The Doug Williams Center and NFL Campus Connections partnered to host dozens of Grambling State University students for a virtual forum with NFL executive leadership on launching careers that help chart a more inclusive culture in the professional sports industry and beyond. Such topics as industry-wide accountability for racial equality and individual affectivity in social advancement were covered by event panelists which include
- Natara Holloway, the NFL’s Vice President of Business Operations & Strategy,
- Jamil Gittens, Director of Football Administration and Club Services,
- Jashell Mitchell, Manager, Player Engagement,
- Arthur McAfee III, Senior Vice President, Football Operations Policy and Education, and
- the Center’s namesake, Doug Williams, the first Black quarterback to start and win in a Super Bowl, who now serves as the NFL’s Senior Vice President of Player Development.Among students attending the event was Taylor M. Nunley, a 2020 graduate of Grambling State with a major in sports management. Nunley plans to attend law school beginning next Fall and aspires to take her credentials and passion into the professional sports industry.
“This event was exactly what I needed as an undergrad pursuing a career in professional sports,” said Nunley. “After hearing all of the panelists speak, I felt inspired. I made lifelong connections through this amazing opportunity.
The Center aims to challenge students to use their unique perspectives to bring diversity and inclusion solutions into the professional and collegiate sports industry. Speakers shared practical advice on entering and advancing in the industry as well as personal development and racial progress.
Minority and woman student-athletes, current HBCU students interested in careers in the sports industry, and sports educators are encouraged to register for the events at dougwilliamscenter.com/events. For media inquiries, contact Raven Thissel at rthissel@dougwilliamscenter.com.
