In a story originally featured in the winter 2024 issue of the W&M Alumni Magazine, it was highlighted how participation in Sports lays a strong foundation for women aspiring to high-level leadership roles. According to an EY report, 94% of women in C-suite positions are former athletes, with 52% having played at the university level. The report emphasizes how time spent in sports fosters skills such as a strong work ethic, determination, teamwork, and a competitive spirit which are essential for success in leadership roles.
Athletics can help women level the playing field in Business environments, as noted in a United Nations report on women and gender equity. It highlights that women in sport leadership can challenge traditional views on women’s capabilities as leaders and decision-makers, especially in male-dominated domains. To explore the link between excelling in sports and leadership in the workplace, several William & Mary alumnae who transitioned from athletes to business and nonprofit executives shared their stories.
One such alumna is Mashea Mason Ashton ’96, M.A.Ed. ’97, the founder and CEO of Digital Pioneers Academy in Southeast Washington, D.C. Ashton, a former Tribe soccer team captain, credits her time as an athlete for shaping her leadership skills and resilience. Her journey to William & Mary and her subsequent career in education and nonprofit leadership were influenced by her experience as a soccer player and the lessons learned from overcoming setbacks and working hard to achieve her goals.
Ashton’s dedication to helping low-income and working-class families access quality education led her to found Digital Pioneers Academy, a public charter school with a mission to prepare students for college and careers in computer science. Despite facing challenges, including the loss of students to gun violence, Ashton remains committed to her mission and continues to work towards creating opportunities for her scholars in the digital economy.
Reflecting on her journey from athlete to education entrepreneur, Ashton emphasizes the importance of setting ambitious goals, working hard, and believing in one’s ability to overcome obstacles. Her achievements in leadership roles within the education sector demonstrate the impact that former athletes can have in shaping the future of education and empowering students from diverse backgrounds to reach their full potential.
