AEG Presents Brings College Connection Program to Portola Music Festival AEG Presents, in collaboration with the City of San Francisco and Non Plus Ultra, hosted a select group of students and young professionals for its College Connection Program at the Portola Music Festival this past weekend for a hands-on, day-long experience designed to inspire and empower the next generation of live entertainment professionals. Participants were given an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of San Francisco’s most dynamic festival site as well as a tour of The Midway venue. The day began with welcoming remarks from Erin Biblo, Sr. Director of Regional Operations, Goldenvoice, followed by a guided tour of the festival grounds led by Tim Le, Director of Festival Operations, Goldenvoice. Students then engaged in an industry panel featuring executives from AEG, Goldenvoice, and the San Francisco Entertainment Commission, and participated in speed mentoring sessions with professionals from across GV Black and the Goldenvoice Festival team. The program closed with inspiring remarks from Rhea Roberts Johnson, VP of Goldenvoice Operations & Community Engagement. Panelists included: -Lara Fox, VP Global Partnerships -Christina Azada, Sr. Director Merch -Jordan Ramos, Manager Partner Activation – Global Partnerships -Dre Hanna, VP Production – Goldenvoice Festivals -Becky Ogden, Director Festival – Goldenvoice Festivals -Maggie Weiland, Executive Director – San Francisco Entertainment Commission (Moderated by Tae Flakes, Goldenvoice Talent Buyer) Students also participated in one-on-one résumé reviews with AEG Presents’ HR team and received valuable guidance from mentors across guest services, marketing, production, partner activations, HR, and more. “The College Connection Program at Portola is about opening doors and showing students that there’s a place for them in live music not just as fans, but as contributors and future leaders,” said Twana Simmons, DE&I Business Partner, AEG Presents. “By connecting students with mentors, reviewing résumés, and even hiring participants, we’re helping them see what’s possible and giving them the tools to step into this industry with confidence.” Prior to the event, 13 students from the program were hired to join the Portola Festival team in roles spanning box office, marketing, and guest services giving them the opportunity to immediately apply what they learned through real, hands-on festival experience. The College Connection Program reflects AEG Presents’ commitment to education, workforce development, and inclusive access in live entertainment. By providing real-world experience, mentorship, and direct pathways to employment, the initiative is helping shape the future of music and live events one student at a time. Special Shoutout to our Presents HR/DEI Team for putting together another a great program! Twana Simmons Leilani Alvarez
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