October 2025 Luncheon: “Game Changers: Female Leaders Shaping the Sports Industry”
Submitted by John Garner, Charlotte Regional Business Alliance
At CREW Charlotte’s October Luncheon, attendees heard from Caroline Wright, Chief Venues Officer for Tepper Sports & Entertainment, and Donna Julian, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Spectrum Center, for an engaging discussion on Charlotte’s sports, real estate, and community ecosystem.
Caroline detailed Bank of America Stadium’s $800 million renovation, emphasizing Tepper Sports & Entertainment’s ownership structure and partnership with the City, while Donna shared insights on the $245 million transformation of Spectrum Center, a City-owned facility operated by the Hornets. Both leaders highlighted how tourism and hospitality tax dollars are reinvested locally through these projects, fueling Charlotte’s economic growth.
Caroline noted that Bank of America Stadium generates $1.1 billion annually for the local economy and supports more than 1,000 construction workers during renovations, while Donna described Spectrum Center as a year-round hub for NBA games, concerts, and community events. Both underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in maintaining world-class venues and positioning Charlotte as a national destination.
Beyond the numbers, Caroline and Donna reflected on leadership, teamwork, and giving back. Caroline highlighted the David and Nicole Tepper Foundation’s $10 million donation to food banks across the Carolinas, and Donna discussed her community involvement through Big Brothers Big Sisters and Blumenthal Performing Arts. Together, they showcased how visionary leadership and collaboration continue to shape Charlotte’s skyline, economy, and spirit.