Rose Bowl Aquatics Center adds Pasadena venue chief Michael Ross to board

By AI, Created 5:18 PM UTC, May 18, 2026, /AGP/ – The Rose Bowl Aquatics Center named Pasadena Center Operating Company CEO Michael Ross to its Board of Directors as the Pasadena nonprofit expands programs and prepares for LA28. Ross brings 20 years leading local venues and will help align facility and marketing efforts ahead of the Olympic Games.

Why it matters: - Michael Ross joins the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center at a moment when the Pasadena facility is growing its programs and preparing for the LA28 Olympic Games. - Ross brings two decades of leadership at major Pasadena venues, which could help the aquatics center with operations, community reach and venue planning. - The board appointment ties RBAC more closely to the city’s broader sports and event infrastructure.

What happened: - The Rose Bowl Aquatics Center appointed Michael Ross to its Board of Directors. - Ross is the chief executive officer of the Pasadena Center Operating Company. - Ross has led Pasadena Center Operating Company for 20 years. - Pasadena Center Operating Company manages the Pasadena Convention Center, Pasadena Civic Auditorium, the Pasadena Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Pasadena Ice Skating Center. - RBAC announced the appointment on May 14, 2026.

The details: - Ross has a master’s degree in Recreation and Park Administration from Central Michigan University. - Ross’s background includes facility management, marketing and community engagement. - Ross previously served on the board of the First Tee of Pasadena at Brookside Golf Course. - RBAC said Ross’s experience in facilities and marketing positions him to help elevate the organization locally and globally. - RBAC continues to expand through swim lessons, water safety programs and competitive aquatics. - The aquatics center serves Pasadena and the greater Los Angeles community through water safety, fitness, youth development and competitive excellence. - RBAC is a legacy venue of the 1984 Olympic Games and a future LA28 venue. - More information is available on the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center website.

Between the lines: - The board addition suggests RBAC wants leaders who understand Pasadena’s venue ecosystem and can support Olympic-related coordination. - Ross’s mix of civic, marketing and facilities experience fits a group that is likely balancing community service with high-profile event readiness. - Melanie Sauer, RBAC executive director, called Ross’s leadership experience, Pasadena ties and future-facing vision a strong fit for the board. - Ross said he is excited to contribute to RBAC’s continued growth and community impact.

What’s next: - RBAC will continue expanding its aquatics and water safety programs. - Ross is expected to help guide planning as the organization prepares for LA28. - The board appointment gives RBAC another senior local operator as the center looks to widen its reach.