When was the last time you felt truly seen and valued for who you are?

How often do you find yourself in spaces where your contributions are genuinely recognized?

These are the critical questions that Jacqie McWilliams, a groundbreaking leader in sports, addresses in Episode 35 of Unlocking the Club.

Living Authentically and Creating Change

Jacqie McWilliams joined us on episode 35 of Unlocking the Club to discuss the importance of visibility and feeling valued, especially for Black women in leadership roles.

As the first woman to serve as the Commissioner of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), Jacqie has navigated her career with a commitment to authenticity and purpose.

Together, we unpacked what it means to “fiercely guard your purpose,” the power of visibility, and the necessity of advocating for your value in spaces that may not always recognize it.

The Power of Visibility

Today, Jacqie McWilliams stands as a symbol of what it means to break barriers and lead with integrity. But her journey was not one of self-promotion—it was about paving the way for others.

Jacqie shared how visibility in leadership roles helps to challenge stereotypes and expand the narrative around what Black women can achieve.

Through her role at the CIAA, Jacqie has made it her mission to ensure that her presence is more than just symbolic. She understands that being seen is not only about personal recognition but about creating opportunities for others who may not have seen themselves in such spaces before.

By being visible, Jacqie is redefining what leadership looks like for the next generation.

Through her reflections, there are a few key steps to cultivating visibility and ensuring that you and others are truly seen:

• Be intentional about your presence: It’s not just about being in the room; it’s about being actively engaged and vocal.
• Advocate for yourself and others: Jacqie emphasizes the importance of knowing your worth and making sure that your contributions—and those of others—are recognized and valued.
• Lift as you climb: As you rise, make sure you are creating pathways for others to follow.

Valuing Your Contributions

We all want to feel valued for the work we do and the contributions we make. As Jacqie moved up in her career, she encountered the all-too-familiar challenges of being a Black woman in leadership—often feeling that her contributions were overlooked or undervalued.

But Jacqie has learned to fiercely advocate for her worth and to create environments where everyone’s contributions are recognized.

Here are some of the ways Jacquie ensures that she and others are valued:

• Know your worth: Jacqie emphasizes the importance of understanding your value and being prepared to advocate for yourself in spaces where your contributions may not be fully recognized.
• Create inclusive environments: In her role at the CIAA, Jacqie has implemented programs that not only promote diversity but also ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and valued.
• Lead with purpose: Being valued is not just about receiving accolades; it’s about knowing that your work and presence make a difference.

Fiercely Guarding Your Purpose

We all have pressures that pull us in different directions, whether in our careers or personal lives. Jacqie’s journey has been no exception.

 She spoke candidly about the obstacles she has faced and how she has remained steadfast in her purpose.

Fiercely guarding your purpose means knowing what drives you and not allowing external pressures to divert you from your path.

Jacqie’s unwavering commitment to her purpose has been her guiding light, helping her to navigate the complexities of her career while staying true to herself.

Here are some key ways Jacqie guards her purpose:

• Stay true to what drives you: Jacqie’s commitment to her purpose has helped her navigate the many challenges of her career.
• Don’t let external pressures sway you: It’s easy to get pulled in different directions, but Jacqie’s focus on her purpose has kept her on the right path.
• Prioritize what matters: For Jacqie, staying true to her purpose means prioritizing what truly matters in her life and career.

Navigating Career and Leadership

Jacqie also talked about the importance of mentorship and sponsorship in her career. She’s benefited from the guidance of mentors who have opened doors for her and supported her journey.

But she’s also committed to mentoring others and ensuring that the next generation of leaders has the support they need to succeed.

Both mentorship and sponsorship are crucial for career advancement, especially for women of color. Jacqie shared how these relationships have been pivotal in her career, providing her with the support, guidance, and opportunities to succeed.

Here are some ways mentorship and sponsorship have impacted Jacqie’s career:

• Advocating for your value and compensation: Mentors and sponsors can help you navigate the complexities of your career and advocate for your worth.
• Opening new opportunities: Sponsors, in particular, can be instrumental in opening doors to new opportunities and helping you climb the corporate ladder.
• Providing a support network: Mentorship and sponsorship provide the support and guidance necessary to succeed in challenging environments.

Conclusion

Jacqie McWilliams’ journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of being seen and valued. Her story is not just about personal success—it’s about creating opportunities for others, advocating for your worth, and fiercely guarding your purpose.

Listen to Episode 35 of Unlocking the Club to hear more from Jacqie McWilliams during our rich conversation. You can also keep up with her work at the CIAA and her efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in sports leadership.