by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
Following months of preparation and interoffice structuring, the Super Bowl Host Committee has hired its last full-time staffer.
Nikki Epley, the new director of special events, starts today.
“She has extensive experience and skill sets that will make her a real asset,” said Reid Sigmon, vice president of operations for the Host Committee. “We’re very excited to have her with us and we expect she’ll grasp onto the Host Committee structure very quickly.”
Prior to position here, Epley put in stints at Wichita State and Colorado State universities where she served in similar capacities.
“She has experience with intercollegial and also championship events that will serve her well here,” said Sigmon.
Host Committee president Michael Kelly agreed.
“I like that we have similar backgrounds,” said Kelly. “The work she has done with those universities will be very similar to the way we interface with the NFL.”
Kelly said Epley will be responsible for maintaining comprehensive event calenders while making sure that various commitments are met and appropriate time tables are adhered to.
“And like all of our staff, she’ll serve as a liaison to representatives in the community,” he said.
Theresa O’Donnell Price, director of special events for the City who has also been assisting in Super Bowl activities, interviewed Epley.
“She’ll really keep things moving,” said Price. “Her hiring is really going to round out the staffing they have and she’s going to be a perfect part of the team. She has a lot of energy and she’ll do a great job.”
A special events meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. today, which O’Donnell said will see Epley “jumping in with both feet.”
“I know she can handle it,” said O’Donnell. “As we start getting
closer to the big day, she’ll be a huge help.”