Since 2023, Rider University has been “An Official Higher Education Partner of the New York Giants.” The partnership is driven by a collaborative desire to provide meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities for students.
“What distinguishes Rider from other universities is the sum of the many experiences we offer in and out of the classroom,” said Rider University President Gregory G. Dell’Omo, Ph.D.
“So much of our business revolves around hands-on opportunities and we are thrilled to create new ones together with the team at Rider University,” said Jessica Slenker, Giants senior vice president, corporate partnerships.
Since the beginning of the partnership, five Rider students and alumni have been selected as part-time, full-time and game-day interns, giving them direct access to the business side of a major sports organization.
“This has been my first real step into the professional sports world,” said Joseph Ayoub (Class of 2024), when he was selected as one of the first interns through the partnership. “The Giants throw you into the mix as if you’re part of the organization.”
Additionally, the partnership provides classroom and community service opportunities for students. Each year, Rider students conduct a business research project related to the sports industry and present their findings to members of the Giants’ front office and participate in a joint cause-related initiative.
In October, a group of students volunteered with Giants legend Eli Manning at a sports clinic with athletes from Special Olympics New Jersey. Held at Special Olympics New Jersey headquarters in Lawrenceville, the clinic allowed athletes to test their skills in a variety of activities, including catching passes from Manning, who surprised the participants.
Seeing the athletes’ reactions and being able to have an active role in the event was very meaningful for the Rider students.
“The experience of supporting the athletes and aiding in their enjoyment was something I’m so lucky to have been part of,” said senior Christina Natoli.
