Meet Downtown Summerlin’s dynamic duo, Jeanie Haddox and Emma Gegen, who together, are responsible for securing and staging scores of events and activations that bring the destination to life!
Jeanie Haddox, Sr. Director of Business Development
Number of years with Howard Hughes: 8
Number of years in the industry: 20
Describe your role and how it pertains to Downtown Summerlin:
The saying, “a jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one,” is a great representation of my role. I do many different things from bringing in brand activations, hosting events, creating unique sponsorships, leasing pop-up locations to local businesses and helping to support local nonprofits.
Accomplishments/favorite events during current role:
Creating the weekly Farmers Market and bringing Vintage Market Days to Las Vegas/Downtown Summerlin has been a real treat. I love supporting small and locally owned businesses, and in doing so, we can offer them a platform to test products, create a sense of community and grow their ventures.
Any fun facts about Downtown Summerlin you would like to share?
In the last year, we hosted events and activations at Downtown Summerlin that have generated $1.5 million for local charities!
What is your favorite part of Downtown Summerlin?
We have a stellar team that since opening, has been a vital part of creating memories and building events for the community. It has taken us years to build this robust calendar that offers something unique within the city for everyone to enjoy no matter where they live.
Emma Gegen, Events Coordinator
Number of years with Howard Hughes: 2
Number of years in the industry: 5
Describe your role and how it pertains to Downtown Summerlin:
I think of my role as being a conductor for all that happens within the destination. I specialize in the logistics of making sure that the companies and nonprofits we work with to stage events at Downtown Summerlin are prepared and have a successful experience.
Accomplishments/favorite events during current role:
Learning all about County event permits is my biggest accomplishment. Who knew that there so many different permits required for special events?! Touch a Truck was a really special event for me this year as we saw so many happy faces, and Family 2 Family Connection, the event’s beneficiary, had record-breaking ticket sales. I also enjoyed working with Budweiser to bring in the Clydesdales for the holidays. Seeing the crowd react to the horses’ majestic cadence through our parade was magical.
Any fun facts about Downtown Summerlin you would like to share?
The farmers market supports over 100 small businesses every weekend, and most of the businesses are family-owned and operated.
What is your favorite part of Downtown Summerlin?
No week is the same. We will host craft beer connoisseurs one week, and the next, we have families sitting on the lawn enjoying a performance of High School Musical. We start preparing for the holidays in the summer to ensure the experience for visitors is perfect. I am truly never bored!