The Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Nike, is bestowed annually to administrators and professionals who have dedicated their careers to advancing women in sport. Because of their tireless efforts, girls and women participating in sport can enjoy competitive athletics and/or athletic career opportunities. This award is given to individuals who have rendered meritorious service ans have retired from or no longer directly involved in full-time employment in the profession.

Women Leaders Lifetime Achievers are the women who came before us and paved the way, creating the opportunities all of us are now enjoying. They have fought the battles and inspired us with their courage and commitment. We continue to celebrate, honor and gain inspiration from these remarkable women.

2025
Cheryl Levick
Jane Miller

2024
Diane Milutinovich
Barbara Schroeder
Dr. Sue Willey

2023
Jean Cerra
Jeanne Lenti Ponsetto
Cathie Schweitzer
Dee Todd

2022
Alfreeda Goff 
Dru Hancock
Patricia Henry
Laurie Priest

2021
Bridget Belgiovine 
Julie Soriero 
Dr. Connee Zotos 

2020
Dr. Ruth Alexander 
Mildred "Millie" Barrett West

2019
Women Leaders Past Presidents 

2018
Peg Bradley-Doppes
Dr. Beth Miller
Dr. G. Ann Uhlir

2017 
Carolyn Schlie Femovich 
Marcy Weston

2016
Joan Cronan 
Dr. M. Dianne Murphy

2015
Dr. Peggy Green 
Jo Ann "Josie" Harper 

2014
Sallie Beard
Joan Boand 
Kaye Hart  

2013
Linda Moulton 
Pam Gill-Fisher 
Sharon Taylor 

2012
Betty F. Jaynes 
Margie McDonald
Donna Olson 

2011
Nan Nichols 
Louise O'Neal 
Judy Sweet 
Chris Voelz 

2010
Dr. Mildred Barnes
Jody Conradt
Marcia Saneholtz
Andi Seger

2009
Women Leaders Past Presidents 

2008
Dr. Leanne Grotke-Andreas
J. Elaine Hieber  
Dr. Tina Sloan Green 
Dr. Donnis Thompson 

2007
Joanna Davenport 
Dr. Carla Lowry 
Barbara Jo Palmer 
Dr. Phebe Scott 
Sandra Shuler 

2006
Jane Betts 
Jeannine McHaney 
Mary Jean Mulvaney 
Joan Parker
Dr. Katherine Saunders-Nordeen 

2005
Dr. Linda Jean Carpenter 
Joanne “Jo” Kuhn 
Jeanette A. Lee
Elma Neal Roane 
Dr. Marya Welch 

2004
Founders 

2003
Jessie Brown
Dr. Elaine Dreidame 
Elizabeth Murphey 
Ellen Perry 
Dr. Janice Shelton 
Jenepher P. Shillingford 

2002
Dr. Peggy Burke 
Merrily Dean Baker 
Dr. Donna Lopiano 
Dr. Laurie Mabry 
Dr. Carole L. Mushier
Dr. Carole Oglesby 

2001
Dr. Dorothy J. Alston 
Dr. Christine H.B. Grant 
Dr. Joan S. Hult 
Dr. Pearl Kowalski 
Eleanor R. Lemaire 
Sadie Evelyn Magee 

2000
Phyllis L. Howlett 
Dr. Virginia (Ginny) Hunt
Dr. Karol Kahrs 
Kitty Rogers Baird
Dr. Ruth Vivian Acosta 
Cornieth York “C.Y.” Russell

1999
Della Durant 
Catherine “Kit” Green 
Dr. Nell Jackson 
Fran Koeing 
Dr. Luella Lilly 
Dr. Mary Pavlich Roby 
Dr. Maria Sexton 
Dr. Mary Jo Wynn 

1998
Phyllis J. Bailey 
Dr. Carol E. Gordon 
Dr. Judith R. Holland 
Dr. Leotus “Lee” Morrison 
Dr. Martha Mullins 
Dr. Mary A. Rice 
Jeanne Rowland 
Dr. Charlotte West 

The Nike Executive of the Year Awards are presented to senior-level executive women in the sports industry who are making significant contributions.

The Nike Executive of the Year Awards are presented to Women Leaders in Sports members for significant contributions made as a senior-level executive across each division and in the broader sport industry. The Executive of the Year Award in each division is presented in years which an individual is deserving of such recognition, typically annually. 

2025
Nell Jackson: Alberta G. Lee, Executive Vice President, Chief People Officer, Cleveland Cavaliers - Rock Entertainment Group

Kim Davis - Senior Executive Vice President, National Hockey League

Jacqie McWilliams Parker - Commissioner, Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association

Dr. Jacqueline Schuman, Vice Chancellor & Director of Athletics and Recreation, UMASS Boston

Sonja O. Stills - Commissioner, Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference

Julie Uhrman - CEO & Co-Founder, Angel City FC

2024
Sandy Barbour Division I FBS: Candice Storey Lee, Vice Chancellor for Athletics & University Affairs, Vanderbilt University
Division I FCS: Tiffani-Dawn Sykes, Vice President & Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Florida A&M University
Division I: Jill Bodensteiner, Vice President & Director of Athletics, St. Joseph's University
Division II: Rachel Burleson, Director of Athletics, Franklin Pierce University
Division III: Ayanna Tweedy, Athletic Director, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Jayme Pendergast, Director of Athletics, Life University
Conference/Organization: Andrea Savage, Executive Director, New England Small College Athletic Conference
NEW! Sport Business: Angie Long, Owner & Founder, Kansas City Current

2023
Division I FBS: Julie Cromer, Director of Athletics, Ohio University
Division I FCS: Lisa Archbald, Associate Commissioner for Compliance and Governance/SWA, Northeast Conference
Division I: Amanda Braun, Director of Athletics, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Division II: Jennifer Bell, Director of Athletics, Converse University 
Division III: Kristin Hughes, Director of Athletics, Smith College 
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Janet Eaton-Smith, Vice President of Athletics, Lourdes University
Conference/Organization: DeeDee Merritt, Director of Leadership Development, NCAA

2022
Division I FBS: Beth Goetz, Director of Athletics, Ball State University
Division I FCS: Dr. Nicki Moore, Vice President & Director of Athletics, Colgate University
Division I: Rachelle Paul, Director of Athletics, Saint Peter's University
Division II: Dr. Bren Stevens, Vice President and Director of Athletics, University of Charleston 
Division III: Dr. Angel Mason, Director of Athletics, Berry College 
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Tonia Walker, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, Bluefield University
Conference/Organization: Julie Roe Lach, Commissioner, Horizon League

2021
Division I FBS: Nina King, Vice President and Director of Athletics, Duke University 
Division I FCS: Dianthia Ford-Kee, Director of Athletics, Mississippi Valley State University 
Division I: Jaunelle Hamilton White, Director of Athletics, Point University 
Division II: Courtney Lovely Evans, Director of Athletics, Palm Beach Atlantic University 
Division III: Nan Carney-DeBord, Associate Vice President of Athletics and Recreation, Denison University 
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Natasha Wilson, Vice President for Student Life & Athletic Director, Central Methodist University 
Conference/Organization: Louise McCleary, Interim Vice President of Division III, NCAA

2020
Division I FBS: Jocelyn Gates, Senior Associate Athletics Director/Senior Woman Administrator, Boston College
Division I FCS: Sherryta D. Freeman, Director of Athletics, Lafayette College
Division I: Ursula Gurney, Deputy Director of Athletics/Senior Woman Administrator, University of Missouri - Kansas City
Division II: Pennie Parker, Director of Athletics, Rollins College
Division III: Meg Stevens, Director of Athletics, Averett University
Association/Organization: Judy MacLeod, Commissioner, Conference USA

2019
Division I FBS: Carla Williams, Director of Athletics, University of Virginia
Division I FCS: Sharon D. Brummell, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Business and Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Senior Woman Administrator, Georgetown University
Division I: Dr. Renae Myles Payne, Senior Associate Athletic Director, Chief Operating Officer and Senior Woman Administrator, Winthrop University
Division II: Karen Stromme, Senior Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator, University of Minnesota Duluth
Division III: Jan Hathorn, Michael F. Walsh Director of Athletics, Chair, Physical Education, Athletics and Recreation Dept., Washington and Lee University
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Brooke Henze, Athletic Director, Lewis-Clark State College
Association/Organization: Robin J. Harris, Executive Director, The Ivy League

2018
Division I FBS: Maggie McKinley, Executive Senior Associate Director of Athletics/Senior Woman Administrator, University of Cincinnati
Division I FCS: Jennifer Lynne Williams, Director of Athletics, Alabama State University
Division I: Dena Freeman-Patton, Deputy Athletics Director, California State University, Bakersfield
Division II: Carrie Michaels, Associate Director of Athletics/Senior Woman Administrator, Shippensburg University
Division III: Stevie Baker-Watson, Associate Vice President for Campus Wellness & Theodore Katula Director of Athletics and Recreational Sports, DePauw University
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Jill Jokerst-Harter, Director of Athletics, St. Louis College of Pharmacy
Association/Organization: Val Ackerman, Commissioner, Big East Conference

2017
Division I FBS: Nona Richardson, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Support Services/SWA, University of Utah
Division I FCS: Dr. M. Grace Calhoun, Director of Athletics and Recreation, University of Pennsylvania 
Division I: Tamica Smith Jones, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, University of California, Riverside 
Division II: Carmen Leeds, Senior Associate Athletics Director, Internal Operations/SWA, Emporia State University 
Division III: Deb Steward, Director of Athletics, William Smith College 
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Chesney Sallee, Director of Membership Services, NAIA National Office  
Association/Organization: Kris Pierce, Senior Associate Commissioner for Championships/SWA, Atlantic Coast Conference

2016
Division I FBS: Sarah Baumgartner, Deputy Director of Athletics, Rutgers University 
Division I FCS: Diane Metcalf, Director of Athletics Development, University of New Hampshire
Division I: Karina Herold, Senior Associate Athletic Director/SWA, Pepperdine University
Division II: Tonia Walker, Director of Athletics, Winston-Salem State University 
Division III: Nikki Fennern, Director of Athletics, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota 
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Krishna Dass, Director of Athletics, Hostos Community College 
Association/Organization: Julie Muller, Commissioner, North Atlantic Conference 

2015
Division I FBS: Vanessa Fuchs, Senior Associate AD/SWA, Florida State University
Division I FCS: Irma Garcia, Director of Athletics, St. Francis College
Division I: Janet Lucas, Executive Associate AD/SWA, University of California, Riverside
Division II: China Jude, Assistant Vice President/Athletic Director, Queens College
Division III: Natalie Winkelfoos, Delta Lodge Director of Athletics & Physical Education, Oberlin College
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes, Athletic Director, Dillard University
Association/Organization: Lori Thomas, Commissioner, Heart of America Athletic Conference 

2014
Division I FBS: Jane Miller, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Programs/SWA, University of Virginia
Division I FCS: Dr. Ingrid Wicker-McCree, Director of Athletics, North Carolina Central University
Division I: Pat Meiser, Director of Athletics/Special Assistant to the President, University of Hartford
Division II: Lindsay Reeves, Athletic Director, University of North Georgia
Division III: Kim Blum, Interim Director of Athletics, University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Kelly Perry, Assistant Athletic Director - Compliance, Oklahoma City University
Association/Organization: Bernadette McGlade, Commissioner, Atlantic 10 Conference

2013
Division I FBS: Janna Blais, Deputy Director of Athletics – Student Athlete Welfare, Northwestern University
Division I FCS: Shaney Fink, Senior Associate Athletics Director/SWA, University of San Diego
Division I: Karen Peters, Senior Associate Athletics Director/SWA, University of Portland
Division II: Sara Lillevand Judd, Director of Athletics, California State University, East Bay
Division III: Susan Bassett, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreational Sports, Ithaca College
NAIA/NJCAA: Dr. Angie Fincannon, Director of Athletics, Taylor University
Association/Organization: Lynn Holzman, Senior Associate Commissioner/SWA, West Coast Conference

2012
NCAA DI-FBS: Betsy Mosher, deputy director of athletics/senior woman administrator, California State University, Fresno
NCAA DI-FCS: Inge Radice, senior associate director of athletics, Princeton University
NCAA DI: Carla Wilson, senior associate athletic director for business and administration/senior woman administrator, University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC)
NCAA DII: Angela (Ann) Walker, associate director of athletics, compliance/senior woman administrator, Nova Southeastern University
NCAA DIII: Julie Soriero, director of athletics/head of the department of athletics, physical education and recreation (DAPER), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
NAIA/NJCAA: Meg Schebler, director of athletics, Ashford University 
Association/Organization: Terri Steeb-Gronau, director of NCAA Division II, NCAA

2011
NCAA DI-FBS: Susan Delaney-Scheetz, Associate Athletic Director/SWA, Penn State University
NCAA DI-FCS: Donna Woodruff, Senior Associate Athletic Director/SWA, Stony Brook University
NCAA DI: Carolyn O’Connell, Senior Associate Athletics Director/SWA, Loyola University, Chicago
NCAA DII: Wendy Taylor May, Senior Associate Director of Athletics for Internal Operations/SWA, University of California, San Diego
NCAA DIII: Themy Adachi, Director of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation, Mills College
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Teresa Yetmar, Director of Athletics, Baker University
Conference/Organization: Karen Morrison, Director of Gender Initiatives, NCAA

2010
NCAA DI-FBS: Petrina Long, Senior Associate Athletic Director/SWA, UCLA
NCAA DI-FCS: Vicky Chun, Senior Associate Athletic Director/SWA, Colgate University
NCAA DII: Lisa Sweany, Senior Associate Athletics Director/SWA, Grand Valley State University
NCAA DIII: Julie Davis, Director of Athletics, Fitness and Recreation, University of Maine at Farmington
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Susan Hlavacek, Director of Athletics, Notre Dame College
Conference/Organization: Janet Judge, President, Sports Law Associates, LLC

2009
NCAA Division I FBS:Noreen Morris, Senior Associate Athletic Director/SWA, Northwestern University
NCAA Division I FCS: Jacqueline Blackett, Associate Athletic Director of Enrichment Services, Columbia University
NCAA Division I: Kathy Klein, Senior Associate Athletic Director, University of North Florida
NCAA Division II: Deborah Chin, Director of Athletics, University of New Haven
NCAA Division III: Kim Chandler, Director of Athletics, Macalester College
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Norma Carr, Director of Athletics, Salt Lake Community College
Conference/Organization: Dr. Christine Hoyles, Associate Commissioner, Pacific 10 Conference

2008
NCAA Division I FBS: Barbara Burke, University of Wyoming
NCAA Division I FCS: Dr. M. Dianne Murphy, Columbia University
NCAA Division I: Athena Argyropoulos, American University
NCAA Division II: Lynn Griffin, University of Indianapolis
NCAA Division III: Dr. Kelly Hart, Springfield College
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Debby De Angelis, California State University East Bay
Conference/Organization: Beth DeBauche, NCAA

2007
NCAA Division I-A: Kate Hickey, Rutgers University
NCAA Division I-AA: Pat Henry, Harvard University
NCAA Division I-AAA: Janet Cone, University of North Carolina, Ashville
NCAA Division II: Lois Webb, Florida Southern College
NCAA Division III: Dr. Valerie Cushman, Randolph College
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Diane Schumacher, Howard Community College
Conference/Organization: Candice Poiss Murray, North Eastern Athletic Conference

2006
NCAA Division I-A: Anne “Sandy” Barbour, University of California-Berkeley
NCAA Division I-AA: Dr. Darlene Bailey, Western Athletic Conference
NCAA Division I-AAA: Mary McElroy, Georgia State University
NCAA Division II: Dianthia Ford-Kee, Shaw University
NCAA Division III: Dr. Glada Munt, Southwestern University
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Lynne Levesque, Brookhaven College
Conference/Organization: Debbie Corum, Southeastern Conference

2005
NCAA Division I-A: Joan Cronan, University of Tennessee
NCAA Division I-AA: Lauren Anderson, University of Rhode Island
NCAA Division I-AAA: Lynn Hickey, University of Texas at San Antonio
NCAA Division II: Dr. Suzanne “Sue” Willey, University of Indianapolis
NCAA Division III: Dr. Cathie Schweitzer, Springfield College
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Chris Haines, South Mountain Community College
Conference/Organization: Carolyn Campbell-McGovern,The Ivy Group

2004
NCAA Div IA: Chris Plonsky, University of Texas at Austin
NCAA Div IAA: Sondra Norrell-Thomas, Howard University
NCAA Div IAAA: Peggy Bradley-Doppes, University of North Carolina at Wilmington
NCAA Div II: Jane Meier, University of Northern Kentucky
NCAA Div III: Connee Zotos, Drew University
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Ann Wellham, Garrett College
Organization/Conference: Athena Yiamouyiannis, NAGWS

2003
NCAA Div IA: Cary Groth, Northern Illinois University
NCAA Div IAA: Nance Reed, Towson University
NCAA Div IAAA: Jean Lenti Ponsetto, DePaul University
NCAA Div II: Mary Gardner, Bloomsburg
NCAA Div III: Joy Solomen, Rowan University
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Susan Hlavacek, Notre Dame of Ohio
Organization/Conference: Bridget Belgiovine, NCAA

2002
NCAA Div IA: Andi Seger, Ball State University
NCAA Div IAA: Andi Myers, Indiana State University
NCAA Div IAAA: Roxanne Levenson, Pepperdine University
NCAA Div II: Lynn Dorn, North Dakota State University
NCAA Div III: Laurie Priest, Mount Holyoke College
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Karen Sykes, Dean College
Organization/Conference: Carolyn Schlie Femovich, Patriot League

2001
NCAA Div IA: J. Elaine Hieber, Iowa State University
NCAA Div IAA: Marilyn McNeil, Monmouth University
NCAA Div IAAA: M. Dianne Murphy, University of Denver
NCAA Div II: Pam Gill-Fisher, University of California-Davis
NCAA Div III: Suzanne Coffey, Bates College
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Norma Dycus, Sinclair Community College
Organization/Conference: Carol Iwaoka, Big Ten Conference

2000
NCAA Div IA: Cheryl Levick, Stanford University
NCAA Div IAA: JoAnn Harper, Dartmouth College
NCAA Div IAA: Diane T. Wendt, University of Denver
NCAA Div II: Gwendolyn Davis-Reeves, Fort Valley State University
NCAA Div III: Marilyn Moore, SUNY, Geneseo
NAIA/NJCAA/Community College: Lea Plarski, St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley
Organization/Conference: Patricia Wall, Southeastern Conference
1999
District 1: Rita Castagna, Assumption College
District 2: Connee Zotos, Drew University
District 3: Deborah Yow, University of Maryland
District 4: Barbara Hedges, University of Washington
District 5: Alfreeda Goff, Midwestern Collegiate Conference
District 6: Kathy Lindahl, Michigan State University
District 7: Janet Justus, NCAA
National Administrator of the Year: Janet Justus, NCAA

1998
District 1: Arlene E. Gorton, Brown University
District 2: Sharon E. Taylor, Lock Haven University
District 3: Donna Ledwin, College of New Rochelle
District 4:Karen Miller, Cal Poly Pomona
District 5: Jean Lenti Ponsetto, DePaul University
District 6: Barbara Schroeder, Regis University
District 7: Tricia Bork, NCAA
National Administrator of the Year: Sharon E. Taylor, Lock Haven University

1997
District 1: Deborah Chin, University of New Haven
District 2: Sue Regan, Seton Hall
District 3: Kitty Rogers Baird, Centre College
District 4: Marcia Saneholtz, Washington State University
District 5: Lynn Imergoot, Washington University (MO)
District 6: Phyllis Ocker, University of Michigan (retired)
District 7: Dr. Barbara Hibner, University of Nebraska
National Administrator of the Year: Marcia Saneholtz, Washington State University

1996

District 1: Linda S. Moulton, Clark University
District 2: Marilyn A. McNeil, Monmouth College
District 3: Mary Jo Warner, The George Washington University
District 4: Fern Gardner, University of Utah
District 5: Patty Viverito, Gateway Football Conference, Missouri Valley Conference
District 6: Margie H. McDonald, Western Athletic Conference
District 7: Jeannine McHaney, Texas Tech University (posthumously)
National Administrator of the Year: Patty Viverito, Gateway Football Conference, Missouri Valley Conference

1995

District 1: Jane Betts, NACWAA Executive Director
District 2: Majorie Trout, Millersville University
District 3: Joan Cronan, University of Tennessee
District 4: Lu Wallace, Brigham Young University
District 5: Linda Herman, Illinois State University
District 6: Georgene Brock, Minnesota State University, Mankato
District 7: Connie Claussen, University of Nebraska, Omaha
National Administrator of the Year: Jane Betts, NACWAA Executive Director

1994

District 1: Louise O’Neal, Wellesley College
District 2: Ellen Perry, Penn State University
District 3: Carol Fritz, Western Maryland College
District 4: Pam Gill-Fisher, University of California-Davis
District 5: Marcy Weston, Central Michigan University
District 6: Chris Voelz, University of Minnesota
District 7: Kit Green, University of Washington
National Administrator of the Year: Louise O’Neal, Wellesley College

1993

District 1: E. Louise Albrecht, Southern Connecticut State University
District 2: Jenepher Shillingford, Bryn Mawr College
District 3: Nora Lynn Finch, North Carolina State University
District 4: Virginia Hunt, Montana State University
District 5: R. Elaine Dreidame, University of Dayton
District 6: Christine H.B. Grant, University of Iowa
District 7: Mary Jo Wynn, Southwest Missouri State University
National Administrator of the Year: Christine H.B. Grant, University of Iowa

1992

District 1: Eleanor Lemaire, University of Rhode Island
District 2: Eve Atkinson, Lafayette College
District 3: Martha Mullins, Eastern Kentucky University
District 4: Judy Sweet, University of California, San Diego
District 5: Karol Kahrs, University of Illinois
District 6: Phyllis Bailey, Ohio State University
District 7: Donna Lopiano, University of Texas
National Administrator of the Year: Judy Sweet, University of California, San Diego

1991
District 1: Jeanne Rowlands, Northeastern University
District 2: N/A
District 3: Janice Shelton, Tennessee State University
District 4: Judith Sweet, University of California – San Diego
District 5: Charlotte West, Southern Illinois University
District 6: Judith Kruckman, WWIAC
District 7: Donna Lopiano, University of Texas, Austin
National Administrator of the Year: Charlotte West, Southern Illinois University 

The Sandy Barbour Nike Division I FBS Athletic Director of the Year award is presented to a Division I FBS Athletic Director making a significant impact, In recognition of Sandy’s legacy.  

The award was introduced in 2024, with Candice Storey Lee, Vanderbilt University, the inaugural recipient. This award is made possible through the generous gifts of Vicky Chun, Julie Cromer, Charmelle Green, Cary Groth, Teresa Gould, Lynn Holleran & Pam Borton, Candace Campbell Jackson, Katie Meier, Patti Phillips, and Lisa Stockton.

2025: Jen Cohen, Charles Griffin Cale Director of Athletics, University of Southern California

2024: Candice Storey Lee, Director of Athletics, Vanderbilt University

The Nell Jackson Nike Executive of the Year Award is presented to a Women Leaders in Sports member and bestowed annually to a senior-level executive who exemplifies the personal qualities and professional accomplishments of Dr. Nell Jackson as listed below. Please note all nominations are welcome, but emphasis will be placed on the achievement of minority women.  

2025: Alberta G, Lee, Executive Vice President, Chief People & Culture Officer, Cleveland Cavaliers - Rock Entertainment Group

2024: Nevin Caple, Return on Inclusion

2023: Cricket Lane, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

2022: Tiffany Tucker, University of North Carolina - Wilmington 

2021: KiKi Baker Barnes, PhD, Dillard University/Gulf Coast Athletic Conference 

2020: Tiffany Walker Daniels, Southeastern Conference

2019: Dr. China L. Jude, University of Wyoming 

2018: Dr. Amy Wilson, NCAA

2017: Jill Redmond, Atlantic 10 Conference  

2016: Shirelle Jackson, University of Miami

2015: Julie Cromer Peoples, University of Arkansas

2014: Ann-Marie Guglieri, Colgate University 

2013: Delise O’Meally, NCAA

2012: Sharon Sanford, University at Buffalo 

2011: Carol Howe-Veenstra, College of Saint Benedict

2010: Marilyn Moniz-Kaho’ohanohano, University of Hawaii at Manoa

2009: Grace Calhoun, Indiana University

2008: Tonia Walker, Winston Salem State University

2007: Germaine McAuley, Spelman College

2006: Jacqueline “Jacqie” McWilliams, NCAA

2005: Carolayne Henry, Mountain West Conference

2004: Cindi Nagai, University of Denver

2003: Athena Yiamouyiannis, NAGWS

2002: Monique “Toni” Morgan, CIAA

2001: Amy B. Huchthausen, ACC

2000: Nona E. Richardson, Ball State University

The BSN SPORTS Organization of the Year award recognizes the overall impact an organization has had on women working in sports. We’ll look at how they’re supporting women through programming, mentorship, and fostering leadership opportunities. For example – sending Women on their staff to National Convention or having a large group membership!

2025: LSU Tiger Athletic Foundation

The BSN SPORTS Innovator of the Year Award recognizes someone who is not just achieving success, but also creating new pathways and redefining what’s possible in the industry. The recipient would be someone who has pushed boundaries in the past year, challenged traditional norms, and introduced fresh ideas that have reshaped the landscape of sports. 

2025: Jessica Huntley, Senior Business Development Executive, Teamworks & Former Commissioner, Atlantic East Conference

The BSN SPORTS Resilience Award honors an individual who has demonstrated extraordinary perseverance, adaptability, and strength in the face of adversity. This award recognizes those who have overcome significant challenges—whether personal, professional, or industry-wide—inspiring others through their unwavering determination and commitment to their goals. 

2025: Raven Jemison, President, Kansas City Current

The Woman to Watch Award celebrates those whose influence will continue to grow, and whose contributions are already making waves in the industry. The recipient is someone whose trajectory suggests she will play a key role in shaping the future of sports and inspiring others through her vision, drive, and commitment to excellence.

2025: Avignon T. Greene, Senior Associate, Architect, Populous

The Rising Star Award recognizes an entry-level member who is 0-3 years in their career and demonstrates potential to make a significant leadership impact in the future. This award highlights members who have an interest in pursuing a career in sport.  

2025 - Lulu Black, Former Assistant Director, Durham Sports Commission

2024 - Kayla Ketring, Manager - Custom Research, Navigate

2023
Christine "C.C." Colwell, Assistant Director of Enforcement, NCAA

2022
Jenna McKinley, Assistant Athletic Director, Facilities and Events, Colorado State University, Pueblo

2021
Kelsey L. Parks Smith, Project Coach Coordinator & Student-Athlete Wellness Coordinator, Smith College 

2020
Katy Keenan, Graduate Assistant, Texas Tech University

2019
Ashley Beaton, Athletic Administration Graduate Assistant, University of North Georgia
Christal Peterson, Coordinator for Student-Athlete Success, Inclusion, and Leadership, Wheaton College

2018
Sheridan Blanford, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Sydney Moman, University of Cincinnati
Emma Munguia, Brigham Young University

2017
Glenna Andrews, University of Portland 
Gabriella Dominguez, John Jay College of Criminal Justice 
Ayanna Tweedy, Pomona-Pitzer College 

2016
Julia Bell, Mount Holyoke College
TaRonda Randall, NCAA
Tayla Woods, Oregon State University

2015
Chelcie Abajian, Learfield Licensing Partners
Grace Bonoma, University of Louisville
Kelly Kime, Humboldt State University

2014
Julia Martin, University of Pennsylvania
Kaylyn Smith, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
Sara Steinman, Moravian College

2013
Lindsey Abercrombie, University of Denver
Hillary Bach, Arizona State University
Erin Varley, Shippensburg University

2012
Sara Eisenhauer, Macalester College
Erika Loomer, Adelphi University
Melissa Matzen, California State University, Sacramento

2011
Kathryn Ryan, Athletics Administrative Intern, University at Buffalo
Ona Peck, Game Operations Crew Leader, Niagara University
Kenya Broadnax, Athletics Marketing Assistant, California State University at East Bay

2010
NCAA Division I-FBS: Anna Chappell, Compliance Graduate Assistant, University of Oklahoma
NCAA DII: Shelby Stueve, Administrative Intern, California State University at East Bay
NCAA DIII: Jen Fried, Sports Information Director, Husson University
Conference/Organization: Eileen Patton, Educational Affairs Intern, NCAA

2009
NCAA Division I FBS: Amy Wilson, University of Iowa
NCAA Division I FCS: Christina Wright, Ohio University
NCAA Division I: Carly Chudej, University of Texas at San Antonio
NCAA Division II: Alicia Larence, Northern Kentucky University
NCAA Division III: Elizabeth “Lisa” Nash, Mount Holyoke College

 2008
NCAA Division I FBS: Georgia Davis, North Carolina State University
NCAA Division I FCS: Kristin Wood, Brown University
NCAA Division I: Brooke Meyer, University of Denver
NCAA Division III: Amy Pare, Springfield College
Conference/Organization: Kelly Diercks, Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference

The Award of Distinction is presented as a special recognition to a male or female who has distinguished him/herself with any or all of the following: unique professional contributions, extraordinary service or professional accomplishments, and/or personal courage. This is an opportunity to honor and recognize a male or female who has served as an inspiration to others while providing unique contributions under special circumstances which he/she has conducted his/her professional work or career.

2025: Global Prairie & Anne St. Peter

2019: Julie Foudy and Dr. Colleen Hacker on behalf of the 1999 U.S. Women's National Team

2018: Diana Nyad, Author, Journalist, Motivational Speaker, and long-distance swimmer

2017: Dr. Bernard Franklin, NCAA, Chief Inclusion Officer & Executive Vice President of Education & Community Engagement 

2016: Claire McCaskill, United States Senator of Missouri

2012: Pat Summitt, Head Women's Basketball Coach, University of Tennessee

2010: Diane Milutinovich, Associate Athletic Director Emeritus, Fresno State University

2009: Kay Yow, Head Women’s Basketball Coach, North Carolina State University (posthumously)

2008: Brenda Weare, Commissioner, Northeast Conference

The Dr. Claire Van Ummersen (CVU) Presidential Leadership Award is named for Dr. Claire Van Ummersen, Vice President of the American Council of Education’s (ACE) Center for Effective Leadership, and a passionate advocate for the leadership enhancement for women in athletics and higher education.

2016: Dr. Judy Genshaft, University of South Florida System

2015: Dr. Stephen M. Jordan, Metro State University of Denver

2014: Dr. Mary Evans Sias, Kentucky State University 

2013: Dr. Anne Ponder, University of North Carolina at Asheville

Honor Award Recipients

The Honor Award recognizes individuals and/or entities that have exemplified outstanding support of women in athletics and their success.     

2017: Dr. Pat Griffin 

2015: Sheila Johnson

2013: Anita DeFrantz

2011: 1999 U.S. Soccer Women’s National Team

2010: Dr. Myles Brand, Former President, NCAA (posthumously)

2009: NIKE, represented by Kit Morris and JoAn Scott

2008: National Women’s Law Center, represented by Dina Lassow

2007: Nancy Hogshead-Makar, Attorney & Professor, Florida Coastal School of Law

2006: Irv & Tora Grossman, Founders of The Collegiate Women’s Sports Award (Honda Awards)

2005: Christine Brennan, USA Today

2004: Althea Gibson (posthumously)

2003: Barbara Jordan (posthumously)

2002: Billie Jean King

2001: NACWAA Foundation Fund Donors

2000: Robin Roberts, ESPN/ABC Sports

1999: National Association for Girls & Women in Sports (NAGWAS)

1998: Donna Lopiano, Women’s Sports Foundation

1997: Birch Bayh, former Senator from Indiana who wrote the language of Title IX in 1972

1996: Norma Cantú, Office for Civil Rights

1995: State Farm Insurance Companies

1994: Sara Lee Corporation

1993: National Women’s Law Center, represented by Marcia Greenberger

1992: The Dial Corporation

1991: Anita L. DeFrantz

1990: Vivian Acosta and Linda Jean Carpenter

1989: Founding Board members of the CCWAA

1988: Rollin Haffer and Sue Durrant

1987: Members of the House of Representatives who signed the Civil Rights Restoration Act, represented by Claudine Schneider

1986: USA Today

1985: Eastman Kodak

1984: Broderick Company

Legacy Award Honorees

The Legacy Award is presented to a Women Leaders in Sports member who has made significant contributions on a national level for the betterment of intercollegiate athletics.

2016: Alfreeda Goff

2014: Karol Kahrs

2013: Jane Betts 

2008: Dr. Christine Grant 

2007: Dr. Charlotte West

2006: Judith M. Sweet 

Commitment Award Honorees

The Commitment Award recognizes a mid – senior level sport executive with 8+ years of experience who is committed to providing leadership and guidance within sports, goes beyond the call of duty, and provides outstanding service to one's department, conference office, or organization.  

2024 - Sponsored by BSN Sports
Dr. Ashlesha Lokhande, Assistant Director of Inclusion, NCAA 

2023

Jashell Mitchell, Chief of Staff Football Operations, Jackson State University 

2022
Devon L. Hendricks, Assistant Athletic Director - Event Operations, University of Texas at Austin 

2021
Shelby McKay, Assistant Director of Athletics, Student-Athlete Development, Washington State University 

2020
Cori Pinkett, Assistant Athletics Director for Character Formation, Baylor University

2019
Dr. Tiese Roxbury, Assistant Director of Research, Assessment, and Academic Success and Educational Research Scientist, NCAA 

2018
Jessica Gray, Student Athlete Development Associate, George Washington University

2017
Lindsay Jaffe, Assistant AD for Sport Services, University of Cincinnati

2016
Dr. Kristina Navarro, Assistant Athletic Director for Leadership Development, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater 

2015
Erin Adkins, Assistant Director of Compliance, University of San Diego

2014
Katie McGann, Associate Athletics Director for Compliance and Student Services, University of California, San Diego

2013
Binh Nguyen, Associate Director of Membership Services, NCAA

2012
Cynthia Rail, Associate AD for Compliance and Student-Athlete Support Services, University of Denver

2011
Jackie Luszczek, Women’s Basketball Coach, Lacrosse Coach and SWA, The Sage Colleges

2010
NCAA DI-FBS: Dayna Scherf, Assistant Commissioner-Championships, Big 12 Conference
NCAA DII: Sarah Meier, Assistant Commissioner, RMAC
NCAA DIII: Jessica Gould, Assistant Director of Athletics, Regis College (at time of nomination)
Conference/Organization: Jacklyn Driscoll, Director of Marketing, Communications and Web Technology, NACWAA

2009
NCAA DI-FBS:Lindy Roberts, Director of Event Management, University of Oklahoma
NCAA DI-FCS: Ann-Marie Guglieri, Assistant Director of Athletics and Compliance Officer, Colgate University
NCAA DI-FCS: Michelle Bronner, Director of Compliance, University of North Florida 
NCAA DII: Meghan Barter, Senior Assistant Athletic Director, University of West Florida
NCAA DIII: Carol Cantele, Assistant Director of Athletics/SWA/Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach, Gettysburg University

2008
NCAA DI-FBS: Lori Hays, Assistant Athletic Director for Operations, Boise State University
NCAA DI-FCS: Michelle Roppeau, Director of Academic Services, University of California, Davis
NCAA DI: Cindi Nagai, Associate Athletic Director for Student Support Services, University of Denver
NCAA DII: Ann Martin, Associate Director of Athletics, Regis University
NCAA DIII: Erin Barney, Assistant Director of Athletics, Rutgers University Camden
NAIA/NJCAA/CC: Staci Schottman, Director of Public Relations & Communications, NAIA

The Promising Professional Award recognizes a sport executive of 4-7 years who has made an exemplary impact in their current role. This award calls attention to an individual with outstanding commitment to excellence.

2024 - sponsored by BSN Sports
Alex Sommer, Assistant Academic Counselor, Student-Athlete Development, The Ohio State University

2023

Jana' Boyd, Assistant Director for Creative Services & Digital Content, CIAA

2022
Haydyn Gibson, Coordinator of DII Governance, NCAA

2021
Jessica Ramberg, Director of Digital Media, America East Conference 

2020
Sable Lee, Assistant Director of Student-Athlete Development, Clemson University