Engagement Insider
Just 13 years ago, Kimberly Ford accepted an internship with the NCAA. Ford, now with a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in sports management from Baylor University, works for the NCAA as the Director of Minority Inclusion. For her, it is about supporting an inclusive environment for student-athletes, coaches, and administrators from different backgrounds and giving back.
PE: How long have you been in your current profession?
Kimberly Ford: 13 years - 3 as Director of Minority Inclusion.
PE: Did you always see yourself doing this job, or something similar?
Ford: No, I originally wanted to be a dentist. It was not until I started tutoring student-athletes that I realized that I had to give back to the profession that made a difference in my life that I choose a different career path.
PE: What led you into your profession?
Ford: An opportunity for an internship with the NCAA.
PE: What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
Ford: Having the ability to effectuate change.
PE: On the other side, what has been the most difficult obstacle to overcome in your job?
Ford: Realizing that not everyone is a supporter of building inclusive cultures and the fact there will be some days where you will not be successful in the challenges you are faced with, but resolving not to give up.
PE: Is it tough being a woman in what is perceived as a “man’s job’’?
Ford: If you are talking about sports, I would say no, because I am good at what I do.
PE: Have you encountered any problems in doing your job, simply because you’re a woman?
Ford: Not really, I have tried to be good at building relationships and at the core that is what makes driving and impacting change something that is able to be accomplished.
PE: What advice would you give to young women trying to get into this field?
Ford: Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek out a mentor, and participate in professional development opportunities.
PE: If you weren’t in your current position, what do you think you would be doing?
Ford: I am not sure; I love my current work. However, I would love to be a millionaire so I could still make a difference but choose when I get to do it.