Senior Woman Leaders share about the roles they fill and the impact they are having on their campuses.
"Lead, communicate, advocate for student-athletes."
Natasha Ademakinwa Shawnee State (Ohio)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Organized coaches training for leadership development, communicating regularly with my athletic director on decision-making within the department, and advocate for student-athletes.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? I am also the Soccer Director (Head women's and men's soccer coach).
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department? I feel I can make a difference for the student-athletes. Help give them more of a positive experience at the university.
"Helping to encourage and lead conversations about gender equity ensures that members of our university community are mindful of gender equity as it relates to hiring, salaries, and budget allocation."
Molly Altorfer Mount Mercy (Iowa)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Serve as a member of the senior athletic administration team and consult on major departmental and university initiatives; participate in providing guidance and direction on Title IX related interests; assist with the reporting of the EADA report and lead sports-associated gender equity conversations; supervise athletic programs and coaches; liaison for the Council for Student Athletes group on campus; advocate for student-athlete well being.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL?
Assistant Athletic Director
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I think it is helpful to have a senior athletic administration member who is specifically attuned to advocating for women and under-represented populations on campus and within the athletic department for student-athletes and staff. Helping to encourage and lead conversations about gender equity ensures that members of our university community are mindful of gender equity as it relates to hiring, salaries, and budget allocation.
"I feel my biggest contribution is providing an ear and advocating for student-athletes who are experiencing struggles and want help navigating those challenges."
Bridget Barney MidAmerica Nazarene (Kan.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I am responsible for internal operations, compliance, act as a Title IX liaison, oversee ASA and serve on many various committees.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? I serve as Assistant Athletics Director, Compliance and SWL.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I feel my biggest contribution is providing an ear and advocating for student-athletes who are experiencing struggles and want help navigating those challenges. Many times our female athletes and coaches feel more comfortable initially coming to another female for input and best next steps. The relationships formed during these times has been life-changing and hopefully develops trust and confidence. I also love coming alongside our coaches to take some load off of them so they can focus on their passion ... coaching. Our programs have seen substantial growth and success in part by the support provided to them.
"I feel like I'm truly an advocate for our student-athletes as well as our head coaches. I have a great knowledge of each of our sport teams and the history of their programs and our athletic department."
Doneva Bays Milligan (Tenn.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I oversee our Student Athlete Advisory Committee, Mentoring and onboarding of coaches, Serve on our athletic marketing committee, oversee weightroom schedule and help with facilitiy improvements.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? SWL, Head Women's Volleyball Coach, Head men's volleyball coach, part-time faculty, Athletic committee leader, AAC Sport Chair.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I feel like I'm truly an advocate for our student-athletes as well as our head coaches. I have a great knowledge of each of our sport teams and the history of their programs and our athletic department. I contribute to us fulfilling our mission and devloping our vision for the future. With the addition of our SAAC we have had the opportunity to address alot of issues and find solutions. We have also added an annual athletic awards ceremony in our BUFFYS that is a highlight of the year.
"I think my greatest impact has been improving the facilities which in return will better the overall experience of our athletes."
Linda Bell Dillard (La.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? The responsibilities have been similar as I try to advance the athletic department as well as the facilities in order to create a championship environment. I am also working towards empowering and teaching the people around me so that we can all move in the same direction.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? I serve as the SWL as well as the athletics director and I also hold a seat on the Dillard University Cabinet.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I think my greatest impact has been improving the facilities which in return will better the overall experience of our athletes. I am a student-athlete-driven individual, so I would like for them to have everything they see fit in order to better themselves in and out of competition. I think that my staff and I have done a tremendous job in providing the necessities and going the extra step in order to provide our student-athletes with the best of the best.
"An advocate for what's right and wrong in a program."
Jessica Biegert Kansas Wesleyan
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I attend institutional directional committee meetings once a month. I mentor female coaches. I meet with unhappy female athletes. I assist in personal information with athletic trainers when it refers to females problems.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Head womens volleyball coach, adjunct professor and SWL.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
With being an advocate for what's right and wrong in a program.
"I think I am making a difference because I am able to work with other coaches and have been able to mentor our younger coaches."
Melissa Blessington Ottawa (Kan.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I have helped with admin with hiring of new coaches. I also, help with the on-boarding process once someone is hired. I assist with roster committee and that includes mentoring current and new coaching on roster management. I also have been on a few tasks forces on enrollment.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Director of Volleyball- This includes 2 JV, one Club, 1 Varsity, 1 Men's and 1 beach team.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I think I am making a difference because I am able to work with other coaches and have been able to mentor our younger coaches. In the conference I am not sure my position has helped foster anything new. I am our rater for both women's and beach and I feel like I take on a pretty active role in both our conference and within the NAIA.
"Providing student-athlete psychological inclusion training with a focus on the athlete's emotional well-being."
Tamasha Bolden Florida National
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? In my new role I've taken on the responsibility of providing student-athlete psychological inclusion training with a focus on the athlete's emotional well-being.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? I am the director of compliance and the assistant athletic director.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department? I make a difference in my athletic department by providing a level of competitiveness as I have created local partnerships to aid in the skill development of our athletes. I give a sense of social relatability and psychological resource for our student-athletes. Bringing my collegiate and professional athletic experience to situations that require transparency and understanding to our athletes creates a culture of expression and unity.
"I pray that I am making a difference in my conference and in NAIA by being a resource to all coaches for NAIA policies, coaching questions and being a conference rater."
Carry Brown Florida College
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Being a mentor to female athletes.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Head Volleyball Coach Champions of Character Liaison Senior Women’s Leader Sports Management Professor Conference Rater.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I pray that I am showing the athletes that they can have a career while being an involved parent and spouse. I also hope I am making a difference by sharing God’s word with my athletes and being a godly example to them. I pray that I am making a difference in my conference and in NAIA by being a resource to all coaches for NAIA policies, coaching questions and being a conference rater.
"I am working to enhance the student-athlete experience by providing opportunities to be more successful on and off the field as well as after graduation."
Christi Cano Texas A&M-San Antonio
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? As a third-year athletics program at Texas A&M University-San Antonio I have been involved in facility planning meetings for upcoming projects. I have been more engaged with athletic budgeting and corporate-community engagement for fundraising efforts on behalf of athletics.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Assistant Athletic Director/Head Men's Golf Coach/SWL
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
With the newly appointed SWL role for a brand-new athletics program I am working to enhance the student-athlete experience by providing opportunities to be more successful on and off the field as well as after graduation. Through organizing fundraisers and creating learning opportunities we hope to provide that next-level student-athlete experience financially and individually. The SWL Lunch and Learn Webinars have been extremely helpful in providing ideas to cultivate plans for our new program. I look forward to being a part of the student-athlete's journey and knowing we made an impact during their journey as a student-athlete.
"Meeting with every new coach and student-athlete advisory committee. Mentor young female students athletes and coaches."
Shelia Crockett Cumberland University (Tenn.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Shelia Crockett, SWL and Assistant AD- Meeting with every new coach about their responsibilities in the athletic department, meeting with student athlete advisory committee, managing the end of the year student-athletes banquet and managing class attendance.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Shelia Crockett is the SWL and Assistant AD at Cumberland University My current job is Associate Director of Intercollegiate Athletics & Senior Women's Administrator.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
Shelia has many responsibilities, but she continues to mentor young female student-athletes and coaches to enhance their experience for a lifetime. Her goal is to improve the entire department by serving others through heart servant leadership.
"I have been gathering resources and participating in programming to help elevate and support our female athletes and staff members."
Amanda Diley-Weaver IU Southeast (Ind.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I have taken on duties to ensure that our female student-athletes are getting the proper support services and exposure that all of our athletes deserve. I have been gathering resources and participating in programming to help elevate and support our female athletes and staff members.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Currently 4. I am officially the Associate Director of Athletics and currently serving as the Interim Director of Athletics. I am also our department's Champions of Character liaison in addition to serving as the SWL.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I am able to serve as a voice to make sure that the unique needs of our female student-athletes are considered when making decision at the department, university, or conference level. I believe that having a seat at the table makes all the difference in the world. Our female student-athletes are amazing representatives of our school, conference, and the NAIA and having a champion to voice that ensures that they receive the recognition they deserve and we all benefit from that.
"In my role as SWL, my institution benefits by me being a liaison between athletics and female student-athletes, coaches and staff."
Iris Dixon Missouri Baptist
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Assist the University’s athletic department to achieve the parallel goals of development of quality, competitive athletics teams and support the individual educational goals of student-athletes through management of the personnel, facility, and equipment resources available to the athletics program. Assist in the development of policies and procedures designed to assure achievement of internally and externally establish goals and objectives, and continuous evaluation of individual and unit performances toward achievement of those goals and objectives. Provides leadership in the focus of the recruitment effort of the University athletic programs and ensures compliance with the NAIA rules and regulations governing the recruitment of student-athletes by providing guidance and/or policies to team coaching staffs that prompts compliance with recruiting rules. Facilitate the attainment of personal development and academic goals by student-athletes through creating a philosophy which promotes those goals and establishes an environment conducive to both; providing opportunities for academic assistance to student-athletes if required, and along with the coaching staff, monitoring the academic progress of participating student-athletes. Assist in initiation of the development of new sport programs, as well as access and determine the continuance of existing teams. Assist in developing strategies and initiatives in conjunction with the Office of Equity and Compliance to promote the value of diversity and inclusion in intercollegiate athletics. Promotes a positive image of the intercollegiate athletics program and the University by participating in community and professional organizations and representing the University, as a spokesperson for women's intercollegiate athletics, at professional meetings and on community committees.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? 3 - Associate Director of Athletics for Compliance & Eligibility; Assistant Professor for Health and Sport Sciences, & SWL.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
In my role as SWL, my institution benefits by me being a liaison between athletics and female student-athletes, coaches and staff. By serving on various institutional committees, there is the opportunity to provide input from Athletics. My conference (AMC) has afforded me the opportunity to be on the Board of Athletic Administrators to aid in reviews of various updates, changes and decisions made. I am also able to provide input on behalf of my institution. On the national level, my continued presence at the NAIA national convention allows me to network and get more involved and represent my institution.
"It is my charge and goal to be the face to provide hope for the future generations to believe that they too can work hard and achieve their goals. The ear that allows a new coach or student-athlete to ask the tough & challenging questions and allow the comfort for them to speak freely."
Tamika Drake Missouri Valley
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? As the Assistant Athletic Director / SWL, my charge is to enhance the game day atmosphere for MVC students, faculty, staff and visitors to our home athletic events. Communicate regularly with the athletics director, not only for leadership development. Participate in providing leadership and guidance in the area of Title IX and gender equity planning for the overall department, to include both men’s and women’s sports. Assist the athletics director and senior management with strategic planning processes and decision making for the athletics department. Advocate for student-athletes well-being on and off the court, while also serving as a mentor and resource for direct reports and other athletics staff members.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Assistant Athletic Director / Director of Diversity & Inclusion / Faculty Advisor for VASA (student-athlete association) / Title IX Deputy Coordinator / Senior Women Leader
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
After teaching & coaching volleyball for over 16 years, I've noticed the void of minority female administrators at my schools that I've worked at in high school and college level. It is my charge and goal to be the face to provide hope for the future generations to believe that they too can work hard and achieve their goals. The ear that allows a new coach or student-athlete to ask the tough & challenging questions and allow the comfort for them to speak freely. The 'loud mouth' advocating for best practices for all coaches, student-athletes and staff so that they know whether it be in the stands, in the board room or in the classroom, there is someone there to support them and has their best interest at hand, both on and off the athletic field. I am here to provide an opportunity that so many are not able to partake in. Providing the open door that I didn't always see open for myself is what I've fallen in love with what the NAIA and the Heart of America Conference in all it provides it's student-athletes. Missouri Valley College has allowed me to grow professionally and personally in the last 9 years, so it's only right for me to pay it forward and provide the same opportunity for others in becoming a well-rounded young female or male entering into today's society.
"Implementation of new pay structures for the female coaches."
Janet Eaton-Smith Lourdes (Ohio)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I'm the Vice President of Athletics so the role is two in one for me. I am mindful with planning events that support gender equality. We often flip-flop double headers in sports and have the women play last. We take pride in supporting the National Girl and Women in Sports Day.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Two
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
Implementation of new pay structures for the female coaches. I oversee all of the athletics budgets to make sure there is equally throughout the line items. I am very intentional of equality in aspects of the programs, such as travel, equipment, uniforms, etc.
"The SWL position has allowed me to lead and engage with student-athletes at a greater capacity."
Jessica Garriga William Carey (Miss.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? In my new role as SWL, I've taken on the following responsibilities: Primary Contact for Opendorse NIL, Advisor for Association of Student Athletes (ASA), assist hiring committee for new athletic staff, edit student athlete handbook, aid in budget development, and serve on a task force for student athlete mental health and wellness.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? SWL, Assistant Mathematics Professor, & Assistant Basketball Coach.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
As an educator and coach, I'm passionate about servant leadership and inspiring the next generation. The SWL position has allowed me to lead and engage with student-athletes at a greater capacity. I'm able to help student-athletes build and monetize their brand for NIL, serve the community through ASA efforts, and advocate mental health wellness. Building stronger relationships with student-athletes grants me to know and serve them better at the administrative level. My academic and athletic background is unique and it allows me to contribute a different perspective to the athletic department. I'm fortunate to serve under great leadership, who understands my value and invests in my potential so that I can make a difference!
"I believe in leading by example: demonstrating the character and actions of a confident, capable woman in leadership."
Alexis Garrison Evergreen (Wash.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on?
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? 4
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
As the SWL at Evergreen State College, I am making a difference on campus, in the CCC conference, and the NAIA by being a role model for all female students and student-athletes. I believe in leading by example: demonstrating the character and actions of a confident, capable woman in leadership. I choose to bring my best in everything I do which means putting a smile on my face and stepping with my best foot forward no matter the situation. When I fail or make a mistake, I embrace it and choose to use it as a life lesson. In coaching and leadership, people are always watching so having an opportunity to demonstrate that perfection is not the goal but rather evolving, learning, and growing is very impactful. I strive to embrace not just success but also the loss. These are the moments which truly refine our character. I have modeled and preached to my team the importance of character and that we choose how we will conduct ourselves. The team chose to embrace being women of strong character. It is with great pride that we were able to practice this commitment through our Geoduck Recognition at each game regardless of whether or not we won. The Geoduck Recognition allowed athletes and coaches to be reminded after each game the true meaning of competition. And in that moment, to put their egos aside and acknowledge the strengths and skills of each athlete no matter what side of the court they were on. This was acknowledged by our conference and the NAIA when our team received the Sportsmanship Award two years in a row.
"I serve as the liaison for our athletic department and the WeCOACH program, and help develop educational resources for all of our coaches."
Natalie Graves Oklahoma City
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I am new to the NAIA and to the SWL role, and we are off to a great start! Oklahoma City University became the first NAIA school to partner with WeCOACH this fall. WeCOACH is a one-of-a-kind nonprofit membership organization dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches in all sports and levels through year-round professional growth and leadership development programs. I serve as the liaison for our athletic department and the WeCOACH program, and help develop educational resources for all of our coaches. I am also one of the Senior Administrators in the athletic department and I play a key role in department decision-making, as well as oversee Title IX and gender equity compliance.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? I serve as the Associate Athletic Director for Compliance and Academics, in addition to my SWL role.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
"help with budget questions, practice and playing declaration, day-to-day operations, team management, etc."
Ashley Harris Saint Mary-of-the-Woods (Ind.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Sport supervision of 4 other teams- help with budget questions, practice and playing declaration, day-to-day operations, team management. etc.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? 3
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I am involved in several other committees on campus in various departments. I also am the liaison for our Student Athlete Advisory Committee.
"The SWL position has created a safe space for athletes that don't know who else to talk to about certain topics."
Haley Holzem Our Lady of the Lake University (Texas)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Ensuring equity within our department and being a voice for student-athletes, especially our female students. I have met with every team to cover Title IX and ensure that they know the rules and regulations, sat in disciplinary hearings with our athletes, and monitoring of budgets within each team.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Assistant AD, Women's Athletics Administrator (SWL), Champions of Character Liaison
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I have attended several professional development conferences that have advanced my knowledge on compliance and Title IX to help promote equity in athletics. By using this knowledge, we are ensuring that all teams are given the right opportunities to excel (through budgetary dollars, scholarships, etc.). This position has also created an additional safe space for athletes that don't know who else to talk to about certain topics.
"What I truly enjoy most is working alongside our VP of Intercollegiate Athletics and other departments across campus in strategic planning to provide the best possible experience for our student-athletes."
Taylor Jennings Point (Ga.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? The responsibilities of the SWL vary from providing leadership/guidance to staff, advocating for student-athletes, to fully engaging in the hiring process of prospective staff but what I truly enjoy most is working alongside our Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics and other departments across campus in strategic planning to provide the best possible experience for our student-athletes.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Assistant Athletic Director/ SWL
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
At Point University, it is our mission to educate students for Christ-centered service and leadership throughout the world. Since taking on the role of SWL, I have put great effort into ensuring our student-athletes serve out this mission. I have been able to do this by revamping our Association of Student-Athletes, also known as the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. With this committee, student-athletes are not only living out our mission through various service efforts, but they also have a voice within our department. In addition, I was chosen by our conference to attend the NAIA’s inaugural Governance and Leadership Academy. Through this academy, I received first-hand experience on NAIA governance and strategic initiatives, while also participating in leadership development activities along said many other minority and female athletic administrators. Being able to participate in this academy and share my experience with the conference and athletics staff has been truly rewarding and a great contributor to my success today.
"My tenure in college athletics as a student-athlete and, for many decades, as a head coach of women's volleyball, has given me experience and confidence to handle a variety of projects and problem solving."
Pat Kendrick Xavier (La.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Pat Kendrick became SWL at Xavier University of Louisiana in 2021. Since then she was given responsibilities with the fiscal side of the department. She also was named a sport supervisor for competitive cheer and softball.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? In January 2023, Pat Kendrick was promoted to interim executive director of athletics and recreation. She will manage the department until a successor is hired for the start of the fall 2023 semester.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
Pat Kendrick: "My tenure in college athletics as a student-athlete and, for many decades, as a head coach of women's volleyball, has given me experience and confidence to handle a variety of projects and problem solving. This experience has been helpful during my first three weeks as the interim leader of our department."
"I am able to connect and establish relationships with the student athletes."
Fachaitte Kinslow Langston (Okla.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Not sure. Still working on that.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Assistant Athletic Director/Compliance
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I am able to connect and establish relationships with the student-athletes.
"Being a female point of contact to our athletes to feel safe to contact for any situation or circumstance that they might feel unsure of who to reach out to."
Eryn Leja-Martin University of Saint Katherine (Calif.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Still continuing to formalize a list of roles and responsibilities. Excited to provide added services to our student-athletes!
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Currently I am our head women's volleyball coach and Interim Director of Athletics.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
Being a female point of contact for our athletes to feel safe to contact for any situation or circumstance that they might feel unsure of who to reach out to. An added source of privacy and guidance is something I am excited to provide to our student-athletes. I am passionate about empowering young, female athletes and I am excited to serve more women than just my own team at our institution.
"Meeting with Women's teams to let them know of my resource."
Erin Lundy Graceland (Iowa)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Oversight of Financial Aide packages; meeting with Women's teams to let them know of my resource; Committee member of the Campus Crisis Management Team; Director of Sports Medicine.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Two: SWL and Head Athletic Trainer.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
"Sounding board for coaches and student-athletes allows me to be the voice for each of them."
Stacy Middleton Bethel (Kan.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Involved with the President and our Strategic Priorities Committee Involved with our SALT group (Student Athlete Leadership Team)
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Athletics Operations Administrator Assistant Softball Coach Champions of Character Liaison SWL
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department? I am able to be a sounding board for all coaches and student-athletes about any issues or situations that come up. Being involved in all the coaches meetings and the SALT meetings lets me hear from the coaches and student-athlete leaders from each sport and allows me to be the voice for each of them. Together we have embraced the historical Title IX 50-year anniversary and have recognized many influential women that have played an integral role in the development of our women's athletic programs.
"I am a female leader that [female student-athletes] can see in a respected position of responsibility, as well as a female they can confide in or ask for advice."
Hannah Miller Indiana Wesleyan
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? New responsibilities include oversight of our campus ASA and creation and implementation of initiatives and programming specifically for female student-athletes and staff (female student-athlete retreat, regular gatherings of staff, etc.). Generally, part of the role is to be present with and available to our female student-athletes and staff (hanging out at practices, travel with teams, host teams for dinner, etc.). Many of the other duties generally associated with the SWL position have already been part of my other role.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? In addition to SWL I serve as Assoc. AD of Internal Operations (primary responsibilities: eligibility and compliance, supervision of 5 teams, liaison to other areas of campus, student-athlete initiatives)
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
One of the ways I make a difference as SWL is simply by being a visible female leader. Not all female student-athletes have a female on their coaching staff, let alone a female head coach. I am a female leader that they can see in a respected position of responsibility, as well as a female they can confide in or ask for advice. More tangibly, I create intentional opportunities that contribute to the personal and professional development of our female student-athletes and staff.
"I am tasked with assisting their mission of being a voice for the athletics department, promoting school spirit and engaging the campus community, while promoting a positive student-athlete image."
Genia Montford South Carolina - Beaufort
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Member of the Athletics Senior Leadership Team who is responsible for budget management, scholarship compliance, long range planning for the department, and serving as the Advisor to the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Associate Director of Athletics
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
In my role as SWL, I serve as a member of the Athletics Senior Leadership team responsible for budgeting, scholarship compliance, and long-range planning. Additionally, I serve as Advisor for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) where I am tasked with assisting their mission of being a voice for the athletics department, promoting school spirit and engaging the campus community, while promoting a positive student-athlete image. While in the SUN Conference, I had the privilege of working on several Conference Committees such as Chair of the Champions of Character committee, the Advisor of the Conference Association of Student-Athletes (ASA), as a member of the COVID Task Force, as a member of the Conference Branding Committee, and as AD Liaison to Track & Field.
"Bridge the gap between athletics and the business office."
Keri Nester Brewton-Parker (Ga.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I participate in weekly meetings with our Associate Athletic Director and VP of Athletics. These meetings are where we discuss issues and try to solve them. I’m also a part of our hiring committee in athletics. My primary role has also been to bridge the gap between athletics and the business office (student accounts and accounts payable).
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? THREE- I’m the Human Resources and Risk Management Administrator, Head Cheerleading Coach, and SWL.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
In this role, I have become more involved in the athletic department than I was as just a coach. This opportunity has allowed me to bring areas up where we may have a disconnect in athletics and also find ways to solve those problems. This position has allowed me to bridge the gap between the athletic department and our fiscal services department. Athletics and Fiscal Services work very closely together regarding student accounts, purchase orders, and vendors. This role has allowed me to be the "middle man" between the two departments for communication and process improvement. We, as an athletic department, have made changes to our processes to make things easier and more efficient. I'm so proud of our coaches that have embraced the changes implemented!
"Building a relationship with the student-athletes and the departments across campus."
Cindy Potter Columbia College (Mo.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Nothing new other than the title.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Senior Deputy Director of Athletics covering the day-to-day operations, handling all the compliance for the department, overseeing the office of athletic communications, handling all the athletic aid and financial aid for the department as well as the academic liaison for the department.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I would say just by building a relationship with the student-athletes and the departments across campus. I would also add that just the number of years I have worked at CC and been in the AMC executive committee meetings as well as serving on several NAIA committees has led me to be the go-to person in the department.
"We are able to offer our coaches and students more availability, to focus on some bigger picture ideas and opportunities to benefit our student-athletes, coaches and campus community."
Aleesha Rabedeaux William Penn (Iowa)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I currently oversee 9 of our intercollegiate athletic sports (M/W Cross Country, M/W Soccer, M/W Bowling, M/W Wrestling, Women's Lacrosse). I oversee all of our compliance and eligibility, along with our athletic budgets. I oversee all of our department volunteer and community service efforts. I oversee all internal operations within the athletic department, this includes student-athlete development, our institutional attendance policy, business operations and all athletic staff onboarding. I am also the liaison to other departments on campus.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Associate Athletic Director, Director of Compliance and SWL
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I am able to make a difference in many different ways on campus. Since I am full-time in administration, we are able to offer our coaches and students more availability whether it's myself or our Athletic Director. I have been able to streamline many different processes within our department which has allowed us to be more intentional in our relationships with other campus departments, which has greatly benefited our entire university. Since beginning in this role, I have been able to take some workload off of our Athletic Director allowing him to focus on some bigger-picture ideas and opportunities to benefit our student-athletes, coaches and campus community.
"I mentor younger and/or new volleyball coaches in the conference to assist them in the process and struggles that a season can bring."
Tori Renda Faulkner (Ala.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Champions of Character® liaison - keeping the staff up to date on new and important info. Helping keep track of services projects and submitting the university's yearly scorecard. Athletic Facility Scheduling - developing and arranging teams for weekly use in the athletic weight room. Opening Round game day operations for baseball. Mental health liaison.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? I have 2 roles: Head Volleyball Coach and SWL.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I believe that my impact on campus is easily seen in the operations and scheduling needs of our teams. Helping navigate scheduling times of shared facilities to make things run smoothly. As an SWL in our conference I feel that I mentor younger and/or new volleyball coaches in the conference to assist them in the process and struggles that a season can bring. At the NAIA level I connect on the virtual luncheons to help network and open lines of communications to other SWL to create a support system to other women who can assist obstacles within our role.
"I am looking forward to working with our female student-athletes to help them grow in their leadership skills and to provide opportunities for them to make a difference on our campus and in the community."
Tracy Rice Blue Mountain Christian (Miss.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I am available to support our female student-athletes in any way needed. We are planning to start a leadership team for female student-athletes on campus.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Head Women's Basketball Coach and SWL.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department? I am looking forward to working with our female student-athletes to help them grow in their leadership skills and to provide opportunities for them to make a difference on our campus and in the community.
"Amongst my peers, they see another woman operating at one of the highest administrative levels in the department, and a woman of color at that."
Alaina Smith Walker Life (Ga.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? I have taken on additional responsibilities with team management and operational assistance, as well as a duty that means the absolute most to me: overseeing staff satisfaction and contributing to personal and professional development opportunities.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? I am also the Assistant Athletic Director for Internal Operations. Roles under this title include overseeing eligibility and compliance for the department, as well as managing faculty/athletics relationships around campus and providing opportunities for student engagement through our More Than An Athlete program. I am also an executive member of our campus Staff Council, as well as the Gender & Sexual Diversity Council and Student Conduct Review Board.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
As the SWL on campus, I offer first and foremost, representation. Amongst my peers, they see another woman operating at one of the highest administrative levels in the department, and a woman of color at that. I am able to incorporate my personal core values of empathy, prudence, and equity into my daily work, whether it is creating team-building opportunities with my peers, or navigating difficult situations with coaches and other staff as a person they know that they can trust. At the conference level, I am able to get involved as a member of the Women's Leadership Committee and the Eligibility Committee, as well as serve as the liaison for Competitive Cheer & Dance. In the NAIA, I continue my committee involvement as a member of the Eligibility Center Advisory Committee, and enjoy representing the NAIA at various conventions and engagements around the country.
"My door is always open to visit with our athletes and get to know them outside their sport. I want our female athletes to know they have a voice and each one of them mean so much to our department."
Suzanne Unruh Friends (Kan.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Attend weekly Athletic department Administration meetings. SALT liaison for our Athletic Department. We have monthly meetings with 12-15 athletes attending, bringing in speakers, campus news and updates, help organize halftime activity’s for home events, athletic department end of the year event. On the Presidents Leadership Council.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Head Softball Coach and SWL
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I love being a part of Friends University athletic department. We currently have 2 female head coaches on staff, so I like to think I am a female leader for all of our female athletes on campus! My door is always open to visit with our athletes and get to know them outside their sport. I want our female athletes to know they have a voice and each one of them mean so much to our department. I want them to feel appreciated and know they are important and can be successful!
"Creating meaningful and impactful undergraduate experience for student-athletes."
Karen Lee Yoder Cal Maritime (Calif.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? Monitors and implements gender and minority plans that meet the requirements of Title IX and reflect the values of the University - Founding member of the Cal Pac Conference’s Women Inspire Network, a network of women connecting together to build community and hone leadership skills within the California Pacific Conference - Sport supervisor for six programs - Serves as the lead on major athletic projects - Point-of-contact for cadet-athletes to share concerns - Point person for major departmental and university initiatives - Facilitates the attainment of personal development and academic goals by cadet-athletes - Provides strategic oversight for athletic department administrative support units - Serve on committees at the college, conference, and national levels - Coordinates and approves team schedules for practice and competition.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? Director of Athletics and Physical Education is another role held by Karen Lee Yoder.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I am humbled, and grateful, to hold a professional position that plays a direct role in creating a meaningful, and impactful undergraduate experience for Cal Maritime's cadet-athletes.
"Being able to have a role on the university's strategic planning steering committee and being included on a Board of Trustee taskforce have really widened my understanding of the university all while allowing me to speak boldly for our department at the level of leadership where big picture, long-term decisions are made."
Natalie Young Taylor University (Ind.)
In your new role as SWL, what responsibilities have you taken on? After my first year in the role of Assistant Athletics Director at Taylor University, I was blessed to be promoted to the Associate Athletics Director and Senior Women's Administrator. While there was no major adjustment to my job description was made, in the new role I have been able to help lead some aspects of major facility renovation projects and reimagine/reorganize some of the day-to-day operational aspects of the department. In addition, outside of our department, the new job classification has earned me a seat at the table for campus-wide leadership and planning committees. I'm thankful to have had the opportunity to work with and interface with many senior leadership-level administrators as well as members of the Taylor University Board of Trustees in many capacities over the last two years.
How many roles do you now have, including SWL? My current job is Associate Director of Intercollegiate Athletics & Senior Women's Administrator.
Where do you feel you are able to make a difference in your athletics department?
I think to date, being able to have a role on the university's strategic planning steering committee and being included on a Board of Trustee taskforce have really widened my understanding of the university all while allowing me to speak boldly for our department at the level of leadership where big picture, long-term decisions are made. It was an honor to be the voice for our student-athletes in those spaces and hopefully groundwork was laid that will allow Taylor University Athletics to continue to move forward.
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