Motivated by Music

Sofia Moussan has always been intrigued by the music industry. Shortly after starting college, she got involved with Movin’ On, the annual student-run spring music festival at University Park, despite the 2021 show being virtual. The following year, she joined its executive board in operations and then, as a junior, was elected executive director—a role she’s now held for back-to-back festivals. “There aren’t many universities that offer students the opportunity to organize events at this scale,” says Moussan. Movin’ On is one of the biggest university concerts of its kind: She oversees a team of 80 students, and they are anticipating more than 15,000 attendees at the intramural fields on April 26.

For Students, By Students

Landing big names—previous headliners include national acts like Jack Harlow, MGMT, and Wilco—is part of the gig—but so is promoting student talent. Moussan organizes  “Battle” (formerly “Battle of the Bands”), a showcase for campus acts, and the winners perform during Movin’ On.

Rooted in Rhythm

As a teen, Moussan sang in a band and did shows through School of Rock programs; while at Penn State, she’s performed at THON. Although partial to rock and alternative pop, she listens to a wide range of music, including Latin; her family is from Mexico City, and Spanish is her first language.

Clean Fun

Moussan helped create Movin’ On’s long-term sustainability plan, pushing toward zero-waste goals through recycling, composting, and using green energy to power future events.

Setting the Stage

Moussan is minoring in recreation, park, and tourism management and earning a Penn State certificate in meeting and event management. She’s toured major arenas, worked Bryce Jordan Center shows, learned about the ins and outs of ticketing, vendor negotiations, and networking, and interned at festivals including Lollapalooza. Says Moussan: “Event management is really an art.”

Hometown
Randolph, N.J.

Claim to Fame
Executive Director, Movin’ On 2023 and 2024    

On Her Playlist
Rush, Paramore, Miley Cyrus, Greta Van Fleet

Campus Activities
THON, LifeLink PSU, and Equity Resource Hub Project