Hi ladies,
This September is already in full swing. First, I hope everyone took a moment this morning to never forget 9/11, I personally re-read and re-watched some powerful stories of sports tied to that tragic day and remembered sports' power to help heal.
Also, as if it wasn't already apparent, after last night's debate, don't forget about how we can use our collective voices to drive change ahead of the election - the NBA has a helpful hub of resources you can use for how to vote.
There is no shortage of important things going on - I curated as much as I could below, alongside featuring a powerhouse woman who has been at this work for over 40 years!
Keep connecting and sharing via our private LinkedIn group and ICYMI click here and scroll down to access all previous WISSC issues.
I look forward to seeing D.C. area ladies this evening at happy hour and to everyone else, please keep connecting and passing along what you're up to making a difference through the power of sports, and I will do my best to keep sharing. This community is stronger together.
Thanks,
Mandy
This month's 5 things:
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1. One of the best things I saw:
This past Friday, I had the honor to attend the President's Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition annual meeting in D.C. and watched some wonderful humans walk across the stage and receive awards for their efforts in using the power of sports to serve others - the first time the council has done national awards in five years.
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2. What to watch for:
SBJ's annual Game Changers issue drops next week celebrating trailblazing women in sports, and the celebration and conference in NYC will be on Sept. 25-26, more info here (and hope to see you there!).
The world's fastest women will also be in NYC, with the debut of Athlos at Icahn Stadium on the night of Sept. 26th - and loved to read that "10% of all revenue from ATHLOS, including ticketing sales, will be re-distributed back to participating athletes."
Also, over in London on October 8th will be the Sport Positive Awards - learn more here.
In the meantime, this Friday, Sept. 13th, DC Power Football Club (Power FC), the newest women's pro soccer team in Washington, D.C. is playing its inaugural Home Opener at Audi Field. Power FC is increasing the opportunities for women to play soccer closer to home. You can become part of history by kicking off the season at the home opener on Friday - the WISSC community has been invited to access special discounted tickets! (and there's also a Women’s Powerhouse Panel before the game).
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3. Opportunities to consider:
Ahead of the upcoming international #EqualPayDay, there’s a webinar tomorrow on Pay Equity in Sports, register here.
Next Thursday, Sept. 19th, RWJF is hosting a webinar on Using Sports Culture for Narrative Change, register here.
Lastly, a reminder that the deadline for Front Office Sports and Sports Innovation Lab’s inaugural “most impactful” award is October 6th. This award recognizes those that have used the power and platform they possess to make an impact. Submit your amazing sports org and/or leader here.
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5. Woman of Wisdom:
Meet our latest WISSC 'Woman of Wisdom' using the power of sports to drive social change, a longtime friend and industry colleague who I've learned so much from over the years - Lisa Kovlakas.
Meet Lisa:
As a corporate citizenship lead for strategic partnerships, Lisa develops and implements strategic plans to increase ESPN’s commitment to using sport for social good. She recently celebrated 40 YEARS at the company! She started as a part-time switchboard operator, then transitioned to full-time PR and then to corporate citizenship where she continues to manage ESPN’s efforts in fundraising and storytelling for key causes.
Lisa's advice to other women:
“Relationships and trust are the most important part of being successful. Reach out to others and lean on them for guidance and support. I’m very grateful for those who helped mentor me through the years. The real measure of success often comes from the connections we make and the positive impact we have on others. Building strong relationships and helping people along the way can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.”
Lisa's call to action:
“Be the change you wish to see in the world” – sign up and volunteer to help those with different abilities or who are less fortunate, as Lisa shares that “the difference that I’ve helped make for others will be the most lasting and rewarding aspect of my career.”
If you want to learn more about Lisa and the ESPN Citizenship team's work in the community, click here.
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Thanks for reading and being part of this community.
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