Greater Columbus Sports & Events Council Appoints Craig S. Howard as Executive Director

The Greater Columbus Sports & Events Council (GCSEC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Craig S. Howard as its new Executive Director, effective Monday, January 12, 2026. Howard brings extensive experience in sports tourism, event recruitment, and strategic leadership, marking an exciting new chapter for the organization and the Columbus region.

Howard joins the Council from the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce, where he served as National Sports Manager. In that role, he played a key part in recruiting and supporting a wide range of high-profile sporting events, including the 2025 HBCU National Baseball Final Four, ACCC (JUCO) Conference Baseball, Volleyball, and Soccer Tournaments (2025–2028), the 2027 DYB World Series, 2025–26 DYB State Tournaments, and the 2024–25 MGM Triathlon. He also assisted Montgomery Whitewater in securing the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Canoe and Kayak. With more than seven years of industry experience, Howard has earned a reputation as a forward-thinking leader focused on growth, innovation, and community impact.

“Craig Howard’s impressive background and dedication to our mission make him the ideal leader for the Sports & Events Council,” said Herman Lewis, Jr. Board Chair. “We are confident his expertise will guide our organization to new heights and further strengthen our role in fostering economic development through sports in our community.”

As Executive Director, Howard will oversee strategic initiatives, funding development, staff management, and organizational promotion. His responsibilities will also include serving as a key liaison with athletes, sponsors, government partners, and community stakeholders. Howard will lead efforts in operations, finance, marketing, program growth, facility engagement, and regulatory compliance—all aimed at increasing sports participation, enhancing community health, and generating sustainable economic impact.

“I am thrilled to join the Greater Columbus Sports & Events Council and work alongside such a passionate and talented team,” Howard said. “I am deeply committed to advancing the Council’s mission and look forward to building upon the strong foundation established under the leadership of Merri Sherman.”

A native of Phenix City, Alabama, Howard holds a degree in Communications from the University of Alabama.

#### Founded in 1995 as “Columbus ’96,” the organization originally served as the site host for the 1996 Olympic Softball Venue. Today, the Greater Columbus Sports & Events Council is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting tourism through sporting events and creating positive economic impact throughout the greater Columbus region. The Council has hosted numerous national events across baseball, soccer, golf, hockey, tennis, cheerleading, and more. Its mission is to foster economic development in the City of Columbus through the recruitment and facilitation of sporting events, the promotion of healthy lifestyles, and the support of recreational facilities in the community.