Investing in Women's Sports

 

The Ohio State Sports and Society Initiative presents “Investing in Women’s Sports.” This panel brings together leaders shaping the next era of women’s athletics in Ohio and across the U.S. Join Allison Howard (Cleveland WNBA, President of Business Operations), Thayer Lavielle (Managing Director, The Collective), and Dawn Stewart (Director of Strategic Partnerships, Greater Columbus Sports Commission) for a conversation on the business case—and the community impact—of investing in women’s sports. Moderated by Liv Rinaldi (Sports & Society Initiative Editorial Intern and The Lantern Sports Editor), the discussion will explore growth opportunities in teams, media, sponsorship, and infrastructure, and what it takes to build lasting momentum.

Ohio is poised for a major moment in women’s sports. Cleveland’s WNBA expansion team is set to begin play in 2028, and Columbus will host the 2027 NCAA Women’s Final Four and the 2027 NCAA Volleyball Championships. The panel will discuss how these milestones can accelerate long-term growth, expand opportunities for athletes and fans, and attract meaningful investment across the state and the country.