Executive Team 2025-2026
Who We Are
Ella is a senior from Lee’s Summit, Missouri, majoring in chemistry and journalism with a minor in law and legal reasoning.
“Coming to SMU, I knew I wanted to get to know as many people as possible, and The Big Event stood out! Being an out-of-state student as well, I wanted to give back and connect with my new Dallas community. Not only does TBE provide a space to serve others in the Dallas area, but it allows for students across SMU’s campus to connect, form meaningful friendships, and have fun!!”
Peyton Kirtley
Assistant Executive Director
Peyton is a junior from Tampa, Florida, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Neuroscience and Advertising.
"When I first came to SMU, The Big Event immediately stood out to me because of its unique mission: giving back to the Dallas community in a meaningful way. This organization creates an incredible opportunity to serve alongside some of the most kindhearted and inspiring people on campus. Being part of TBE has already had a massive impact on my college experience and given me unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships, and passion for service! I am beyond excited to continue this journey and to keep making a difference this year!"
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Ella Skelsey
Executive Director
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Valeria Carrera
Director of Recruitment
Valeria is a junior from Mexico City, majoring in Biomedical Engineering on the Pre-Med track with minors in Chemistry and Biology.
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“Even before coming to SMU, I knew I wanted to be part of The Big Event. Community service has always been an important part of my life, and it has shaped me into the person I am today. To me, giving back means being part of something greater, leaving the world a little better each day. The Big Event has been special to me since my freshman year, and it has surrounded me with hardworking, enthusiastic, and service-oriented peers who share my passion for making a positive impact. It has also given me incredible friendships, countless fun memories, and constant encouragement to grow as a leader. I’m so grateful to continue with The Big Event in my third year, and I’m excited to see the impact we will create together this year!”
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Saskia Jakubcin
Director of Programming
Saskia is a junior from Greenwich, Connecticut, majoring in Political Science and Art History with a minor in French.
“I joined The Big Event last year because I felt that there was more I could do on my part to get connected with the Dallas Community, and since joining, I have no regrets! It has been so fulfilling to give back, and I am so grateful for the amazing team we have to lead the way! I am very excited to see the positive change we continue to bring this year.”
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Lily Peck
Director of Marketing and Communications
Lily is a junior from Flower Mound, Texas majoring in Journalism and minoring in Psychology.
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"Giving back to the community has always been something I truly care about. The Big Event has given me the chance to work alongside passionate, service-driven people who share that same goal of making a difference. Through this organization, I’ve gained not only leadership opportunities but also incredible friendships and mentors who inspire me every day. I’m so grateful for everything TBE has brought into my life and the impact it’s allowed me to be a part of."
Izzy Singleton
Director of Internal Affairs
Izzy is a sophomore from Frisco, Texas, majoring in Psychology with minors in Law and Legal Reasoning and Business.
“I was drawn to The Big Event because it combines two things I genuinely care about, service and community. TBE has given me the opportunity to support others in Dallas while also bringing people on campus together in fun and memorable ways. To me, The Big Event is about cultivating a culture of excitement and energy for serving the community that inspires people to continue making a difference long after the event is over.”
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Evan Dickerson
Director of Finance
Evan is a Sophomore from Fort Worth, Texas majoring in Finance.
“When I first heard about The Big Event my Freshman year, I knew I wanted to get involved in the positive impact they were creating at SMU and across the Dallas community. I immediately applied, and am so grateful to have joined a leadership position in the Finance Committee. Having the ability to take on this integral role during Freshman year was incredible, and I loved helping put on some of SMU’s most significant service events. I’m so excited to step even further into The Big Event as the Director of Finance this year, and work alongside so many amazing leaders. Helping those in need our community is our number one priority, and together with the support of SMU students, I know that we can continue to make a difference.”
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Kate Mark
Director of Service
Kate is a Junior from Houston, Texas majoring in International Studies and Art History with a minor in Human Rights.
"I joined The Big Event my freshman year in hopes to find a community of people who valued service as much as I did. I am pleased to say that I found just that and so much more. The Big Event has allowed me to build valuable connections and grow as an individual!"
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Emma Foster
Director of Logistics
Emma is a Sophomore from Arlington, Texas, majoring in Finance and International Studies with a minor in Spanish.
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“I joined The Big Event after hearing about it from others who were involved, and I instantly fell in love! I love giving back to my community, and The Big Event has given me the chance to grow as a leader while also meeting so many amazing friends. I’m grateful to be part of an organization that brings students together to serve, and I’m so excited to see the impact we make in Dallas this year!”
The Big Event at SMU
We are so excited to serve as your Big Event Team! Each of us is deeply committed to giving back to the Dallas community. It is truly an honor to organize the country's largest day of collegiate-led community service.