Kasey Hanney Named General Manager of Stormont Vail Events Center
The Stormont Vail Events Center is proud to announce the appointment of Kasey Hanney as its new General Manager. A seasoned leader in event and venue operations with more than a decade of experience, Hanney steps into the role following a successful tenure overseeing large-scale sports, entertainment, and hospitality operations across Kansas.
Hanney most recently served as Assistant General Manager with Oak View Group at the University of Kansas, where she played a key role in launching and optimizing concessions, premium services, and catering operations for major athletics venues, including during high-profile renovation projects. Her leadership helped establish elevated service standards, enhance premium guest experiences, and drive operational efficiency in high-volume environments.
Prior to that, Hanney served as General Manager at Tony’s Pizza Events Center in Salina, where she oversaw all aspects of venue management, event and booking strategy, and client relations. Under her leadership, the facility strengthened its event portfolio, improved operational performance, and deepened community engagement.
Throughout her career, Hanney has built a reputation for aligning operational excellence with revenue growth, fostering high-performing teams, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. Her background also includes premium hospitality leadership with Legends Hospitality at Sporting Kansas City, where she managed VIP and corporate client experiences at Children’s Mercy Park.
In her new role, Hanney will oversee all operations, strategic planning, event development, and community partnerships for the Stormont Vail Events Center, with a focus on expanding programming, enhancing guest experiences, and strengthening the venue’s impact within the region.
“We are thrilled to appoint Kasey Hanney as General Manager of the Stormont Vail Events Center. Kasey brings an exceptional depth of experience from her tenure within Oak View Group and across the live entertainment and venue management industry. Her strategic mindset, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to excellence make her uniquely qualified to lead this venue into its next chapter. We are confident that under her direction, the Stormont Vail Events Center will continue to grow as a premier destination, delivering impactful events and bringing outstanding content to Topeka and Shawnee County," said Rick Hontz, Senior Vice President for Oak View Group Venue Management.
“I’m incredibly honored to join the Stormont Vail Events Center and be part of such a dedicated and talented team,” said Hanney. “This organization has a strong reputation and deep roots in the community. I’m excited to build on that foundation, create new opportunities, and continue delivering experiences that bring people together. To the team and to Shawnee County—thank you for the warm welcome. I look forward to what we will accomplish together.”
Hanney’s appointment signals a continued commitment to excellence, innovation, and community engagement for the Stormont Vail Events Center as it enters its next chapter.
