Brand's Keynote at WLS Promotes Hiring Women in Leadership Positions

Over 145 people participated in a very successful Women’s Leadership Symposium in Intercollegiate Athletics in Indianapolis, IN, May 16-17. Myles Brand’s keynote entitled "The Next Step" sparked hope and direction. The following is a snapshot of his speech:

"We have to change the mindset that sees hiring women in leadership positions as a risk. We have to create a climate that celebrates differences as part of the strategy for success.  There is no question that when women do break through the glass ceiling, they are subject to a higher scrutiny. I know you are well aware of that phenomenon. But it is part of the culture that must change before any real progress can be made."

"The next important step, in my opinion, is to work with college presidents, administrators, and on-campus faculty groups to develop clear guidelines for searches. Colleges and universities must do a better job of identifying the available pool of talented individuals and then embrace a search and hiring process that gives women a chance."

"Colleges and universities must end the practice of hiring over an abbreviated time period (sometimes as quickly as a weekend) and begin hiring in a way that is willing to develop talent, not just cannibalize the talent from other programs. You cannot have an open hiring process when your list of candidates comes from the back of an envelope."

"The process of hiring must change. But look what happens when the president becomes involved and appropriate and adequate time is given to an expanded process. You get results like Lisa Love moving into the top athletics position at Arizona State University. Lisa, I am proud to say, is a graduate of the NACWAA Executive Institute, which is sponsored by the NCAA."

"While there is no silver bullet that will put discriminatory hiring practices to rest, as in most other issues of import to higher education, change will depend on leadership from the top. This is critical. I cannot envision a successful scenario that does not start with a strong commitment from presidents and chancellors.  Presidents and chancellors must set expectations and hold those who implement policy accountable for achieving specific goals."

"I applaud all of you for being here today. You are part of the next creative approach to enhancing the opportunities for women and women of color in the leadership of college sports."

"We have made great progress is some significant ways over the last few years. We can be proud of that. But our work is not done."

"There will come a day when we strengthened the staffs in athletics departments by the infusion of new blood, new thinking and new ways of problem solving. That day will come when a critical mass of presidents and chancellors set new expectations for athletics in the same ways they are doing across the rest of the campus."

"That will be the important next step."

"You can be assured that the NCAA will continue to partner with anyone who has a good idea. We will continue to help prepare a strong talent pool. We will develop the Office of Diversity and Inclusion into a viable tool for helping shape the future of athletics. You have my personal assurance that this effort is a high priority. There is nothing more important on my agenda than achieving greater diversity and inclusion within intercollegiate athletics."

"You are critical to the future of college sports, and I encourage you to collaborate with one another, empower each other, develop and use the networks that can assists in creating opportunities. I hope you will continue to come together at moments such as this to draw strength for the future."

The full speech can be downloaded at http://bruno.tiffin.edu/btiell/WLS/Brand%20Keynote%202005.htm