Behind the Scenes of Rhode Island’s Summer of Soccer
Big public moments take more than a great idea. They take partnerships, coordination, and people who know how to bring an experience to life.

On October 28, ILEA Rhode Island gathered at Providence G Pub to hear from three people who helped make Rhode Island’s Summer of Soccer happen. The evening brought our events and hospitality community together for a closer look at the work behind a summer that put Providence in the spotlight.
Three perspectives on a memorable summer
Our speakers—Cory Kramer, General Manager of Graduate by Hilton Providence; Alexis Gorriarán, CSEP, Executive Director of the Providence Tourism Council; and Ivan Krsticevic, Engagement Manager at G Hospitality—shared their experiences across hospitality, event production, tourism, and community engagement.
Together, their perspectives offered a look at the planning and partnerships behind the public experience: Welcoming visitors, producing events, and connecting organizations with opportunities to participate. Presentations and audience questions gave attendees the chance to hear directly from the people involved and explore how those different disciplines came together.
Thank you to our speakers and partners
We’re grateful to Cory, Alexis, and Ivan for their time, candor, and commitment to our industry. Our thanks also go to the partners who helped make the evening possible:
Luke Renchan Entertainment, our A/V sponsor, for helping every voice be heard.
Piper Brown Photography for capturing the evening.
G Hospitality for providing the venue and bites, with special thanks to ILEA RI Board member Carly Donovan and her team for welcoming our chapter.

And to everyone who joined us: Thank you for bringing your questions, sharing your perspectives, and supporting ILEA Rhode Island.
Join the next conversation
Our chapter brings creative event professionals together to exchange ideas, build relationships, and keep growing in their craft. Whether you’re a longtime member, new to the industry, or curious about our community, we’d love to see you at an upcoming gathering.

