COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Big Ten Conference hosted its inaugural Women’s Leadership Summit in Rosemont, Illinois at the conference headquarters last week, inviting coaches, student-athletes and administrators from all 14 member institutions to the two-day summit. The creation of this leadership summit commemorates the 50th anniversary of the passage of Title IX.
The conference welcomed a remarkable group of guest speakers to join the student-athletes, coaches and administrators in networking, learning and mentorship opportunities. Representing Ohio State was the University President, Dr. Kristina Johnson, as well as Janine Oman, the senior woman administrator, Amy Bokker, the head women’s lacrosse coach, and student-athletes Gabby Gonzales (volleyball), Madison Greene (basketball) and Nina LeFlore (soccer).
The Big Ten Conference Women’s Leadership Summit began on June 23, 2022, the 50th anniversary of the passage of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination in any education program on the basis of sex (gender). Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren delivered the opening remarks, while Sarah Spain, ESPN Radio and ESPNW personality, served as the emcee for an exclusive dinner and red-carpet celebration.
“The Big Ten Conference Women’s Leadership Summit brings together some of the most exceptional women in collegiate athletics and underscores the mission of the Big Ten Conference to elevate women’s sports,” Warren said. “This event is a celebration of the 50th anniversary of Title IX and a reflection of our unwavering commitment to delivering transformational educational experiences and growth opportunities to our student-athletes.”
The leadership summit continued on June 24 with a full day of programming at the Big Ten Conference headquarters in Rosemont. A variety of guest speakers presented throughout the day, beginning with a History of Title IX panel, featuring five trailblazers including former Big Ten Conference Deputy Commissioner Diane Dietz. Other featured speakers included an Olympian, FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion, broadcasters from ESPN and Big Ten Network, CEO of the United States Tennis Association and employees with multiple professional sports teams.
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