LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — A $1.05 million gift will fund career development for women in sports, according to a Wednesday news release from the UNLV Athletics Department.
The Diana Bennett Women's Sports Career Development Program offers an internship program, resume building, career professional development, and a variety of networking and work experience initiatives. The athletics department said the program is part of its “Rebel Up” campaign.
“These student-athletes consistently dedicate a lot of energy and time, both pre- and post-secondary, to becoming leaders in their sport,” Bennett said. “However, we see time and time again that career opportunities in the sports industry are limited for women. The joint goal of the Bennett Family Foundation and UNLV is to help these athletes achieve the opportunities they have been given. It's about making the most of your opportunities and ensuring that you have the tools and support you need to secure a lasting career in your chosen field, not just as an athlete, but as a sportsperson as well. Expert.”
Programming is expected to begin in fall 2024.
Mr. Bennett served as chair of the UNLV Foundation Board of Directors from 2020 to 2022 and has been a director since 2008. She is the third woman to serve as UNLV Foundation board chair since its founding in 1981, according to a news release. She created the UNLV Honors Bennett College, the Bennett Honors Mentoring Scholarship Program, and the UNLV School of Medicine Scholarship.
“Her commitment to UNLV continues to improve and impact the lives of UNLV students while providing outstanding leadership and mentorship to future women leaders,” the news release said.
“We cannot thank Diana Bennett enough for her extraordinary commitment to increasing career opportunities for UNLV female student-athletes as they prepare for life after sports,” said Director of Athletics Eric Harper. Stated. “Diana has been a loyal supporter of UNLV Athletics and the University for many years, and we are grateful for her contributions over the years to the success of our program. This gift is a great gift for UNLV's female student-athletes. This is the first gift dedicated to career development. Donors like Diana Bennett continue to make a difference in the lives of our student-athletes every day, and we are proud of her vision, passion, dedication, and dedication. I especially want to thank you for your love of UNLV Athletics.”