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Important Dates

Women Leaders in Sports cycle: June (applications open); mid-July (participation confirmed)

NCAA Inclusion Forum cycle: October (applications open); late November (participation confirmed)

At the recommendation of the Division III Diversity and Inclusion Working Group, in 2016, NCAA governance staff partnered with Women Leaders in Sports to offer a professional development opportunity for Division III senior woman administrators (SWAs). Each year, Division III provides funding for 30 SWAs to participate in this division-specific program.

The program is held in conjunction with either the Women Leaders in Sports National Convention or the NCAA Inclusion Forum. The program is designed to provide professional development and networking opportunities for SWAs, particularly those interested in pursuing athletics director and/or conference commissioner roles.

Why Participate?

Build

Build a strong Division III network of SWA peers and mentors.

Strengthen

Strengthen leadership skills and career readiness for athletics director and conference leadership pathways.

Gain

Gain practical insight into networking, budgeting and positioning for senior leadership roles.

Experience

Participate in Division III-specific programming in addition to the host event experience.

This program is intended for Division III senior woman administrators who are interested in professional growth, expanding their leadership network and preparing for future leadership roles within athletics departments or conference offices.

Program Format

  • Division III provides funding for 30 participants annually.
  • The program aligns with the Women Leaders in Sports National Convention or the NCAA Inclusion Forum.
  • Participants receive registration for the host event and a one-year membership to Women Leaders in Sports.

Applications open seasonally based on the program host event

Application Questions

Resources

Key Findings: Study to Optimize the Role of the SWA
Female Administrator Enhancement Grant
Division III Diversity and Inclusion
Senior Woman Administrators overview
The SWA Designation
Are You Maximizing the SWA’s Impact?
Women Leaders in Sports

Questions?

Still have additional questions? Contact us at aspungen@ncaa.org.