Longtime Team Members Elevated to Leadership Roles Within Mohegan Sun’s Entertainment Team; Elijah Panfili also Joins Public Relations Team as Sports & Entertainment Publicist
Mohegan Sun is excited to announce the promotions of Matt Dole to Director of Entertainment Strategic Planning and Kayla Smith to Manager of Sports & Entertainment. With extensive experience across live entertainment operations, booking strategy and venue management, both leaders have played integral roles in the Mohegan Sun’s success and will continue to help shape the future of one of the nation’s premier destinations for live entertainment.
In his new role as Director of Entertainment Strategic Planning, Matt Dole will oversee and help drive strategic initiatives for Mohegan Sun’s vast entertainment portfolio, with a primary focus on the award-winning Mohegan Sun Arena. He will oversee revenue optimization efforts, artist relations and long-term business strategies. Dole will also play a key role in strengthening and expanding partnerships with industry leaders such as Live Nation and leading artist agencies, while helping shape the entertainment vision for one of the Northeast’s busiest and top-ranked venues, Mohegan Sun Arena. His expertise in talent booking will also support other Mohegan Sun venues, including the Wolf Den and Sun Patio, which over the past two summers has played host to The Roots, Dion, Lakeview, Buckcherry, Lupe Fiasco, Sully Erna and much more.
Dole began his career at Mohegan Sun in 2006 as a restaurant host at Cove Lounge within Mohegan Sun’s Culinary team. From there, he gained experience through a variety of operational focuses including VIP Services, Arena Club and Revenue Management before joining the Entertainment team, where he has continued to play a critical role in venue programming and strategic planning.
“These promotions within our Entertainment team are well deserved, as Matt and Kayla have each played essential roles in the continued success of our entertainment venues,” said Joe Soper, VP of Sports & Entertainment for Mohegan. “Their leadership, dedication and ability to adapt in a fast-paced industry have helped elevate the guest experience across our live venues and I am excited to see them build on that momentum.”
Kayla Smith began her career with Mohegan Sun in 2005 as a Guest Receptionist in Hotel Operations. Through her dedication, strong work ethic, andcommitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences, she advanced into leadership roles as Hotel Supervisor and Dual Rate Manager. In January of 2020, Kayla transitioned into Sports & Entertainmentas a Contract & Scheduling Specialist. With more than two decades of experience across multiple areas of Mohegan Sun, Kayla brings a wealth of experience and operational knowledge to her position. As Manager of Sports & Entertainment, Smith will play a vital role in entertainment booking for the Wolf Den, while assisting with booking strategy for The Cabaret Theatre (The Cab), the Sun Patio, and Mohegan Sun Arena. She will also continue to manage the contracts, scheduling of artist/tour hospitality needs and general operational support across Mohegan Sun’s entertainment programming.
Joining Mohegan Sun as Sports & Entertainment Publicist is Elijah Panfili, a Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) graduate with a background in Communications, PR and Marketing. As Sports & Entertainment Publicist, Panfili will support publicity efforts for Mohegan Sun’s extensive lineup of live entertainment, working closely with regional and national media to drive engagement and increase visibility for the hundreds of concerts and sporting events hosted annually at Mohegan Sun Arena and across Mohegan Sun’s other popular venues. Panfili can be reached at [email protected].
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States.Situated on 185 acres along the Thames Riverin scenic Southeastern Connecticut,Mohegan Sunis home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visitingmohegansun.com. Connect with us onFacebook, follow us onXandInstagram@mohegansun and view us onYouTube.
12th Annual Event to take place Saturday, November 14th featuring an Opening Ceremony at The Shops at Mohegan Sun, followed by a free Expo in the Uncas Ballroom
UNCASVILLE, CT (October 1, 2026) – On Saturday, November 14th, Mohegan Sun is proud to host the 12th Annual Vets Rock, a day dedicated to recognizing and honoring active-duty military members, veterans, and their families. This free, community-focused event will feature an inspiring Opening Ceremony, and a veteran resource expo bringing together services, opportunities, and connections for those who serve.
Vets Rock 2026 is free to attend and open to guests of all ages.
Opening Ceremony
WTNH’s Gil Simmons will once again serve as MCfor the opening ceremony, set for 11:00am in The Shops at Mohegan Sun. The November 14th event marks his 10th year hosting this special opening ceremony. This ceremony begins with a presentation of Colors from the Mohegan Tribal Veterans Association and Mohegan Sun Veterans, followed by a national anthem. Remarks and words of appreciation will then follow by Jeff Hamilton, President and General Manager of Mohegan Sun, and other notable guest speakers.
The ceremony will set the tone for a meaningful day dedicated to honoring the service, sacrifice, and commitment of America’s military community.
Vets Rock Expo
From Noon to 4:00pm in the Uncas Ballroom, the Vets Rock Expo will connect veterans and active-duty military members with valuable resources, including a job fair, veteran service organizations, veteran-owned businesses, and programs designed to make an impact. Guests 21 and older can also participate in a complimentary Casino 101 tournament. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore services, benefits, and career resources while engaging with fellow veterans, service members, and community partners. Come connect and discover all that Vets Rock has to offer.
Year-Round Military Discounts at Mohegan Sun
As a thank you to those who have served, Mohegan Sun proudly offers year-round military discounts to active-duty military personnel, veterans, and military dependents at more than 40 dining and retail locations throughout the property. Guests must present a valid Military ID to participate. A complete list of participating venues and offers can be found at mohegansun.com.
For more information about Vets Rock 2026, including participating vendors and event updates, visit mohegansun.com/vetsrock.
ABOUT VETS ROCK FOUNDATION, LLC
Vets Rock Foundation, LLC is a non-profit organization founded in 2017 by The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut. The organization was created to support and benefit veterans, active and reserve military members, and their families. Its annual Vets Rock event is a free exposition-style gathering that provides access to employment opportunities, educational resources, Veteran Service Organizations, and veteran-owned businesses while fostering connections within the military community.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
Mohegan is excited to announce the appointment of Joe Soper as VP of Sports & Entertainment, where he will oversee strategy and programming for Mohegan Sun’s entertainment as well working collaboratively across Mohegan’s overall portfolio, which includes Mohegan Pennsylvania in Northeast Pennsylvania as well as Fallsview Casino Resort and Casino Niagara In Niagara Falls, Ontario, CA. Mohegan Sun is home to more than 120 concerts and sporting events annually inside the 10,000-seat Mohegan Sun Arena alone, which just recently announced two special 25th Anniversary shows with the legendary rock band, Metallica.
Joe Soper returns to Mohegan following his service on the Mohegan Tribal Council, where he has held the role of Corresponding Secretary since 2019. In this role, Soper was responsible for all correspondence issued by The Tribal Council, and for communicating all appropriate information from the Council to members of the Mohegan Tribe. Prior to his years on the Mohegan Tribal Council, Soper built a 15-year career at Mohegan Sun, first as a Senior Financial Analyst followed by serving as Director of Sports & Entertainment. In his leadership role as Director, Soper was a key asset in helping to grow Mohegan Sun Arena into one of the world’s busiest and most decorated live entertainment venues in the world, while also supporting booking, programming and development initiatives across Mohegan’s broader portfolio.
“Joe Soper is a proven leader with invaluable insight and expertise not only as it applies to Mohegan Sun’s Sports & Entertainment, but as it applies throughout our entire enterprise and we’re thrilled to welcome him back to lead one of the most dynamic areas of our business,” -said David Martinelli, CMO of Mohegan. “His dedication and experience will prove integral to the continued momentum in elevating the future of live entertainment at Mohegan Sun.”
As VP of Sports & Entertainment, Soper will not only oversee the strategic direction and day-to-day programming of Mohegan Sun’s robust entertainment but will also play a key role in cultivating and strengthening high-impact industry partnerships. This includes working closely with leading promoters like Live Nation, top music agencies such as CAA and WME, as well as major sports and entertainment organizations including WWE, to attract premier talent, secure first-to-market performances, and continue elevating Mohegan Sun’s position as a top-tier destination for live entertainment.
Soper attended Western New England University and received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in finance.
ABOUT MOHEGAN
Mohegan is the owner, developer, and manager of premier entertainment resorts in the United States and Canada. Mohegan’s U.S. operations include resorts in Connecticut and Pennsylvania and Canadian operations are based in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The brand’s iGaming division, Mohegan Digital, provides cutting-edge online gaming solutions to Mohegan’s loyal fan base and meets the digital needs of North American customers. Mohegan is owner and operator of Connecticut Sun, a professional basketball team in the WNBA. For more information on Mohegan and its properties, please visit mohegangaming.com.
UNCASVILLE, CT (April 9, 2025) – Mohegan Sun and A.T.Y Hospitality celebrated the grand opening of Sift Bake Shop and A.T.Y Bar & Bonbons, presented by Grey Goose, with a special ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, April 8th. Sift Bake Shop and A.T.Y Bar & Bonbons are family-owned concepts created by Pastry Chef Adam Young and his wife, Ebbie, and both venues are located at the Winter Entrance in Casino of the Earth.
“Anyone who knows Adam [Young] knows he’s all about hospitality. He knows how to walk into a room and provide great guest service, whether it’s to a boardroom full of executives or to a guest visiting Sift. Adam is also an inspirational leader – he’s behind the line, baking and interacting with his team. His character and how he delivers as a leader fit perfectly with our brand,” said Jeff Hamilton, president & general manager at Mohegan Sun. “Sift Bake Shop and A.T.Y Bar & Bonbons are the next step in our immersive food & beverage strategy. Over the course of the last few years, we’ve been able to open more world-class dining establishments that have really transformed our property into a food & beverage destination. We’re really excited to see the continued success of Sift Bake Shop and A.T.Y Bar & Bonbons, especially at our new location.”
“We are so thrilled to be the newest addition to Mohegan Sun,” said Adam Young. “Sift has grown significantly over the past 10 years and to be able to scale, you really have to be surrounded by people who buy into and understand your vision. In our case, that includes the spirit of hospitality and being committed to the service of others, and that is something that I have found during my time working with Mohegan Sun. We certainly hope we bring a little delight to everyone, and we look forward to welcoming each and every one of our new guests.”
Sift Bake Shop is a 2,930 square-foot bakery that features a variety of artisanal breads, breakfast pastries, and sweet & savory delights. All menu items start from scratch with fresh ingredients, and every menu item from Sift Bake Shop is made in-house in a state-of-the-art kitchen. Signature desserts at Sift Bake Shop include the chocolate croissant, the Opera Cake, the Pecan Sticky Bun, and the Carrot Cake Roulade. Guests can also enjoy select gluten-free cookies. Guests can pair their treats with an assortment of coffees, teas, lattes, artisanal beverages and more.
Adjacent to Sift Bake Shop is A.T.Y Bar & Bonbons, presented by Grey Goose. This boutique concept includes a 570 square-foot bar that pairs delicately crafted cocktails, wine and reserves with decadent chocolate bonbons. All bonbons are also created in-house, and to-go packages are specially packaged by hand. A.T.Y also serves small plates, including cheese and charcuterie and the dip trio, comprised of rotating dips with a toasted baguette.
Mohegan Sun’s partnership with A.T.Y Hospitality started in 2019 when Adam Young joined the celebrity chef lineup at one of the property’s largest events, the Sun Wine & Food Fest. At Sun Wine & Food Fest 2025, Adam was the presenting chef at the CT Spotlight featuring Preston Ridge Vineyard, while also participating in the ever-popular Celebrity Chef Dine Around and Sun Wine & Food Fest’s anchor event, the Grand Tasting.
For more information about Sift Bake Shop and A.T.Y Bar and Bonbons, presented by Grey Goose, visit mohegansun.com/sift.
Photos from yesterday’s ribbon cutting ceremony can be found here.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
Accomplished Sales Executive to Drive Mohegan Sun’s Comprehensive MICE Operations and Marketing Strategy
Kimberly Simone has been named by Mohegan Sun as the new VP of Sales & Marketing. Simone, who joined Mohegan Sun in 2023 as Director of Sales, brings nearly two decades of expertise in marketing and comprehensive sales within the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. In her new role, Simone will spearhead and oversee strategic initiatives for the expansive Earth Expo & Convention Center, the Sky Convention Center, and various other venues across Mohegan Sun and the nearby Mohegan Sun Golf Club.
“Kim Simone has demonstrated exceptional insight into market trends, and will now have a well-deserved promotion to VP as she oversees the impressive, large-scale and diverse sales and marketing strategy for Mohegan Sun’s Meetings & Conventions,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & GM of Mohegan Sun. “We are thrilled to welcome her to the Executive team. Her leadership, expertise and dedication in delivering exceptional experiences for our meeting planners, major groups, and guests is a tremendous asset to Mohegan Sun.”
Since joining Mohegan Sun in September 2023, Simone has played a key role in driving growth to Mohegan Sun’s convention sales and property-wide hospitality. In her new role, Kim will continue to lead Mohegan Sun’s Convention Sales team, focusing on booking the world-class venues like the Earth Expo & Convention Center. This venue is home to the 125,000 square foot Earth Expo Center, which is set to host big-time shows this spring & summer such as the Wicked Gluten Free Expo on March 29th; the New England Tattoo Expo from April 11th – 13th; the New England Spring Craft Festival on May 10th – 11th; the CT Pickle Festival on July 25th and the return of TerrifiCon from August 8th-10th.
Simone is also a graduate of Bryant College in Smithfield, RI, and the Walt Disney World College Program in Orlando, Florda. She sat on the board for the CT River Valley chapter of MPI (Meeting Professionals International) as the Vice President of Membership and the Vice President of Marketing and Communications. Simone was also a member of the New York and New England chapters of PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) and served as a member of the Greater New York Chapter of HSMAI (Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International). Simone also sits on the Executive Committee of the Connecticut Convention & Sports Bureau Board of Directors. Previous conventions & sales experience include the Director of Sales at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina in Old Saybrook, CT as well as the Director of Resort Sales at Foxwoods Casino Resort from 2019 to 2021. Prior to this role, Simone was the National Sales Manager for the resort, strategically managing sales operations while tracking and analyzing data to strengthen forward-looking strategy.
In addition to Mohegan Sun’s two large-scale convention centers, various venues across the 5.5 million square-foot entertainment destination can host major conferences, private parties, meetings and conventions and that includes Mohegan Sun Arena, Comix Roadhouse, the Cabaret Theatre, TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge, novelle, Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook, Vista Lounge at Wombi Rock and unique outdoor event spaces like the new and improved Sun Patio at Mohegan Sun. For more information on all things Meetings & Conventions at Mohegan Sun, visit meetings.mohegansun.com
Kimberly Simone currently resides in Mystic, CT.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
WHAT: Mohegan Sun Golf Club is getting ready for the 2025 season and looking to fill various positions at a hiring event on Thursday, March 20th.
WHEN/WHERE: Thursday, March 20th
10:00am – 4:00pm
Mohegan Sun Golf Club
IN DETAIL: Mohegan Sun Golf Club, located at 7 Dows Lane in Baltic, CT, is looking for candidates for both full-time and seasonal roles. Current available positions include full-time and seasonal cooks (including a full-time master cook position), food servers, shop clerks, bag room club car attendants, groundskeepers and a seasonal office coordinator. Those interested in working at one of the top golf destinations New England has to offer are encouraged to attend the hiring event on Thursday, March 20th from 10:00am – 4:00pm.
“Our hard-working staff is what allowed us to be recently recognized as one of the “Top 50 Casino Golf Courses” by Golfweek,” said Philip Krick Jr., PGA Master Professional and VP & General Manager of Mohegan Sun Golf Club. “We take pride in delivering exceptional customer service which is shown by the food we serve, the interactions we have, and the grounds our guests play on. I look forward to meeting those who are interested in joining this top-notch team.”
Guests interested in applying can visit the Mohegan Sun careers website.
