Syracuse Sun

Women Leaders in Sports, a nationally recognized organization, recently collaborated with Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics to offer mentorship and networking opportunities for Syracuse University students. This partnership aims to bolster the careers of women in sports management through various programs including professional development sessions and internships.

During a recent visit, Women Leaders in Sports CEO Patti Phillips and Chief Strategy and Operating Officer Christina Turner engaged with students from Falk College and the Newhouse School. As part of this visit, they hosted a lunch meeting to discuss career paths and industry insights.

At the lunch meeting, students Emily Gilbert, Lexi Katz, and Allison Vims shared their experiences and thoughts. Emily Gilbert noted, "Meeting with Christina and Patti was a wonderful experience, and learning more about their professional journeys and how they got to where they are now was eye-opening." She also shared insights into the significance of networking and the challenges women face in the sports industry. Gilbert highlighted that the organization provides opportunities to help future candidates be more competitive in the job market.

Lexi Katz mentioned, "I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to meet with Patti Phillips and Christina Turner and they shared valuable insights on how to be a successful woman in sports and break into the competitive industry." Katz also expressed her gratitude for the partnership and its potential to foster professional growth among students.

Allison Vims emphasized the importance of support and advice from leaders like Phillips, "Patti listened first, then broke down scenarios and different ways to attack each situation to ensure that we would keep our seats at the table." Vims affirmed the partnership's role in setting Falk College apart from other sports management programs by offering direct engagement with industry leaders.

The partnership between Women Leaders in Sports and Falk College was announced in August 2024 following the Women in Leadership Initiative at Syracuse University. It aims to share knowledge, create fellowship opportunities, and support faculty and students. As part of the collaboration, Phillips serves as a special advisor to Falk College Dean Jeremy Jordan and an "executive in residence."

This collaboration underscores the critical role of mentorship in developing future leaders in the sports industry, providing students with tools needed to succeed and ensuring equal opportunities for women in sports management. Falk College students, faculty, and staff have also participated in key events, such as the Women Leaders in Sports 2024 National Convention.