Leadership Academy for Women’s Sports - Center for Equity, Gender, & Leadership

The Leadership Academy for Women’s Sports was designed for individuals seeking to enter or advance in the business of women’s sports. Women’s Sports represents a growing financial opportunity, and contributes a positive impact to society.
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This program equipped participants with the skills, networks, and industry insights needed to excel in leadership roles across the women’s sports business. Participants sharpened leadership skills, built a personal brand, gained business fluency, and learned to harness the industry’s power to create positive social impact.

Learning outcomes from the program include:

Individual Leadership Skills

New Business Strategies

Industry Fluency

Peer Network

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Participant Testimonials

"I was beyond inspired by the entire program and the people in the room. I left feeling rejuvenated, inspired, motivated and with so much more skills and knowledge that I could apply to my future work."

"I would recommend this program without hesitation. The past three days have been nothing short of transformative. The Leadership Academy is a rare experience that balances intellectual challenge with deep personal connection."

"My network has grown both in breadth and depth. When I picture myself looking back on my company's growth a year from now, the connections made at the Leadership Academy will be the vital ingredient for success."

"I'm walking away with more than just a toolkit; I have the renewed vision and momentum necessary to drive a positive, lasting impact on the future of women's sports."

"The caliber of leadership in the cohort is unmatched — the networking feels like being part of an astronaut crew tasked with sending women's sports into the stratosphere."

"I am returning home empowered, believing in myself and my place in the room, with new skills to help navigate conflict, fine tune my personal brand and grow myself in my current role and look to make my next moves."

Former Participants

Jennifer Bower

Chief Revenue Officer, San Diego FC

Jessica Carter

Executive Director, HER Sports

Keisha May Crum

Manager, Business Operations, Golden State Valkyries

Alysia Montaño

Founder & President, For All Mothers+

Liz Chance

Director of Development, Bay Area Host Committee

Kristen Rodgers

Director, Brand & Sports, Plug and Play Ventures

Toccara Ross

Coach, Upshot League

Cam Van

Founder, Couro

Advisory Committee

Brandi Chastain

Retired soccer player & Co-founder, Bay FC

Charmin Smith

Head Coach, Cal Women’s Basketball

Danette Leighton

CEO, Women’s Sports Foundation

Fayne Cohen

President, Bay Area Women in Sports & Events

Karina Herold

Chief Operating Officer, Bay Area Host Committee

Kelly deMarrais

Head of Women’s Sports Investing, Earlystone

Jennifer Vescio

Principal & Operating Partner, Awestruck Ventures

Sean Campbell

Head of Community-Engaged Investing, Earlystone

Taj McWilliams-Franklin

VP of Basketball Operations, The Upshot League

Sponsorship

The Leadership Academy for Women’s Sports is more than a program, it’s a launchpad. We believe that financial barriers should never stand in the way of a woman’s potential to lead. Through the power of our partners, we strive to provide 100% sponsored tuition for every participant.

By becoming a donor, you aren’t just funding a seat; you’re investing in the next generation of industry changemakers. Join us in leveling the playing field. Contact [email protected] to learn how you can support our scholars or sponsor a future leader today.

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