Because of Title IX: Louise McCleary

Director of Division III, NCAA

Finish this sentence: “Because of Title IX...”

As a teenager, I had the opportunity to watch Mariann Stanley, Nancy Lieberman, Anne Donovan, and many others play outstanding collegiate basketball at ODU in front of tens of thousands of fans and believe the same opportunities could be afforded to me and the future generations of female student-athletes.

How have the athletic and academic opportunities afforded to you because of Title IX impacted your life? Can you imagine your life without them?

Between growing up watching ODU basketball and attending an all-women’s college, the impact of Title IX wasn’t truly felt until I started my professional career. My parents always encouraged me to pursue my goals and dreams, and the courage to enter a career in collegiate sports which was a more male-dominated profession in the early '90s. I have watched Title IX continue to open doors for women, and I still think there is so much more that will occur in the coming decades.

Tell us about a woman who championed you in pursuing your goals. How did her influence inspire or affect you and your career?

My mother always supported me in my athletic, career, and personal choices. She instilled confidence in me to dream big, work hard, and make the most out of life.

How are you continuing to champion the next generation of women and girls in sports, and raise awareness on the importance Title IX?

In my current role at the NCAA, I have the opportunity to work with all 450 Division III schools and 43 conference offices, who have a passion to provide opportunities for girls and women in sport. I applaud Division III’s effort to continue to diversify itself and promote girls and women. At the membership’s direction, I was thrilled to oversee the inaugural Division III SWA Program held in conjunction with the Women Leaders In College Sports Convention and look forward to continued collaboration.

If you could send an empowering tweet to every woman and girl across the country, what would you send?

When you get knocked down, stand up and reassess, learn from the moment, do not be discouraged, and know you are making a difference.