Alumni Spotlight: Conor McCarvel ’23 & ’25

Each year, millions of college football fans tune in to watch one of the sport's most recognizable postseason traditions, the Fiesta Bowl. Behind the scenes, Dickinson State alumnus Conor McCarvel helps create those experiences while advancing a mission that reaches far beyond game day.

As Volunteer Engagement Coordinator for the Fiesta Sports Foundation, McCarvel supports nationally recognized bowl games and year-round initiatives focused on youth, sports, and education across Arizona. He credits Dickinson State with preparing him for a career built on serving others.

"One of the things that made Dickinson State special was its sense of community," McCarvel said. "Because it's a smaller school, everyone pitched in. Whether I was taking tickets, working concessions or volunteering at other athletic events, I gained an appreciation for everything that goes into creating a great experience for others. Looking back, I didn't realize it then, but those experiences helped prepare me for my role with the Fiesta Sports Foundation, where bringing people together and creating memorable events is what I get to do every day."

McCarvel earned his bachelor's degree from Dickinson State in 2023 and completed his master’s in athletic leadership in 2025. During his time on campus, he was a four-year football student-athlete, team captain, Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program (TRHLP) scholar and Admissions employee. His years at Dickinson State also strengthened his relationship with his wife, Allie, whom he has been with since high school.

"Starting college is such a formative experience, and getting to go through it together meant a lot for our relationship," McCarvel said. "Whether it was attending TR program meetings and events, seeing her in the stands on game days or spending time with friends, there was something special about sharing those moments together. Allie has always been my biggest supporter."

While the Fiesta Bowl is the Foundation's most recognizable event, McCarvel says some of the most rewarding moments come through its community work. One of its largest initiatives, Wishes for Teachers, provides $1.5 million to educators across Arizona each year.

"Whether it's seeing the impact that it has on teachers or watching kids enjoy one of our youth football clinics, those are the moments that remind me I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be," he said.

This summer, McCarvel and Allie welcomed their first child, daughter Charli, a milestone that has reshaped his definition of success.

"Becoming a father has made me want to be the best version of myself every day," he said. "At the end of the day, I just want my wife and daughter to know they can always count on me. To me, success isn't measured by a job title or accomplishments. It's measured by the relationships you build and the people you love."

The lessons he learned at Dickinson State continue to guide both his career and his life.

"Dickinson State taught me that success is built through relationships," McCarvel said. "Football showed me the value of teamwork, trust and leading by serving others. Those lessons carry over into my role with the Fiesta Sports Foundation, where building relationships with volunteers and community partners is what makes our events successful."

Reflecting on his time as a Blue Hawk, McCarvel offers simple advice to today's students: "Soak it all in and get as involved as possible. Dickinson State shaped so much of who I am today."