Leadership Academy for Women’s Sports

The Leadership Academy for Women’s Sports was designed for individuals seeking to enter or advance in the business of women’s sports. Women’s Sports represents a growing financial opportunity, and contributes a positive impact to society.

This program equipped participants with the skills, networks, and industry insights needed to excel in leadership roles across the women’s sports business. Participants sharpened leadership skills, built a personal brand, gained business fluency, and learned to harness the industry’s power to create positive social impact.

The Need for Equity Fluent Recovery

Individual Leadership Skills
New Business Strategies
Industry Fluency
Peer Network
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Testimonials

I was beyond inspired by the entire program and the people in the room. I left feeling rejuvenated, inspired, motivated and with so much more skills and knowledge that I could apply to my future work.

I would recommend this program without hesitation. The past three days have been nothing short of transformative. The Leadership Academy is a rare experience that balances intellectual challenge with deep personal connection.

My network has grown both in breadth and depth. When I picture myself looking back on my company's growth a year from now, the connections made at the Leadership Academy will be the vital ingredient for success.

I'm walking away with more than just a toolkit; I have the renewed vision and momentum necessary to drive a positive, lasting impact on the future of women's sports.

The caliber of leadership in the cohort is unmatched — the networking feels like being part of an astronaut crew tasked with sending women's sports into the stratosphere.

I am returning home empowered, believing in myself and my place in the room, with new skills to help navigate conflict, fine tune my personal brand and grow myself in my current role and look to make my next moves.

Former Participants

Jennifer Bower
Chief Revenue Officer, San Diego FC
Jessica Carter
Executive Director, HER Sports
Keisha May Crum
Manager, Business Operations, Golden State Valkyries
Alysia Montaño
Founder & President, For All Mothers+
Liz Chance
Director of Development, Bay Area Host Committee
Kristen Rodgers
Director, Brand & Sports, Plug and Play Ventures
Toccara Ross
Coach, Upshot League
Cam Van
Founder, Couro
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Advisory Committee

Brandi Chastain
Retired soccer player & Co-founder, Bay FC
Charmin Smith
Head Coach, Cal Women’s Basketball
Danette Leighton
CEO, Women’s Sports Foundation
Fayne Cohen
President, Bay Area Women in Sports & Events
Karina Herold
Chief Operating Officer, Bay Area Host Committee
Kelly deMarrais
Head of Women’s Sports Investing, Earlystone
Jennifer Vescio
Principal & Operating Partner, Awestruck Ventures
Sean Campbell
Head of Community-Engaged Investing, Earlystone
Taj McWilliams-Franklin
VP of Basketball Operations, The Upshot League

Sponsorship

The Leadership Academy for Women’s Sports is more than a program, it’s a launchpad. We believe that financial barriers should never stand in the way of a woman’s potential to lead. Through the power of our partners, we strive to provide 100% sponsored tuition for every participant.

By becoming a donor, you aren't just funding a seat; you’re investing in the next generation of industry changemakers. Join us in leveling the playing field. Contact egal@berkeley.edu to learn how you can support our scholars or sponsor a future leader today.