Scott’s Dickson’s dedication to making Jerome Schottenstein Center events safe and enjoyable extends even further than the 800,000 annual guests. He is equally passionate about creating memorable experiences for his coworkers and treating them like family.
“Everyone you come in touch with is a guest, including your staff,” said Scott, senior director of event services and guest experience at the Schottenstein Center. “We try to create experiences for everyone who walks through the door.”
Scott manages front-house operations such as parking, security, public safety and guest services. While his role includes many late nights and exhausting weekends, he enjoys ensuring that events run smoothly and guests are happy. In addition, Scott works hard to guarantee that staff and daily users of the facility are protected and comfortable.
Originally from California, Scott has worked in event services for more than 35 years. Prior to Ohio State, he worked at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, with the Los Angeles Lakers and for the 1984 Olympic Committee. Then, seizing a new career opportunity, Scott became a Buckeye.
“I had heard of Midwest values, and I got here and really started to understand the passion through the good people I was working with,” Scott explained. “I’ve met great students and staff.”
Through his role, Scott has had unique opportunities to meet and interact with thousands of people. For example, he has come face-to-face with former U.S. President Barack Obama, country music singer Garth Brooks and the band twenty-one pilots. And while his commitment to guest safety and experience prevents him from watching the shows, Scott values the brief moments when he’s able to witness the results of his work.
“There’s a part of the show, such as the encore, where you get to take it all in and enjoy it for a second,” he said. “You soak in the crowd and feel this sense of accomplishment.”
As one event finishes, Scott and his team are preparing for the next one. This requires extensive planning and organizing, but Scott attributes the success to his coworkers, who make him proud.
“I’ve surrounded myself with the right people, and we’re a family,” Scott said. “The people who work around me are good at what they do.”
Throughout his 13 years at Ohio State, Scott has mentored hundreds of students and staff members and enabled their growth. He trains employees from 18 to 90 years old, and his biggest reward is watching them succeed. While Scott is modest, it is evident that people enjoy working around him – the turnover is low, and some staff members have worked there for more than 40 years.
He was also a member of USAC for three years, and his dedication to serving others inspired that work as well. In addition, he often volunteers with other events on campus to help them run smoothly. As a whole, Scott is determined to create experiences for everyone he meets: guests, coworkers and students alike.
Of all Scott’s accomplishments, his 2017 Distinguished Staff Award makes him the most proud.
“There are so many great people here at Ohio State, so to have that happen was very humbling,” he said. “There’s an excellence in everyone who works here.”
