Senior Woman Leaders

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.

SWLA Leadership Board

Brittney Kellar

President

Southeastern University
The Sun Conference

Erica Baldaray

Vice President

Soka University of America Great Southwest Athletics Conference

Annie Hart

Vice President-Elect

Benedictine College
Heart of America Conference

Rose Howell

Cottey College
American Midwest Conference

Lauren Curley

University of Pikeville
Appalachian Athletic Conference

Kelley Seekins

Tennessee Wesleyan University
Appalachian Athletic Conference

Sarah Freeman

Bushnell University
Cascade Collegiate Conference

Kris Kistler

St. Ambrose University
Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference

Tamasha Bolden

Florida National University
Continental Athletics Conference

Hannah Miller

Indiana Wesleyan University Crossroads League

Cassandra Olszewski

Montana State University - Northern Frontier Conference

Erica Vonk

Northwestern College
Great Plains Athletic Conference

Mary Hill

Voorhees University
HBCU Athletic Conference

Alicia Kemnitz

Lindsey Wilson College
Mid-South Conference

Katie Arnold

Cumberland University
Mid-South Conference

Haley Holzem

Our Lady of the Lake University
Red River Athletics Conference

Kim McConaha

Indiana University - East
River States Conference

Jessica Garriga

William Carey University
Southern States Athletic Conference

Taylor Mercado

Warner University
The Sun Conference

Leanne Nichols

Cleary University
Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference

Bill Popp

CCA Representative

Commissioner
Appalachian Athletic Conference

Ricky Dotson

ADA Board Representative

Athletics Director
Texas Wesleyan University
Red River Athletics Conference

SWLA Sub Committee Descriptions

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.

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.

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.

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.

Senior Woman Leader Association