Celebrating a milestone, ESPNW’s 2024 Women and Sports Summit in Ojai, California, will bring together top women leaders in sports, business, and media. Set from October 28 to 30, this special event marks the 15th anniversary of ESPNW’s efforts to elevate women in sports and beyond. The Summit offers unique opportunities for networking, knowledge-sharing, and inspiration, featuring accomplished women who have made significant contributions to their fields.
Keynote Speakers: Willow Bay and Allyson Felix
Two prominent women will take center stage as keynote speakers at the Summit. Willow Bay, Dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism and owner of Angel City Football Club, will speak on media’s role in shaping the future of women’s sports. Allyson Felix, an 11-time Olympic medalist and founder of the women-focused sports management firm Always Alpha, will share her journey with attendees.
In a special conversation, Felix will join Julie Foudy, ESPNW Podcast Host and World Cup Champion, to discuss the vision behind Always Alpha and her impact on women in sports management. These talks promise insights on leadership, growth, and the importance of women-centric spaces in sports.
Powerful Athlete Panels and Engaging Sessions
The Summit will host an exciting World-Class Athlete Panel featuring Olympic Gold Medalist Kaleah Cooper, Olympian Clarissa Shields, 15-time World Champion Hannah Storm, and 4-time WNBA All-Star Masai Russell. This star-studded panel will discuss their careers, challenges, and the evolving role of women in sports, offering a glimpse into their inspiring journeys.
Additional sessions will address the booming female sports fanbase, examining effective engagement strategies. With presentations on sports medicine for women, the Summit will focus on athletes’ health and wellness as an essential element for empowering female sports enthusiasts and athletes alike.
Mentorship and Music Highlights
Attendees will experience the Toyota’s Everyday Heroes Program and a mentorship showcase from the U.S. Department of State Global Sports Mentoring Program. These programs aim to support and guide future female leaders in sports and media, offering a valuable space for mentorship and professional growth.
As a special highlight, Brittany Howard will perform live, adding a musical touch to the empowering atmosphere. Her performance reflects ESPNW’s commitment to blending inspiration and celebration, creating an environment where creativity and empowerment thrive.
Reflecting on WNBA’s Historic Season and Empowering Future Generations
Esteemed sports analysts, including Andraya Carter and Carolyn Peck, will review one of the most historic seasons in WNBA history. Through panels and discussions, the Summit aims to reflect on groundbreaking moments in women’s sports and discuss pathways to elevate women’s leagues and athletes.
The Summit’s blend of panels, breakout sessions, and networking will engage participants and inspire conversations to further advance women’s roles in sports for future generations. Virtual attendance is available, providing global access to this impactful event. Registration for virtual attendance is free, while in-person participation remains invite-only, ensuring a unique experience for all involved.
