Rising Stars Spotlight: Lauren McCree
Lauren McCree currently serves as Marketing Intern for the Detroit Tigers Inc. and is an MBA candidate at Wayne State University with a concentration in Sport and Entertainment Management. Lauren discovered her passion for sports as an undergraduate at the University of Michigan where she earned her bachelors degree in Sport Management. While at U-M, Lauren served as a recruiting intern for Michigan Football under the leadership of Brady Hoke and later Jim Harbaugh. Soon after, she served as a recruiting assistant for the University of Virginia Football team. Investing in her professional development, Lauren attends the attends the Women Leaders National Convention and AFCA convention, as well as is a Women's Leadership Symposium '19 graduate!
Why did you join Women Leaders and how has the organization helped you in your career?
Women Leaders has truly been heaven sent and I do not say that lightly. I joined Women Leaders to connect and expand my network. However, being a member for almost 18 months, I have not only grown professionally, I developed personal connections with women who have become my peers, mentors, and advocates on my behalf.
What is the most rewarding part of your job working for the Detroit Tigers?
One of the most rewarding parts about my job is having the opportunity to work under my boss. She is the Vice President of Marketing and one of the few Black women who hold an Executive Position within the MLB.
With it being the month of February, what does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a time of reflection on my past and our expectations for a promising future. I am humbled by the Black men and women, particularly in sports, who have, through great sacrifice, opened doors and created opportunities for so many.
What has been the greatest difference between working in professional vs. college sports?
I believe the greatest difference between professional versus college sports has been the interactions with athletes to employees. In college, you have the opportunity to interact with players and can watch the growth from freshman to senior year. In professional sports, you may only see the players during the season, and even in my position, it is a rare occasion.
Who is a sports icon that you look up to?
Coach Pat Summitt and honorable mention, Kobe Bryant.
Having lived in several different places in the U.S., what's your favorite city?
I am so appreciative of the places that I have lived in, but there is truly no place like home (Detroit, MI)
This or That?
- Play sports or watch sports?
- Sweet or salty?
- Sweet (specifically buttercream frosted cupcakes)
- Early riser or night owl?
- Night Owl- I need to stop watching murder mysteries at 2am on Netflix
What's something you've always wanted to do but are too afraid try?
Skydiving, I do not think I will ever commit. Thankfully, there are simulators.
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with fellow Rising Stars?
Invest in yourself. Period. Whether it is paying a professional to create a new and improved resume, to revamping your social media, it is worth it. In the past year, I have invested so much in my career to get back into college football. I am not there yet. However, I am confident and have faith that the seeds that I have planted will manifest.