Since Women’s History Month was observed in March and this publication celebrates the achievements of professional women, I jumped at the opportunity to share a few lessons I’ve learned over my 34 years working in athletics.
I have the privilege of working alongside committed individuals who go the extra mile, get up early, and work weekends and evenings — it’s the culture at any level of the sports industry. It’s a tough business and primarily led by men, as women represent around 15% of 363 NCAA Division I athletic director positions. I’m reluctant to highlight this statistic since we’d all rather be respected for our competencies free of gender reference. However, I recognize that the perspectives I share with other women could make their road to career and personal satisfaction a less frustrating journey.
Elevate: Encourage women to pursue leadership positions. The Chancellor who promoted me years ago, encouraged me to leave my comfort zone. I had countless reasons to stay right where I was in my career, but the third time she persisted I couldn’t say no. Once I learned the new leadership role on an interim basis, I had the confidence and experience to apply for the permanent job. She positioned me for success. I thought of her last year when a colleague was reluctant to pursue her boss’s job once vacant. She told me she wasn’t ready. I remember saying to her, “Ok, just keep doing your job, train your next boss, and let that person get paid almost twice as much as you.” Happy ending alert — she’s crushing it in her new role.
Teamwork: I am not a fan of the “you can have it all” message. The truth is, you can have it all if you have a swell of support. There is zero chance I could successfully do my job without family and a tribe of friends doing daycare pick-ups and sleepovers with my daughter when my work demanded travel. I can’t imagine how I could be focused at work without a partner who beats me to household responsibilities. So indeed, we can have it all, but it takes a village.
Move: Prioritizing your health is not selfish. Schedule it. Jog, walk, spin, lift, hike; and do it often. One of my mentors turned 80-years-old recently. She always made fitness part of her routine. I do some of my best strategizing while in tennis shoes with an elevated heart rate.
Mentor: Especially in male dominated industries, sharing our experiences allows us to connect, learn and lead. My career was made possible by women and men who believed in me and encouraged me. I have a remarkable collection of mentors, colleagues and friends I can call day or night. A good mentor serves as a sounding board, cheers for you and challenges you, too. Bring someone with you!
