DSU students host inaugural Women in Sports Conference
Delaware State University’s student-run Sport Management Organization recently hosted its inaugural Women in Sports Conference, bringing together students, industry professionals and community members for a day centered on mentorship, learning and celebrating the impact of women across the sports industry.
The event opened with welcoming remarks from SMO Secretary Leah Brown, a Delaware State University student who served as host and introduced fellow DSU student and SMO President Kaliya Garcia. Garcia said the conference was designed to give students the opportunity to hear directly from professionals and gain insight into the many career paths available in the sports industry.
Throughout the day, attendees heard from professionals working across different areas of sports through three panel discussions exploring media and communications, sports administration and athlete support.
The first panel focused on careers in sports media and communications. Moderated by Akaiya Morrison, a DSU student and member of the SMO Women in Sports Committee, the conversation featured Paris Dupree, vice president of business and legal affairs at One Team Partners, and Tia Jarvis, a senior mass communications student at DSU.
Panelists discussed the evolving sports media landscape, including the impact of name, image and likeness opportunities and the growing role of legal representation in athletics. They also encouraged students to gain hands-on experience, build professional networks and remain adaptable as they begin their careers.
The second panel, moderated by DSU student Mirrah Morris of the SMO Women in Sports Committee, explored sports business, administration and youth athletics. Noel Maloney, athletic director at Lindenwold Public Schools, shared insight into the leadership and planning required to run successful sports programs.
The discussion highlighted how technology and data analytics are shaping modern sports administration while also bringing attention to the many career opportunities available in youth and recreational sports. Panelists emphasized that leadership in athletics extends far beyond what happens on the field.
The final panel focused on athlete support and sports medicine and was moderated by Leah Brown. Panelists Eulonda Pfister, an athletic academic advisor at Delaware State University, and Taylor Price, a physician assistant at First State Orthopedic, discussed the importance of supporting athletes both academically and physically.
They spoke about the connection between performance and wellness, as well as the challenges of balancing competitive demands with long-term athlete health. Students were encouraged to seek out opportunities early and remain committed to athlete-centered care.
Olympian Priscilla Loomis delivered the conference’s keynote address, sharing her journey through athletics, media and leadership. A New Jersey native, Loomis spoke about the resilience required for women to succeed in sports spaces that have historically been male dominated.
Her message focused on confidence, purpose and growth, encouraging attendees to trust their abilities and continue pursuing their goals.
The event concluded with an induction and certificate ceremony led by KaMaya Baines Butler, recognizing individuals for their achievements and contributions to sports.
Attendees were also encouraged to continue supporting women in athletics by attending the DSU women’s basketball game later that day. The Hornets secured a 75 to 66 victory, making it an especially memorable senior night celebration.
The inaugural Women in Sports Conference served as a reminder of the influence, resilience and leadership of women in athletics while inspiring the next generation of sports professionals.
