Dalton Fischer’s fascination with theme parks began when he was a child, fueled by an early encounter with the simulation game, RollerCoaster Tycoon. 

Thanks to a quality undergraduate education in the College of Business at Missouri State University — and his persistent attitude — Fischer found a fulfilling job in his dream industry. 

He serves as communications manager for the Silver Dollar City (SDC) Company, which includes an internationally awarded 1880s-style theme park, Showboat Branson Belle dinner cruise, White Water outdoor water park and SDC Campground in Branson. 

An MSU education 

Hailing from Butler, Missouri, Fischer came to Missouri State in 2014 to study marketing. He graduated in 2017 with a BS in Marketing, specializing in sales.   

While at MSU, Fischer took advantage of many opportunities the university offered. 

“I became a member of Theta Chi Fraternity (MSU’s Iota Beta chapter) and started MSU’s Themed Entertainment Association. This association aimed at building awareness of the themed entertainment industry and providing interested students a forum to share ideas and build their understanding of the industry from a global perspective,” Fischer said. 

 His educational journey at MSU continues as he pursues a graduate degree. 

“I’m currently finishing my online MBA. If all goes according to plan, I’ll graduate in spring 2025,” Fischer said.  

The path to SDC  

During his undergraduate years at Missouri State, Fischer was turned down for a SDC internship twice. Instead of giving up, he applied one more time with one remaining semester to go. This time, he applied for an internship in the attractions division.  

During his interview, the hiring manager strongly encouraged him to instead consider a publicity internship and that day phoned the senior publicist to get the ball rolling. 

“I got the position, and the rest is history at the park!” Fischer said.  

An expert in marketing and communications  

As SDC’s communications manager since 2023, Fischer plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s narrative and engaging with diverse audiences.  

From orchestrating press conferences for new attractions to cultivating media relationships, Fischer’s responsibilities encompass a variety of tasks aimed at enhancing SDC’s brand visibility and reputation. 

These include pitching newsworthy content to the media, hosting media visits and interviews, assisting with crisis communications, producing content for the content team, writing and distributing press releases and maintaining the company’s online press releases.  

“One of my favorite aspects of my position is crafting our capital and product announcements for the park. I’ve been fortunate to work on our press conferences and communications strategies for various rides and attractions,” Fischer said.  

Words of wisdom   

 Based on his experience, Fischer believes “the only thing you can control is yourself.” 

“Know what the important things are in your studies, career and life. Worry about those things but stop worrying about things out of your control and things that don’t matter in the long-term,” he said.    

Learn more about the undergraduate marketing program