Pro Sports Executive, Alum Dave Sholler to Speak at Commencement
Ƶ alumnus Dave Sholler '06 will be the keynote speaker at the 2024 Commencement Ceremonies on May 10. Sholler is the chief communications officer for the Philadelphia 76ers and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, which manages and operates premier professional venues and sports teams, including the 76ers, New Jersey Devils, Delaware Blue Coats and Utica Comets.
Atlantic City, N.J. — Professional sports executive and Ƶ alumnus Dave Sholler ’06 will be the keynote speaker at the 2024 Commencement Ceremonies on May 10 at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.
Sholler, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies, will speak at both baccalaureate ceremonies at 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Dave Sholler, left, speaks with Philadelphia 76ers coach Nick Nurse during a recent practice.
“As a first-generation student, Dave is a testament to the power of a Ƶ degree, so it’s fitting that he will deliver the keynote for my first commencement as president,” Ƶ President Joe Bertolino said. “It’s an honor for me to welcome him back to the Osprey family.”
Sholler currently serves as chief communications officer for the Philadelphia 76ers and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE). He previously served as executive vice president, senior vice president and vice president of communications for the 76ers and as vice president of public relations and athlete marketing for Ultimate Fighting Championship.
HBSE is a leading sports and entertainment company, with a focus on inspiring possibilities in people and enhancing the communities of which they are a part. The company manages and operates premier professional venues and sports teams, including the 76ers, New Jersey Devils, Delaware Blue Coats and Utica Comets.
“It is a tremendous honor to serve as the commencement speaker. Born in Atlantic City and raised in South Jersey, I have so many wonderful memories from attending and working events at the iconic Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall,” Sholler said. “The opportunity to speak at Ƶ’s commencement ceremony at such a historic venue is incredibly special.”
Sholler has given back to Ƶ in various ways since graduating. The Egg Harbor Township native is a regular presence on campus, having shared his Ƶ story with prospective students at Experience Ƶ Day, and mentored students interested in pursuing careers in communications. Sholler often credits Ƶ’s supportive faculty and strong internship program with setting him on his path to success.
“Ƶ made a lasting impact on my life — personally and professionally — and I would not be where I am today without the guidance and mentorship of the university’s amazing professors, administrators and staff. This is such an important day for the graduates and their families, and I’m truly humbled to participate,” he said.
More information about Commencement can be found at stockton.edu/commencement.
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Media contacts:
Stacey Clapp
Director of Strategic Communications
Stacey.Clapp@stockton.edu
609-626-3645
609-412-8069
stockton.edu/media
Mark Melhorn
Associate Director of News and Media Relations
Mark.Melhorn@stockton.edu
609-652-4593
609-569-6026
stockton.edu/media
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