With the National Hockey League's 2026 Draft set to take place in Buffalo on June 26-27, Canisius University students will be among those helping deliver one of hockey's premier events.
Nearly 20 students from Canisius University 's Sport Management program have been selected to serve as NHL Ambassadors, representing the largest contingent of student volunteers at the event, joined by peers from Niagara University, Daemen University and St. John Fisher University.
This opportunity provides students with valuable hands-on experience in sport management, event operations and hospitality while placing them at the center of a major professional sports event.
Helping coordinate student involvement is Canisius alumnus James Adler '20, MS '21, director of sports development for the Buffalo Sports Commission, adjunct faculty member in the Wehle Business School and associate head coach of the Canisius AAU Men's Club Hockey team. "Buffalo has always been a hockey town," said Adler. "The NHL Draft returning for a fourth time speaks to the region's passion for the game and the strong hockey culture that exists throughout Western New York."
Adler played a key role in Buffalo's successful bid to host the draft, helping secure more than 2,200 hotel rooms for NHL staff, media members, prospects and VIP guests before the event was officially announced.
For Adler, the event also highlights a longstanding partnership between the Buffalo Sports Commission and Canisius University. "Canisius students embody the Jesuit ideal of being 'people for others,' often without even realizing it," said Adler. "They understand service, professionalism and responsibility. They're contributing to one of the most memorable moments in someone's life. That's why we know we can count on them at an event like the NHL Draft."
During the event, Canisius Golden Griffins will assist with a variety of responsibilities, from escorting NHL prospects and their families to media appearances and photo opportunities to helping fans navigate the event. A select group will also work in the NHL Hall of Fame exhibit, where they'll help oversee fan interactions with sport’s most treasured artifacts, including the Stanley Cup.
Among those working the draft is Brandon Lukomski '25, MS '26, who earned his bachelor's degree in sport management and is currently pursuing a master's degree in sport administration at Canisius. He learned about the opportunity through Shawn O'Rourke, PhD, professor and director of sport management at Canisius, who regularly shares industry opportunities with students and alumni.
"When Dr. O sent information about the NHL Draft, I immediately wanted to get involved," said Lukomski. "I'm passionate about hockey and hope to work with the NHL in some capacity. This experience gives me the chance to be part of a life-changing moment for these players while gaining valuable industry experience."
Lukomski said his Canisius education helped him develop the confidence and professional skills needed for a high-profile event like the NHL Draft. "Dr. O encourages us to network, build relationships and pursue every opportunity available," said Lukomski. "The sports industry is a small world, and the connections you make can have a lasting impact."
Opportunities like the NHL Draft are available to Canisius students at every stage of their academic journey.
Rebecca Hai '27, a sport management major, sees the event as an opportunity to gain firsthand experience at one of the biggest events in professional sports. "As a woman pursuing a career in sports business, it's inspiring to be part of an event like the NHL Draft and see the impact women are making," said Hai. "It's an opportunity to gain experience at the highest level and continue breaking into a traditionally male-dominated industry."
Hai said her coursework at Canisius has provided a strong foundation for the opportunity. "I've gained invaluable skills in event operations, leadership and communication that will help me succeed at an event of this scale," she said.
Participating in the NHL Draft also aligns with Hai's long-term career aspirations. "It allows me to learn from industry professionals, expand my network and gain insight into the type of work I hope to pursue as I build a career," she said.
Tyler Buchheit '29, a marketing major, is equally eager to gain behind-the-scenes experience at a major sporting event. "Working at the NHL Draft is something I've dreamed about," said Buchheit. "It's an incredible opportunity to explore a future career opportunity. "I also want to improve my communication skills and build professional connections. Experiences like this help you learn things you can't always learn in a classroom," he added.
The experience reflects Canisius’ strong focus on experiential, hands-on learning. For Adler, opportunities such as the NHL Draft demonstrate the value of that approach in preparing students for professional careers.
"Students can learn a great deal in the classroom, but there's no substitute for being part of an event of this magnitude," he said.
To learn more about the Wehle Business School at Canisius and it's Sport Management program, click here; for the master’s in Sports Administration, click here.
The 2026 NHL Draft will be held at KeyBank Center in downtown Buffalo and marks the fourth time the city has hosted the event, joining previous drafts held in 1991, 1998 and 2016.
