Diversity in Sports, with Maritza McClendon

In this episode, nonprofit consultant Jess Cooper sits down with 2004 Olympic silver medalist Maritza McClendon to discuss diversity in sports. They break down how Maritza’s experience growing up as a black female athlete gave her a platform to help give athletes of this generation a voice. They address:

• How Maritza’s involvement in swimming has evolved since becoming the first black woman to make a US Olympic swim team and medal.
• The importance of integrating DEI efforts throughout an organization.
• The misconceptions about DEI in sports representation.
• Creating safe spaces for all members of a sports community.
• Being an advocate for and giving voice to the current generation of black athletes.