Empowering Tomorrow's Sports Leaders

Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program

Stephen M. Schanwald ’77, a trailblazer in the world of sports business, has built an extraordinary career defined by innovation, leadership, and success. A proud Terp, Steve’s journey began at the University of Maryland, where he interned with Maryland Athletics under the guidance of Russ Potts, widely regarded as the first sports marketing director in the history of college athletics. This formative experience ignited Steve’s passion for sports management and laid the foundation for his remarkable career.

Steve went on to achieve incredible success as the Executive Vice President of the Chicago Bulls, one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises. During his tenure, the Bulls secured six NBA Championships in the 1990s, thanks to the legendary Michael Jordan era. Steve played a pivotal role in building the team’s global brand, spearheading innovative marketing strategies, and forming deep connections with the Chicago community. He was also instrumental in establishing the Bulls’ Community Relations Department, which became a model for how sports organizations could engage meaningfully with their local communities.

Before his time with the Bulls, Steve made his mark in Major League Baseball as part of the Pittsburgh Pirates front office, contributing to their 1979 World Series Championship season. His work across both basketball and baseball has cemented his reputation as one of the most respected executives in sports.

In August 2024, Steve returned to his roots at the University of Maryland with a transformative $8 million gift to establish the Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program Endowment for Business. This historic contribution ensures the success of the newly named Schanwald Sports Management Program in the Robert H. Smith School of Business.

Steve’s visionary gift supports a cutting-edge curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, and initiatives that prepare students to lead with creativity and confidence in the competitive sports industry. Inspired by his own journey and the mentorship he received early in his career, Steve’s generosity empowers the next generation of Terps to follow in his footsteps and achieve greatness in sports management.

From courtside triumphs to transformative philanthropy, Steve Schanwald’s legacy exemplifies the power of education, mentorship, and innovation to shape the future of sports. His commitment to Maryland Athletics and the Smith School of Business ensures that the University of Maryland will continue to inspire, educate, and empower the sports leaders of tomorrow.