Simmons University Convenes Powerhouse of Industry Leaders to Help Shape Future of Women’s Sports Education

Simmons University today announced the formation of a new Women’s Sports Management Advisory Board, bringing together a distinguished group of industry leaders to support and shape the future of women’s sports business education. The Advisory Board will provide strategic guidance, real-world perspectives and industry-relevant learning to enhance the University’s graduate-level Master of Science in Management (MSM) program and its groundbreaking concentration in Business and Leadership in Women’s Sports.

Simmons’ MSM is the first graduate program in the nation dedicated to the business of women’s professional sports. One of the fastest-growing industries worldwide, women’s sports are projected to reach $2.35 billion in global revenue by 2025 — a 240% increase since 2022.

“The rise of women’s sports is transforming the global sports industry, and Simmons is proud to prepare graduates to lead in this rapidly growing field,” said Dr. Lynn Perry Wooten, President of Simmons University. “I want to thank our advisory board members for sharing their passion and expertise, and for translating their industry experience into meaningful learning experiences for our students.”

The Advisory Board features executives from across the sports industry – including professional sports, media and business operations – who are deeply invested in the growth of women’s sports. Members include:

Katie Arkins – VP, Head of Programming Strategy, Bleacher Report + B/R W Sports

Marcell Bhangoo – Senior Vice President, Partnerships and Alumni Relations, Boston Red Sox

Terri Cooper – Senior Advisor, Board Member and Investor, Simmons University

Kassia Davis – Founder, KADA; Owner & Executive Chair, P.F. Flyers; Trustee, New Balance Foundation

Lorrie-Ann (LA) Diaz – Vice President, Business Communications & Social Responsibility, Miami Heat

Laura Doran – Former Operations Director, San Diego Wave & Portland Thorns FC NWSL; Customer Success Manager, Professional Sports, Teamworks

Jen Flynn – Senior Vice President, Business Affairs & General Counsel, Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL)

Venessa Hutchinson – Senior Director, Football Coaches & Executives, Klutch Sports Group

Meg Montgomery – Senior Director, Head of Central Integrated Marketing, DraftKings

Sara Toussaint – Co-CEO, TMJ Women’s Football; Co-Owner, NC Courage & Querétaro FC

“The momentum behind women’s sports is transforming the entire industry, creating one of the most exciting growth opportunities in the global sports landscape,” said Advisory Board Member Laura Doran ‘09. “This is a defining moment to invest in the expertise, innovation and leadership that will shape its future.”

Rooted in core sports management principles, Simmons’ Business and Leadership in Women’s Sports concentration prepares students to thrive in women’s sports and the larger professional sports industry, opening doors to careers in major leagues including the PWHL, NWSL, WNBA, MLB, NHL and NFL. Coursework explores finance, marketing, entrepreneurship and leadership through the lens of women’s professional sports, while emphasizing equity, innovation and sustainable growth.

“Simmons is honored to be at the forefront of the women’s sports business education movement,” said Simmons School of Management Dean Astrid Sheil. “I’m so grateful for the expertise and commitment of our Advisory Board members, who are helping to ensure our students have the opportunity to learn from professionals who understand not only where the industry is today, but where it’s headed next.”

This MSM program builds on Simmons’ long-standing excellence in management education. The university’s School of Management, founded in 1974 as the world’s first MBA program designed specifically for women, became a global model for advancing women in business. The MSM program continues to emphasize gender equity and inclusive leadership as students advance their professional goals.

“Women’s sports are no longer an emerging opportunity; they’re a powerful growth engine. As investment and cultural relevance reach new heights, we need leaders who understand both the business and the unique dynamics of the space,” said Advisory Board member Kassia Davis.

For more information about the Master of Science in Management and the Business and Leadership in Women’s Sports concentration, visit: https://www.simmons.edu/graduate/academic-programs/graduate-and-certificate-programs/management