Obama Foundation的动态

The Olympics bring tremendous sports achievement and inspiration! But did you know... there's an extensive network of sports industries that support all types of athletes, teams and leagues, everyday? Many of today's sports executives hail from Gettysburg College. And networking, through the Gettysburg Network, is all about teamwork—on their "Path to the Pros." Check out my first feature article for Gettysburg College magazine, in their new summer issue: https://lnkd.in/eYYYGQuR

As I sit and watch these amazing Caitlin Clark highlights, I’m blown away at what her, Angel Reese (Chicago Sky WNBA) and the other new WNBA (Women's National Basketball Association) players have brought to the game. The skill, attention, new fans, lifted experience is so needed and I am here for it. Allow me to share some powerful lessons from Caitlyn Clark’s sensational rise, which resonate deeply with our journey at Dion's Chicago Dream ?? Firstly, “Some will look at you as a threat. Others will see you as evolution.” As we’ve expanded our reach, providing thousands with access to fresh food in the Chicagoland region, we’ve seen varied reactions. Some see our approach as disruptive, while others recognize it as a necessary evolution in tackling food insecurity. Both perspectives fuel our commitment to innovate and serve more effectively. Secondly, “Focus on what you control—your training, your studying, and your execution.” At Dion’s Chicago Dream, we emphasize meticulous planning and execution. Whether it’s strategizing distributions or honing our community engagements, our focus remains on what we can control to maximize our impact. Like Caitlin, who dominates the court by focusing on her game, we strive to excel in our mission through relentless dedication. Lastly, “The fun comes in the journey, not the destination, and this is indeed fun.” Witnessing the joy and relief on the faces we help is profoundly rewarding. Our work is more than a mission; it’s a passion that fills us with excitement every day. Supporting communities, watching them thrive, and knowing you’re part of that process is not just fun; it’s exhilarating! Join us as we continue this fantastic journey. Your support not only helps us grow—it energizes the entire movement. Let’s make a difference together, making every step of this journey enjoyable and impactful. ?? #DionsChicagoDream #CommunityImpact #GrowthJourney

One of my favorite memories from my childhood was seeing the Harlem Globetrotters in person, at the Cleveland Colosseum in the 1980's. Yes I know I'm dating myself. ?? A conversation with Patricia Lindner reminded me of this aspect of the cultural phenomenon that was and is, the Harlem Globetrotters. The Globetrotters' formation and rise can be seen as a multifaceted response to the racial dynamics and exploitation prevalent in professional basketball and American society at the time. Some key points to consider... Historical Context: The Harlem Globetrotters were founded in 1926, during a period when racial segregation was rampant in the United States. African American players were excluded from professional basketball leagues, including the NBA, which did not integrate until 1950. Providing Opportunities: The Globetrotters offered African American players a chance to showcase their talents at a time when opportunities in professional sports were severely limited. This not only provided a livelihood for many black athletes but also allowed them to demonstrate their skills on a national and international stage. Exploitation and Agency: While the Globetrotters provided opportunities, it's also important to acknowledge the complex nature of their existence. They were, in many ways, a product of and a response to exploitation. The team capitalized on the entertainment value of their games, which sometimes involved playing into stereotypes to appeal to predominantly white audiences. This duality reflects both a strategy for success within a constrained system and a form of agency and resistance against systemic racism. Cultural Impact: The Globetrotters challenged racial stereotypes by consistently defeating all-white teams, including professional teams. Their success and popularity helped pave the way for the integration of African American players into mainstream professional basketball. Legacy and Change: The Harlem Globetrotters' legacy is one of resilience and adaptation. They used entertainment and exceptional skill to break down racial barriers and challenge the status quo, ultimately contributing to the eventual integration and acceptance of African American athletes in the NBA and other professional sports. The Harlem Globetrotters were both a reaction to and a product of the racial segregation and exploitation of their time. They provided a platform for African American athletes to excel and made significant cultural contributions that helped change the landscape of professional basketball. And like the old codger that I've become, I can't stand what professional basketball, particular the NBA, has become today. ?? Thoughts?

Exciting News!??? I am excited to share that I will be starting a new series of weekly posts here on LinkedIn, focusing on the dynamic intersection of business and sports. This new endeavor merges two of my biggest passions and complements my ongoing academic journey at Columbia University, where I am pursuing an M.S. in Sports Management . Through these posts, I will explore various aspects of the sports industry from a business standpoint, discussing trends, opportunities, and challenges. I'll also spotlight significant news and developments related to historically black colleges and women in sports, two areas that are particularly meaningful to me. Expect insights from my personal experiences, academic learnings, and professional encounters, as well as features and reposts on inspiring individuals and groundbreaking initiatives in the sports world. You can also visit my website, QueenHillSports.com., for more articles and content. Stay tuned for my first post later this week, and feel free to share your thoughts and engage in the conversation!!??? #SportsBusiness #WomenInSports #HBCUs #SportsAdministration #BusinessInsights #SportsIndustry #WeeklyInsights #ColumbiaUniversity

It’s May and we’ve got Pacers and Racers alive in Indy! As the Indiana Pacers compete in the NBA’s Eastern Conference Finals and Indy prepares for the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500, we gathered experts from the sports world to share insights into the powerful role sports play in our global community.? This afternoon’s panel at the Indiana Global Economic Summit featured Marissa Andretti of Andretti Global, Mel Raines of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Roger VanDerSnick of the Indianapolis Colts and moderator Julie Roe Lach of the Horizon League. From the cultural exchanges on the field to the economic ripples throughout our cities, the influence of sports extends far beyond the final score. Our panelists explored how teams and organizations are navigating their expanding global reach and leveraging the power of social media to elevate the profiles of athletes and teams worldwide.? The economic impact is undeniable – creating jobs, boosting tourism revenue and offering global exposure to brands. Indiana has quickly become a hub for the future of sports technology. The work of Sports Tech HQ will ensure the Hoosier state remains a leader.? As we celebrate the achievements happening locally, let’s also recognize the broader impact sports have on the world stage. The game (and race) continues and so does our conversation on its global influence. #INGlobalSummit #Indiana #sports #economicdevelopment

So many people doubted me when I decided to leave my successful career in Corporate America to invest in a #franchise. My advice to anyone considering a similar path…embrace doubt as your secret weapon. Let others question your abilities, for it should fuel your determination and become the catalyst for exponential growth. Doubt is not a hindrance; it’s a force multiplier that can propel you towards greatness. #beaconfranchiseconsulting #beyourownboss #franchiseopportunities #ownyourownbusiness #EmbraceDoubt #ForceMultiplier

Being from North Carolina, I am a fan of Cam Newton.?He is probably the most important football player we have ever had.?Not necessarily my favorite player ever, but certainly the one that brought the #Panthers the most relevance. Not just great on the field, he was a steward of the community and mostly a stand up role model.?That is why I hated reading about the fight he was involved with at a youth football event last week (https://lnkd.in/gXw2A2PW). The fight itself though is not really the problem. It is what it represents.? It further underscores the growing toxicity in youth sports culture. I don't believe participation trophies are teaching the kids the most valuable lessons of being on a team.?However, I know that if youth sports continue down the current path, all the great lessons of sport will be lost, and many that would benefit from competition, will never actually participate.? Playing football was one of the best experiences I ever had, and shaped so many of the values I still carry today.?I took my lumps, lost organs and broke bones, but I came out with a better understanding of how the world works. I learned how to be on a team, and most importantly I learned about empathy for my teammates and competitors.?I believe that sports shape and build character and can be the catalyst for creating great leaders.?I don't want to see that lost. Lightbeam has been exploring removing toxicity from youth sports through storytelling and we're close to the release of the first film in a series called Let Them Play.?What is happening that is causing so many children to walk away from the games they love??And how do we get them to come back?? ? I'm so proud of this project and can’t wait to share the first story!?Our characters embodied both sides - a kid struggling to find lost passion for a game that meant so much to him, and the mentor coach that helps him find his way back. More to come on the premier, so for now please enjoy this great looking poster from our friends at The Robot Eye, Inc. Shout out to our team: Jesse Scolaro, Dave Stevens, Stephanie Sharis,?Spruce Tone, Palmer Morse, Chris Davidson?(The Robot Eye) #Lightbeam #Sports #Football #AmericanFootball #CamNewton #Panthers #CarolinaPanthers #YouthSports #News #SportsNews #PositiveMedia #Impact #Storytelling #SportsBiz #SportsBusiness #SportPsychology #SportsContent #Documentary #DocumentaryFilm

???? One of my favorite weekends of the year...March Madness ???? Who doesn't love a good Cinderella story?! I can't help but think of all the prep and hard work the players put in all season long to prepare for the next few weeks in hopes of getting to the Championship game. Just like these teams, continuing education relies on the same key components: 1. **Teamwork and Collaboration:** Just like in basketball, teams must work together to achieve success, continuing education often involves collaboration and teamwork. Whether it's group projects, peer discussions, or networking events, learners can enhance their skills by engaging with others and leveraging collective knowledge. 2. **Goal Setting and Persistence:** March Madness teams set their sights on the championship, facing challenges, injuries and setbacks along the way. Similarly, individuals pursuing continuing education set goals for career advancement or personal development. Through determination and persistence, they navigate obstacles and stay focused on their end goal. 3. **Adaptability and Learning Agility:** In a fast-paced tournament environment, teams must adapt their strategies based on opponents and game situations. Likewise, in today's ever-evolving professional landscape, individuals need learning agility to acquire new skills, stay current with industry trends, and adapt to changes in their field. So, whether you're cheering for your favorite team or embarking on a new educational journey, embrace the spirit of March Madness and strive for excellence both on and off the court! ?? Would love to hear who you have going all the way in your brackets! I have Arizona taking it all the way for the Men and University of Wisconsin-Green Bay for the Women! #GoPhoenix #MarchMadness #ContinuingEducation #LifelongLearning #Teamwork #Adaptability

Who would I be without sports? How would I be without sports? I ask these questions as a personal exercise; an attempt to quantify the impact that playing sports had on the course of my life, my career, my community, and personhood. Who would I be without the know-how to pick and roll, box out, give and go, rebound, get the 50/50 ball? How would I be without understanding the pressure to win, having the chance to come from behind, taking the opportunity to beat the buzzer? These are sportsy words and terms that I learned, practiced, and utilized as a basketball and lacrosse player. And, they are concepts that continue to inform my efforts in business, particularly when founding Brave Enterprises and especially now as we build The Post. As we all celebrate National Girls + Women in Sports Day, and do all we can to get as many girls to start (and to keep playing) sports as possible, I challenge you to think of who and how you are because of sports.

Thrilled to be featured in this news article as a Young Scholar of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion! ?? Grateful for the incredible journey at Ohio State, where I've honed my skills and passion. Excited to tackle the sports world as an aspiring agent! ?? Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gHQ-q56R #ODIScholar #GraduateSpotlight #DiversityandInclusion #AspiringSportsAgent"