Meet The Team

Get to know the team that turns moments into memories. We are here to make planning simple, welcoming, and seamlessly tailored to your vision.

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Our Stories

JENNIFER KNIELE
Associate Vice President of Events
215.409.6781
[email protected]

Jennifer’s story with the National Constitution Center began more than 20 years ago, and since then she has been an integral part of the NCC family. Her story began shortly after completing an internship at Madison Square Garden, where she first discovered her passion for live events. She never imagined finding another venue that could inspire her in the same way until she stepped inside the NCC. From that moment, she knew it was something truly special. Starting out in educational events, Jennifer quickly followed her love for special events and joined the Events team, where she has since held every role within the department. Today, she thrives in her position, collaborating with a wide variety of clients, internal teams, and partners to create memorable experiences and events that make history. What she values most about her work are the people—the colleagues, vendors, and clients who make each day meaningful. Building strong relationships and helping clients bring their visions to life are what drive her success and fulfillment. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending quality time with her family, taking her daughter to the park, and soaking up the sunshine at the beach. She’s also a music lover who enjoys a good concert.

 

ALI VAN NORDEN
Director of Events
215.409.6766
[email protected]

Ali’s story with the National Constitution Center began in 2010, when she decided to shift her career from the world of sports to the vibrant hospitality scene within Philadelphia’s cultural community. A proud Penn State graduate, Ali earned her degree in sports journalism in 2007 and went on to work with the Philadelphia Phillies through the 2010 baseball season. Eager for a new challenge, she joined the NCC’s Group Sales department later that year and discovered her passion for creating memorable guest experiences. In 2014, Ali transitioned to the Events department, where she has remained ever since—bringing energy, creativity, and dedication to every event she helps bring to life. For Ali, the best part of her job is the people. The close-knit community of colleagues at the NCC has been her greatest source of motivation and joy, fueling nearly two decades of commitment to the institution. Outside of work, you’ll find Ali at Citizens Bank Park cheering on the Phillies, curled up with a good book, or embracing her love of Halloween all year long.

 

CAROL SHORT
Director of Event Sales and Client Experience
215.409.6693
[email protected]

Carol’s story with the National Constitution Center began when she toured the museum as a child and then returned to tour the new gallery of Princess Diana, which she fell in love with. Carol also served as the director of catering with Brulee Catering/Rhubarb Hospitality Collection at the National Constitution Center for 13 years before becoming the Director of Event Sales at the National Constitution Center. Carol brings over 15 years of experience in hospitality and event leadership where she led high-performing teams and executed exceptional corporate, nonprofit, and social events. Known for her strategic vision and client-focused approach, Carol is passionate about creating memorable experiences that reflect both the significance of the venue and the goals of each organization she partners with. On her free time, you can find Carol cheering on her son and daughter on the hockey rink and taking as many vacations as she can fit in between her beloved career!

 

ROSS WILSON
Associate Event Sales Manager
215.409.6780
[email protected]

Ross’s story with the National Constitution Center began when he studied tourism and hospitality management at Temple University, receiving a BS with a concentration in events leadership and fell in love with hospitality and the city of Philadelphia. Ross has a passion for hospitality and service that sparked young when he experienced his first concert. With knowledge gained through his education and background experience working for some of the largest hospitality organizations in the world, Ross will approach your event planning process with a personal touch, keeping you and your guest's event experience top of mind. With a desire to provide memorable experiences in a hospitable environment from beginning to end, the friendly touch provided by Ross ensures your event will be just what you are looking for.

 

PRAPEY MAO
Manager of Events
215.409.6616
[email protected]

Prapey’s story with the National Constitution Center began at a young age after watching The Mummy (1999) and the National Treasure film series, which sparked her fascination with history, artifacts, and exploration. Born in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and raised in Philadelphia, she earned a B.S. in Tourism and Hospitality Management from Temple University and began building her career in hospitality and event operations throughout the city. After graduation, she spent three years teaching English in rural Japan before returning to Philadelphia to continue her career in events at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, where she combined her passion for events with her love of museums and storytelling. Prapey believes that events of any size can create lasting memories. From intimate meetings to large corporate events and weddings, she brings a warm, guest-focused approach to every experience. She values the opportunity to bring people together in a space where history, civic dialogue, and meaningful experiences intersect. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, camping, and rock climbing.

 

MARA LYNN VELTRI
Manager of Events
215.409.6727
[email protected]

Mara’s story with the National Constitution Center began with a lifelong love of the art and history of Philadelphia. This led her to study art history and business at La Salle University, earning a BA in 2018 and MBA in 2025. After leading University Events at La Salle University, she joined the National Constitution Center as Manager of Events. With expertise in high-level event planning and project management, Mara is dedicated to creating purposeful, mission-aligned experiences. Outside of work she enjoys running, photography, and volunteering for those in need.

 

SARAH STALTER
Events Coordinator
215.409.6685
[email protected]

Sarah’s story with the National Constitution Center began when she decided to combine her life-long love of museums with logistics and event planning. As a proud member of the Gator Nation, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with a minor in Leadership from the University of Florida. After moving to Philadelphia for her Masters of Science in Arts Administration and Museum Leadership at Drexel University, she made Philly her home. She has worked in historic institutions across the city, including Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site and Moore College of Art and Design. Now, at the National Constitution Center, Sarah enjoys collaborating with the team to create memorable events for the community which combines two passions: history and great parties. When Sarah is not at work, you can find her at the library, kickboxing practice, or hanging out with her pet corn snake.

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