FRANKLIN, Mass. (April 22, 2015) – The Kraft Sports Group, the holding company for the New England Patriots and New England Revolution, announced today they have finalized an exclusive academic partnership with Dean College to create The Center for Business, Entertainment and Sport Management; establishing numerous opportunities for students to gain insight from Patriots and Revolution executives.
“Our organization is proud to expand our relationship with Dean College,” said Murray Kohl, vice president of corporate sales for the New England Patriots. “We look forward to offering Dean students new opportunities to gain real-world exposure in the sports, business and entertainment industries through this new venture.”
The agreement is an enhancement to an existing relationship between the two organizations that has been in place since 2009. This relationship will strengthen the synergy of the two parties through the direct involvement of Patriots and Revolution executives, who will participate with members of the Dean Faculty in classroom activities for programs Dean College offers. Programs include: Arts and Entertainment Management, Business, Media Studies and Communications, Security Management, Sport Management and Sports and Fitness Studies.
The partnership also includes the introduction of a scholarship program, stadium and event management programs and the development of a formalized internship program where Dean College students will have the opportunity to work in various areas within the organization.
“We are honored to be so closely tied with organizations as successful and recognizable as the New England Patriots and the New England Revolution,” said Dean College President Dr. Paula M. Rooney. “From venue management and coaching to marketing and business, the opportunity for our students to learn from the leaders of such respected enterprises is exciting for our students.”
Teaching in collaboration with the Dean Faculty and internships are also a part of the arrangement. Members of the Kraft Sports Group’s staff will provide insight and analysis on their area of expertise both on the Dean College campus in Franklin, Mass. and at the team’s Gillette Stadium headquarters in Foxborough, Mass. Personnel from multiple areas within the organization will lecture and oversee the students during their internships, providing a collaboration of academics with modern business.
“To succeed today, college students need as many contacts and real-world exposure as possible,” said Dr. Michael Fishbein, vice president of academic affairs. “By working directly with the Patriots and the Revolution, and having their leadership team so closely intertwined with ours, we feel this sets our academic programs apart and drives the experiential learning that is so critical. Our students will be more prepared, have more relevant experiences and a more valuable degree as a result of this partnership.”
In addition, Dean College student-athletes will have the opportunity to utilize training facilities and access various strength, conditioning and nutrition programs through the Patriots and Revolution organizations. This invaluable benefit provides Dean coaches’ and players access to state-of-the-art equipment and direct contact with training staffs consistently recognized among their respective league leaders.
“The Kraft Sports Group is a true business leader and we are proud that they have chosen Dean College to be their exclusive academic partner. It says a lot about our institution and where we are going,” said Dr. Rooney.
