Katie Kicklighter Tabbed to Lead Event Development Institute

TAMPA, FL - The Tampa Bay Sports Commission (TBSC) and Event Development Institute (EDI) administration are thrilled to announce that Katie Kicklighter has been tabbed as Senior Director for EDI, following the recent departure of teammate Jenna Grooms.

In the Senior Director role, Kicklighter will lead the TBSC’s in-house event and marketing division that specializes in growing new and existing events and brands nationwide.

“There’s no better feeling than coming home,” said Kicklighter. “I’m beyond excited to be back on the TBSC team and to continue elevating events in and around our community.”

Formerly the Director of Partner Events & Hospitality at U.S. Ski & Snowboard, Kicklighter brings with her valuable experience in creating one-of-a-kind events for commercial and philanthropic partners. Her responsibilities included developing the strategy, overseeing the production of the organization’s signature annual fundraising events, and hosting hospitality programs at competitions around the globe.

“While Jenna (Grooms) leaves big shoes to fill, we’re thrilled to have Katie return to her Team Tampa Bay roots,” said Rob Higgins, Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. “Katie brings with her a wealth of institutional knowledge and global event experience to the table, and we will all love working with her again as she, alongside Mercedes (Jorge), helps take EDI to all new levels.”

No stranger to the TBSC, she previously worked in various roles as Manager of Hospitality & Events for the Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee, Assistant Tournament Manager for the 2019 Women’s Final Four Local Organizing Committee and as a Graduate Resident for TBSC (2019). Currently, Kicklighter also serves as the Membership Chair for Women in Sports & Events (WISE) Tampa Bay chapter.

Katie is a graduate of the University of South Florida’s Vinik Sport and Entertainment Management Program, where she earned a pair of Master's degrees in Business Administration as well as Sport & Entertainment Management. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Colorado State University where she competed as a member of the swim team.