and the broader IAVM community is profound, and his recognition with the Joseph J. Anzivino Award is a well-earned testament to his exceptional contributions to the industry at large.”

In response to receiving the Joseph J. Anzivino Distinguished Allied Award, Waldman said, “I am honored and grateful to IAVM’s Allied Committee for this recognition. After more than two decades in an industry that drives innovation and excellence, receiving the 2025 Joseph J. Anzivino Distinguished Allied Award is deeply meaningful. This award reinforces my commitment to the field, and I look forward to continuing to support its growth and impact.”

Waldman will be presented his award during IAVM’s VenueConnect Annual Conference and Trade Show, July 28–31, in New Orleans, LA.

IAVM is proud to announce Michael Marion, CVE, General Manager of Simmons Bank Arena in North Little Rock, Arkansas, as the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Charles A. McElravy Award. This award, one of the highest honors in the venue management industry, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and service to IAVM and the profession.

“Michael’s dedication to the venue management industry and his unwavering commitment to mentorship, innovation, and service have left an indelible mark on IAVM and the profession as a whole,” stated Adam Cook, CVE, Chair of the IAVM Board of Directors. “His leadership exemplifies the highest standards of excellence, making him a truly deserving recipient of this year’s McElravy Award.”

Marion’s career in the venue management industry has been defined by his unwavering dedication and diverse experience. Born and raised in Tupelo, Mississippi, Michael’s professional journey began in the music industry, where he advised the Music Maker Productions concert committee at Mississippi State University. During this time, he helped book iconic artists like Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, and Jimmy Buffett. He later worked as an agent for Triad Artists in Los Angeles, representing legendary performers such as Tina Turner, Steve Winwood, and Whitney Houston.

In 1992, Michael transitioned to arena management, serving as Director of the Tupelo Coliseum (now Cadence Arena), where he booked top-tier acts such as the Eagles, Tom Petty, and Van Halen. Since 1997, he has served as General Manager of Simmons Bank Arena, overseeing its success in hosting major acts like The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, and many others. His exceptional work in venue management earned him recognition as Pollstar Magazine’s Facility Executive of the Year in 2004.

A dedicated member of IAVM since 1992, Michael served as the Chair of the IAVM Board of Directors from 2018 to 2019 and continues to serve on the VMS Board of Regents. Michael’s leadership has had a lasting impact on IAVM and the industry at large.

Trevor Mitchell, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CDP, IAVM President & CEO, also reflected on Michael’s contributions, stating, “Michael’s dedication to the venue management industry and his unwavering commitment to mentorship, innovation, and service have left an indelible mark on IAVM and the profession as a whole, making him a truly deserving recipient of this year’s McElravy Award.”

In response to receiving the Charles A. McElravy Award, Michael Marion said, “Receiving the Charles A. McElravy Award feels like winning the floor pass lottery to a Bruce Springsteen concert—an honor I never saw coming but deeply appreciate! A big thank you to the International Association of Venue Managers for this recognition—it’s truly a highlight of my career. Here’s to continuing to elevate the venues we love, one unforgettable event at a time!”

Marion will be presented his award during IAVM’s VenueConnect Annual Conference and Trade Show, July 28-31, in New Orleans, LA.