WVU Esports has announced the launch of its Game Changers: Alumni Achievements Series, a speaker series featuring a lineup of West Virginia University alumni and experts from the esports industry and other related professional fields.
The series will kick off on Friday, Nov. 8 at 1 p.m., and will feature an online discussion with Rebecca Burkhardt, a 2014 graduate of WVU’s Sport Management program. Burkhardt currently serves as a Senior Manager for Strategic Programs with LIV Golf, and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from her time working across the sports industry.
The event is open to all WVU students who sign up beforehand at this link.
“The Game Changers series gives our students front row access to professionals that are doing amazing things in the fields of esports, sport management, and business,” WVU Esports Director and Varsity Head Coach Josh Steger said. “It’s going to give students a chance to see the way that Sport Management, Business, and Esports all have transferable skills that can be intertwined with one another.
“It’s not easy getting higher-up executives in these industries to take the time to speak with you, so we wanted to find a way to give all WVU students an opportunity to get to do that."
Game Changers will take place throughout the academic year, with a diverse lineup of alumni engaging with students to share their stories, and answer questions to help them navigate their own career journeys.
In addition to her time with LIV Golf, Burkhardt has also worked with the National Hockey League, San Jose Sharks, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
“Rebecca understands what it takes to have steady growth in her field,” Steger said. “She’s very approachable and understanding, which will allow the students to learn from the advice she gives. We’re very happy she’s willing to spread her knowledge and give back to the University like this."