For Kodi Brenner ’25 (West Unity, Ohio), the future is bright, and the opportunities are boundless. As a Sport Management major at Marietta College, she’s had the chance to explore her passion for sports operations through hands-on experiences and now a highly sought-after internship with the NCAA.
Recently, Brenner faced a tough decision – accepting an internship with the NCAA or USA Softball. Ultimately, she chose the NCAA, drawn to the opportunity to work on the operations side of the Women’s College Basketball Academy.
“As a softball player, I’ve always dreamed of attending the Women’s College World Series,” Brenner says. “But the NCAA internship in Indianapolis offered more accommodations that fit my needs for the summer.”
Brenner’s journey at Marietta College has been marked by a commitment to gaining real-world experience and building a robust portfolio. From working at the Boca Raton Bowl to completing a job shadow at the University of Michigan, she is actively pursuing opportunities to explore her interests and hone her skills.
“When I first started, I thought I wanted to do social media,” Brenner says. "After working with ESPN Palm Beach, I realized that operations might better fit my personality. I thrive in fast-paced environments, and the NCAA internship is the perfect way to dive deeper into operations."
Brenner’s decision to transfer to Marietta College has proven invaluable. It has provided her with a supportive academic environment and connections within the industry that have helped her grow tremendously.
Associate Professor of Sport Management Rick Smith commends Brenner’s drive and commitment, noting that she’s a fantastic example of how Marietta’s Sport Management students are building strong portfolios and gaining valuable experience.
“Kodi is a fantastic young adult who is continuing to find her interests in the large industry we love – sports,” Smith says. “As a transfer student, she has hit the ground running, getting involved with the program and has become a mentor for other underclassmen.”
Smith adds that Marietta’s Sport Management students have had the opportunity to work with prestigious organizations like the Capital One Orange Bowl, Boca Raton Bowl, Myrtle Beach Bowl, USA Softball, Savannah Bananas, and now the NCAA.
“I’m excited to see what’s next for our students in the coming years,” he says.
At Marietta College, students like Brenner are equipped with the skills, experiences, and connections they need to thrive in the competitive world of sport management. With a commitment to hands-on learning and industry partnerships, the College empowers its students to explore their passions and forge a path to success.