AWARD WINNERS

SANDY BARBOUR NIKE DI FBS ATHLETIC DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR

DR. LISA CAMPOS

“It's truly gratifying that I get to lead and serve an incredible group of student-athletes, coaches and staff at UTSA each and every day. I’m extremely grateful for the support of our president, Dr. Taylor Eighmy, and our university leadership. There is so much positive momentum for our university and athletics department, and this honor is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of everyone who touches and is a part of UTSA Athletics.”

Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, UTSA Athletics

Introduced as UTSA’s Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics and Athletics Director on Nov. 17, 2017, Dr. Lisa Campos has made an immediate and positive impact on the athletics department, university and community during her time in San Antonio. A 2025-26 National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) Athletics Director of the Year honoree and a finalist for the 2022 Sports Business Journal’s Athletic Director of the Year, she has elevated UTSA Athletics to new heights during her tenure.

NELL JACKSON NIKE EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR

SAM RAPOPORT

Founder, NFL Women's Forum, NFL

“I am humbled to receive this award and am indebted to Women Leaders in Sports for its contribution to this important effort. The most rewarding part of my work has always been watching talented women coaches and scouts earn opportunities they’ve long deserved. Their success is the real achievement, and I’m honored to stand alongside them."

Sam Rapoport is a globally recognized, 10-time award-winning sports executive and one of the most influential voices in professional football today. As a pioneering force behind the NFL’s gender equity movement, she has redefined what’s possible in a legacy sport—transforming the league’s culture and opening doors for women across the globe. With over 20 years at the intersection of football and innovation, Sam has become a household name in the industry.

NIKE EXECUTIVES OF THE YEAR

Director of Athletics, Grand Valley State University

KERI M. BECKER

Keri Becker has spent her entire career in intercollegiate athletics spanning almost 30 years. She is currently in her tenth year as the Director of Athletics at Grand Valley State. Becker’s career has always been on a college campus. She began her journey in 1990 as a softball student-athlete at Saginaw Valley State University, moved into the head softball coaching position in 1996 at yet another rival school, Ferris State University, where she stayed for 15 years. In 2011, GVSU brought her on board as the Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator. 

“Receiving these types of awards is often a reflection of what happened yesterday, yet it inspires me to do more, do better, and keep grinding to give our team a chance at achieving the highest levels of success tomorrow.” #ForTheValley

KIM DAMRON

President, Sports Properties, Learfield

“I’m deeply passionate about lifting women up and helping create more opportunities for them to lead, grow, and serve as role models across our industry. I’m continually inspired by the remarkable women I’ve met through Women Leaders, whose leadership and support push all of us to be better.”

Kim Damron is President of Learfield’s Sports Properties Division, which fosters integration across multiple business units to drive innovation and data-based strategies to create new revenue solutions and greater fan engagement for its partner universities. The division includes Learfield’s industry-leading multimedia rights business, encompassing both national and local sales, as well as other key athletic services, including the company’s Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) services, Amplify ticket sales, Amplify seat sales, broadcast operations, and naming rights. Kim leads a large operation within Learfield, overseeing more than $1 billion in revenue, 1,200 employees, and 140 schools, reflecting the significant scale and complexity of her responsibilities.


CRYSTAL LANNING

Director of Athletics, University of Wisconsin-River Falls

“The experiences I have had with Women Leaders have been transformational in shaping my path and empowering me to pursue my career goals with clarity and confidence. This recognition is especially meaningful because I know I would not be here without the unwavering support of my family and colleagues.

Crystal Lanning was named the director of athletics on April 1, 2018 after serving as the interim athletic director since 2016. Lanning returned to UW-River Falls after serving as the assistant commissioner for membership services at the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NCAA Division II) during the 2015-16 year. As an assistant commissioner, she was responsible for assisting with the internal operations of the conference office and serving as a liaison from the conference office in support of several committees and administrative groups including the senior woman administrators and faculty athletic representatives.

SARAH HIRSHLAND

Chief Executive Officer, United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee

“This award represents the power of strong teams, meaningful relationships, and a shared commitment to advancing our industry. I am grateful for the colleagues, mentors, and leaders who have shaped my journey, and I am energized by the opportunity to continue making a positive impact in sports and beyond."

Sarah Hirshland serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee. Her strategic vision and unwavering commitment to athlete welfare have redefined the organization, elevating it to new heights of excellence and inclusivity. Under her leadership, the USOPC has undergone a significant transformation, fostering a culture of accountability, transparency and acceptance. Acknowledging the need for change, she has reshaped the organization’s approach to athlete support, governance, and financial sustainability.

“This recognition is a reminder that when God calls us to serve with humility, integrity, and courage, He is faithful to open doors we could never imagine. I hope my journey continues to encourage other women to lead boldly, serve selflessly, and walk in their purpose daily.”

Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, Point University

JAUNELLE WHITE

Jaunelle White is entering her sixth academic year at Point as Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics and the Chief Student Development Officer. White is the university's third athletic director and first female director. Under White’s watch in 2025-2026, the Skyhawks sent six programs to their conference tournament, including the men’s golf team finishing second before receiving a bid to the NAIA Men’s Golf National Championship. Jaunelle was named the Third Vice President of the NAIA Athletic Directors Association (ADA) on April 17.

PHYLLIS LaVERNE SWEAT

Coach, Hampton University and Norfolk State University

A native of Norfolk, Virginia—graduated from Booker T. Washington High School before attending Virginia State College (now VSU), where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Health and Physical Education with honors in 1959. That same year, she married her childhood sweetheart, James E. Sweat, Sr., who later retired as a LTC in the U.S. Army and from a second career coaching women’s basketball. During his military career, Phyllis traveled extensively throughout the US and Europe, raising three children: Sheryl, James Jr., and Kevin. 

“I am deeply grateful, energized to be recognized among such extraordinary leaders who continue to elevate and shape the future of sports. I’m proud to stand alongside so many trailblazers who continue to move women sports industry forward.”

Dr. MARILYN McNEIL

Vice President and Director of Athletics, Monmouth University

“Working in sport was never a job- it was an enthusiastic passion for 53 wonderful years. To be honored for enjoying this journey is awesome. Thank you to the pushers, the pullers, the optimists, even the pessimists.”

Dr. Marilyn McNeil retired from her 53-year career in collegiate athletics on June 30, 2021. During that time McNeil was a student-athlete, coached at the collegiate level, served as an administrator, and spent 28 years as Monmouth University’s director of athletics. McNeil elevated Monmouth to one of the premier mid-major Division I programs in the country. During her tenure, the Hawks won 119 regular season conference championships while making 38 team appearances in various NCAA Tournaments.

DEBBY DeANGELIS

Director of Athletics, Cal State East Bay

“It has been a joy to work in a field where I can see daily efforts to succeed and excel. Seeing what sport brings to individual development and the leadership of both students and those that have worked with me has been very rewarding.”

Debby De Angelis  built a distinguished career spanning more than four decades in collegiate athletics, rowing leadership, and community service. Known for her steady leadership, deep commitment to student athletes, and influential contributions to the sport of rowing, she has shaped programs, policies, and people at the campus, national, and international levels. 

DR. INGRID WICKER McCREE

Director of Athletics, North Carolina Central University

“I have always believed that when women lead in sports, we create opportunities, inspire change, and leave a lasting legacy. I am deeply grateful for this recognition and remain committed to empowering the next generation of women leaders in athletics."

Dr. Ingrid Wicker McCree is a transformational leader and innovative strategist whose influence extends across higher education, sports tourism, amateur, and professional sports.  With more than 30 years of leadership experience, Dr. Wicker McCree has built a distinguished career as a student-athlete, coach, educator, athletics administrator, and executive leader. In 2008, she made history as the first woman to hold the permanent position of Director of Athletics at North Carolina Central University (NCCU). During her 14-year tenure, she successfully guided NCCU’s transition from NCAA Division II to NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), leading the development and implementation of the university’s first comprehensive strategic plan for reclassification.

ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR

Rock Entertainment Group & the Cleveland Cavaliers

Receiving the Women Leaders in Sports BSN Organization of the Year award is a profound honor and a reflection of the many team members who continue to shape Rock Entertainment Group. When women are given the tools, opportunities and trust to lead, the enterprise rises with them. At Rock Entertainment Group, investing in women is more than a program. It's a promise.”

Founded in 2021 as part of Dan Gilbert's ROCK family of companies, Rock Entertainment Group (REG) has quickly emerged as one of the most innovative organizations in the sports and entertainment industry. Through a portfolio that includes the Cleveland Cavaliers, Cleveland Monsters, Cleveland Charge, Rocket Arena, and a growing collection of sports, entertainment, media, and venue properties, REG is redefining what it means to create unforgettable fan experiences while driving meaningful community impact.

INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR

MEGAN ROSE

Managing Director, Head of Business Development & Operations, USTA Coaching

Megan Rose currently serves as the Managing Director, Head of Business Development and Operations for USTA Coaching, where she leads coach recruitment and retention strategies, oversees operational excellence, and drives industry engagement through strategic outreach and partnerships. With a focus on enhancing the coaching landscape, Megan is dedicated to developing comprehensive programs and services that empower coaches and foster a diverse tennis community.

“Innovation is never the work of one person. It happens when talented, passionate people are willing to challenge what has always been done and imagine what could be possible. I hope this award inspires other women to trust their ideas, use their voices, and keep pushing our industry forward.”

RESILIENCE AWARD

DR. JOLISA WILLIAMS

Interim Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation, Bowie State University Athletics

“I accept this recognition in honor of Dr. Clyde Doughty, Jr., whose leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to Bowie State University continue to inspire our work each and every day. His passing left a tremendous void, and he is deeply missed. I am especially grateful for the confidence he placed in me, as I would not be in this position without his guidance, support, and belief in my abilities.”

Dr. Jolisa Williams enters her fourth season with the Bulldog family as the Associate Athletic Director for External Operations and Strategic Engagement after serving as the department's Assistant Athletic Director for Media Relations for three years. Dr. Williams serves as the number two within the department and manages all strategic Athletic Department projects and initiatives; and assists in coordinating Athletic Department functions and events including donor events, game-day marketing and promotions, university team functions, and CIAA Conference and NCAA activities and tournaments.

WOMAN TO WATCH

“Building this role has truly affirmed that operational excellence is the foundation that allows everyone around you to do their best work. I hope this award is a signal to women building behind the scenes that the work matters, that it is seen, and that there is a place for us shaping the future of this industry.

JESSICA COELHO ‍

Chief of Staff, Charlotte Football Club

Jessica Coelho is Chief of Staff, Sporting Strategy & Soccer Operations at Charlotte FC, a role that was the first of its kind at the club, and she has pioneered the role by enabling operational excellence throughout the organization.  In the two years since, other MLS and USL clubs have adopted the role, and Jessica is now consulting with international clubs exploring how to build similar functions of their own. 

RISING STAR

SAM BERMAN

Events and Hospitality Coordinator, College Football Playoff

“This recognition represents so much more than an individual achievement. It reflects the mentors and coaches who have invested in me, the teammates who have supported and empowered me, and the opportunities I've been given to grow in an industry I love. I am incredibly grateful to Women Leaders in Sports and the College Football Playoff for believing in me, investing in my development, and providing opportunities to build a meaningful career in sports.”

Sam Berman joined the College Football Playoff staff in June 2024 as its Events and Hospitality Coordinator. Berman came to the CFP staff from the University of Oregon, where she earned a bachelor’s degree and an MBA in sports business. During her time at Oregon, Berman served as the technical coordinator for the Ducks' women’s volleyball program, and also held the role of assistant director for Women In Flight, which aims to raise awareness and financial support to achieve and maintain excellence across all Oregon women's athletic programs.