Meet The Team
Ben Snyder
Executive Director
Ben joined the team in Grand Junction in 2020 after spending the previous ten years working in the sport tourism and events industry. A native of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Ben spent five years in Colorado Springs prior to moving to the west slope and is very familiar with the natural beauty Colorado has to offer. Past experiences include sales and ticketing roles within Minor League Baseball, collegiate athletics, multisport events, and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee.
A graduate of Messiah College (Harrisburg, PA), Ben received a Bachelor of Science in Economics where he also played four years of baseball. He attended Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond, VA) and received his MBA and Master of Education in Sport Leadership in 2013. Ben also specializes in event operations and logistics from his roles with the World Police & Fire Games and the Corporate Games.
Away from the office, you will most likely find Ben out on a trail with his dogs Tuck and Samson. An avid hiker, he also enjoys cycling, basketball, tennis, and the occasional triathlon. Additionally, Ben referees high school basketball during the winter months.
Ben has a passion for bringing people together through sport and his mission is to showcase the many incredible opportunities the Grand Junction community has to offer. With unrivaled natural resources, he knows the Grand Junction Sports Commission has a fun trail ahead.
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Bryan Wright
Operations Coordinator
Bryan joined the GGJSC team in 2022 after spending the previous ten years working in public safety, event management, and education. A native of Denver, Colorado, Bryan previously worked with various Mesa County departments on multiple complex projects, incidents, and special events. Past experiences include serving on the Incident Management Team for Country Jam Colorado, the Mesa County COVID-19 Incident Management Team, and serving as the Incident Commander at various emergency situations and special events. Bryan is also a member of multiple boards, groups, and task forces throughout Mesa County and the State of Colorado.
As a graduate, student, and educator at Colorado Mesa University, Bryan is familiar with the Grand Valley and all it has to offer. He has experience with lots of major events around town and has supported GGJSC events previously in a Public Safety capacity.
Away from the office, you will find Bryan out exploring the Colorado National Monument, The Grand Mesa, and spending time with his friends and family.
Bryan has a passion for helping the community and keeping people safe. He has numerous certifications related to event safety and is passionate about making events a safe and memorable experience for everyone.
Kate Ellyson
Marketing Coordinator
Kate joined the GGJSC team in 2023 after graduating from the University of Arizona, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Marketing. A native of Palisade, Colorado, Kate is excited to be back in her hometown and expand the sporting opportunities in Mesa County. During her time at the University of Arizona, Kate worked in sports sponsorship with Arizona Athletics and developed her passion for sports business. In the past, Kate has worked with the Grand Junction Parks and Recreation and has seen firsthand how sports can make a positive impact on kids and the community.
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Away from the office, you will find Kate taking photos of the natural beauty of the western slope, painting, and spending time with her friends and family, including her dog Addy.
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Kate has a passion for connecting communities and sports and the positive impact sports can have on both the community and the city. Being born and raised in the Grand Valley, Kate is excited about the future of the Grand Junction Sports Commission and everything it can provide for the community.