Lydia Thurston serves as the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at the 500 Festival, where she leverages her extensive experience in corporate partnership management to drive revenue and enhance community engagement. With nearly 30 years of expertise spanning college athletics, the NBA, and motorsports, Lydia...
Lydia Thurston serves as the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at the 500 Festival, where she leverages her extensive experience in corporate partnership management to drive revenue and enhance community engagement. With nearly 30 years of expertise spanning college athletics, the NBA, and motorsports, Lydia brings a wealth of knowledge to her current role, focusing on the development and execution of strategic partnership plans that align with the festival's mission to produce life-enriching events and programs.
At the 500 Festival, Lydia is instrumental in cultivating high-end corporate partnerships, overseeing sponsorship activation, and managing a robust corporate membership program. Her strategic vision not only generates significant revenue to support the festival's diverse events, including the iconic Indy 500, but also fosters meaningful relationships with local businesses and organizations. By coordinating efforts with the festival's foundation, Lydia ensures that grants and donor contributions are effectively integrated into the overall partnership strategy, enhancing the impact of community initiatives.
Lydia's skill set is complemented by her proficiency in event planning, marketing, and public relations, allowing her to craft compelling narratives that resonate with potential partners. Her ability to manage budgets and execute successful sales strategies has positioned her as a key player in the organization's growth and sustainability. As she continues to innovate and expand the 500 Festival's partnership landscape, Lydia remains committed to celebrating the rich culture and community spirit of Indianapolis, ensuring that every partnership is not just a transaction, but a collaboration that enriches the lives of residents and visitors alike.
