For three BT graduates spanning different decades, sports have been more than just games—they’ve become fulfilling careers that blend passion with purpose. From professional teams to collegiate athletics, these alumni showcase how their high school experiences helped shape their successful paths in the sports industry.
Eliza Rice, ’19, turned what could have been a setback into a stepping stone to success. As a former track athlete who competed at the Division 1 level for the University of New Mexico, Rice faced a career‑ending injury that forced her to reimagine her future. After exploring various paths, including a transformative study abroad experience in France, she found her way to the Milwaukee Bucks, where she now serves as an Account Service Executive managing over $5.1 million in member accounts.
“Though my role often requires long hours and emotionally taxing conversations, at the end of the day, it’s just tickets and basketball—not open heart surgery,” Rice reflects. “It’s about creating and perpetuating joy through sport!” Her high school sports experience, particularly in track and field, taught her valuable lessons about competition that she carries into her professional life. “The most rewarding achievements are those that prove that I’m a better version of myself than the previous day or race.”
Jason Kohll, ’97, has built an impressive career in sports spanning over two decades. After gaining experience with MLB and NBA teams, including leading commercial sales for the Houston Rockets during the Yao Ming era, Kohll founded Professional Sports Partners in 2012. His agency, now 25 people strong, develops and executes some of the most high‑profile sporting events in the world.
For Kohll, his love of sports began with cherished memories of attending Nebraska football games with his father. He credits his experience at Brownell Talbot for building his confidence and providing opportunities he might not have had at a larger school.
“A small environment fits me best,” he says, particularly remembering the influence of Coach Ron Scribner, whom he describes as “one of the best men in the world.”
Dede Allen, ’80, has dedicated nearly four decades to collegiate athletics, currently serving as the Senior Associate Athletic Director at the University of Alaska Anchorage. Her journey began somewhat serendipitously—starting as a college lifeguard and working various roles in recreation before finding her path in athletic administration. Now in her 31st year at UAA, she oversees NCAA compliance, strength & conditioning, sports medicine, human resources, and serves as the sport administrator for volleyball.
Allen was actively involved while a student at BT.
“Being encouraged at BT to be involved in theatre and yearbook and to play field hockey and basketball were integral in me finding my ‘feet’ and gaining confidence, resilience, and understanding commitment,” she reflects.
All three alumni emphasize how their Brownell Talbot experiences prepared them for success in the sports industry. Whether it’s Rice’s philosophy of constant self‑improvement, Kohll’s appreciation for a close‑knit community, or Allen’s emphasis on building well‑rounded skills, their stories demonstrate the lasting impact of their time at BT.
Their careers also highlight the dynamic nature of the sports industry. As Allen navigates the ever‑changing landscape of NCAA compliance and student-athlete rights, Kohll’s agency adapts to the industry’s explosive growth and technological advances, and Rice brings fresh energy to fan engagement in the NBA. Together, they represent three decades of alumni success, carrying forward the values and lessons learned at Brownell Talbot into the exciting world of sports business and administration.
