2012 Women's Leadership Symposium

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Over 100 female sports leaders gathered in Boston on September 18-19 at the 2012 Women’s Leadership Symposium. Organized by the America East Conference, the Symposium united young professionals with experienced administrators for two days of exciting educational and networking sessions.

Panels offered a comprehensive set of topics that speak to the challenges faced by women in college athletics: managing diversity, empowering team members, building relationships on campus and more. A theme that was interwoven among several sessions was the importance of identifying one’s personal mission statement and using those core values to advance a career and to become a stronger leader.

The agenda featured several general sessions as well as two breakout periods where attendees could select topics relevant to their particular positions in athletics or stages of their career. Speakers represented a broad spectrum of the sport industry, from professional leagues to college athletics and blue-chip brands to consulting firms. Presentations were conducted in panel format, allowing for lively discussion amongst the speakers and numerous questions from audience members.

The significance of hosting a Women’s Leadership Symposium only a few months after the fortieth anniversary of Title IX was not lost on Pat Meiser, Director of Athletics at the University of Hartford and a trailblazer for women’s equality in sport.

“For me personally, [Title IX] has been my life story,” said Meiser. “When I think back over my 43 years in college athletics [I recall] the lives of the young people that are moving on, being challenged and showing passion. It’s been a lot of fun and it is great to see so many women in one room.”

For Symposium attendees, speakers proved adept at distilling the concept of leadership in to many pithy quotes that will stick with me over the years to come.

“The essence of leadership is to have a vision,” offered Bridget Belgiovine, Director of Athletics at Wellesley College. Others highlighted the importance of courage, values-based decision making and personal branding. 

Visit Women Talk Sports each Monday to read the weekly Pro Day column featuring interviews with women at the top of their game, including several Symposium panelists. The series will feature career insights and advice from women who are paving the way for a rising generation of sports business leaders.

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