U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris recently hosted a unique gathering at her home with more than 100 women influential in sports. There were Olympians, Paralympians, athletic directors, sports broadcasters, and team presidents. Some of the most notable names were four-time Olympic basketball gold medalist Lisa Leslie, history-making Olympic ice dance champion Meryl Davis, Big East Commissioner Val Ackerman, and Atlanta Dream co-owner Renee Montgomery.

“It was inspiring to be surrounded by individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. The energy in the room was filled with passion, determination, and a shared commitment to advancing women’s representation in sports,” said Melody Webb, director of athletics at Norfolk State University.

Other athletic directors in attendance included Nina King of Duke; Dr. Alecia Shields-Gadson of Delaware State; Candice Storey Lee of Vanderbilt; Jennifer Cohen of the University of Southern California; and Dena Freeman-Patton of Morgan State. Webb noted that it was a celebration of diversity and inclusion in sports that encouraged her to keep advocating for equal opportunities.

“Seeing the Vice President acknowledge the importance of diversity and representation in sports reaffirms the significance of our efforts to break down barriers and promote gender equality in athletics,” Webb said. “It underscores the idea that sports transcend mere competition; they are a platform for empowerment, leadership, and social change.”

A report published last week by Dr. Shaun Harper, founder and executive director of the University of Southern California Race and Equity Center, noted that in 2023 only 13 Black women were athletic directors at Division I institutions—just 3.7% of the 352 DI schools. Six of these women, including Webb, are at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

“The inclusion of HBCUs [by the Vice President] highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating the significant contributions of these institutions to the world of athletics,” said Webb. Norfolk State’s women’s basketball team competed in this year’s NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Tournament.

“Overall, having our female athletes perform on such a big stage not only brings pride to our athletics department, but also helps to elevate the profile of women’s sports and promote gender equality within the athletic arena,” said Webb.

This article was originally published in the Amsterdam News.