Senior Woman Leader Association
About the Association
The Senior Woman Leader Association (SWLA) aims to promote the meaningful representation of women in the leadership and management of NAIA sports. The SWLA will work to cultivate a supportive and inclusive space for SWLs to connect, collaborate, develop, and advance while supporting the representation of women’s interests, experiences, and perspectives at the institutional, conference, and national levels.
The SWL role may be held by a female administrator or coach who will serve as a key participant in senior-level management decisions regarding intercollegiate athletics on campus. The primary purpose of the SWL is to provide a visible and identifiable female presence within the athletic department.
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SWLA Leadership Board |
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President Texas A&M University Texarkana |
Vice President Southeastern University |
Vice President-Elect Soka University of America Great Southwest Athletics Conference |
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Rose Howell Cottey College |
Lauren Curley University of Pikeville |
Kelley Seekins Tennessee Wesleyan University |
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Sarah Freeman Bushnell University |
Kris Kistler St. Ambrose University |
Tamasha Bolden Florida National University
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Hannah Miller Indiana Wesleyan University Crossroads League |
Cassandra Olszewski Montana State University - Northern Frontier Conference |
Erica Vonk Northwestern College |
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Mary Hill Voorhees University |
Annie Hart Benedictine College |
Alicia Kemnitz Lindsey Wilson College |
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Katie Arnold Cumberland University |
Haley Holzem Our Lady of the Lake University |
Kim McConaha Indiana University - East
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Jessica Garriga William Carey University |
Taylor Mercado Warner University |
Leanne Nichols Cleary University |
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Bill Popp |
Ricky Dotson |
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SWLA Code of Regulations
Approved by the Association at the 2025 Convention
SWLA Sub Committee Descriptions
Professional Development Subcommittee
The SWLA Professional Development Subcommittee is dedicated to fostering the growth and advancement of Senior Woman Leaders by providing impactful educational opportunities, leadership trainings, and programming. This group ensures SWLs have access to resources that enhance their ability to lead effectively within their institutions, conferences, and the NAIA. Through strategic initiatives, this subcommittee strengthens the pipeline of women leaders in college athletics.
Strategic Planning Subcommittee
The Strategic Planning Subcommittee plays a critical role in shaping the long-term vision of the NAIA Senior Woman Leaders Association by aligning goals with the evolving landscape of college athletics. This group evaluates key initiatives, ensures alignment with NAIA priorities, and develops actionable strategies that enhance the impact of SWLs across the association. Through thoughtful planning and execution, this subcommittee drives meaningful progress for both SWLA membership and the NAIA.
SWL Connect-Groups Subcommittee
The SWL Connect-Groups Subcommittee cultivates a strong and engaged network of Senior Woman Leaders by facilitating meaningful connections and peer-driven support. Through structured discussions, knowledge-sharing, and regional or topical networking groups, this subcommittee ensures that SWLs have access to a collaborative community that fosters professional growth. By strengthening these connections, this group enhances the collective influence of SWLs within the NAIA.
Awards Subcommittee
The Awards Subcommittee is responsible for recognizing and celebrating excellence in NAIA leadership, service, and impact among women within the NAIA. This group will be intentional about submitting nominations for key NAIA awards and awards given by external organizations so outstanding contributions from NAIA members are highlighted on a national stage. By elevating the visibility of exemplary NAIA women leaders, this subcommittee provides greater visibility to women in the NAIA and contributes to shaping the future of NAIA athletics.
