WOODBURY ANNOUNCED AS SWL FOR BETHANY COLLEGE ATHLETICS

Lindsborg, Kan. – The Bethany College Athletic Department has announced Deedra Woodbury as the Senior Women's Leader (SWL) for the department. 

Woodbury, entering her first year as head coach of the Bethany College Volleyball team, had this to say regarding her new title: "I'm honored and excited for the opportunity to step into this leadership role at Bethany College. I look forward to developing young women beyond the court, helping them reach their full potential and empowering them to lead with confidence in the next stage of their lives." 

In 2021, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) approved the Senior Woman Leader distinction to promote meaningful representation of women in the leadership and management of intercollegiate sports on NAIA campuses. By August 1, 2023, the NAIA required member institutions to develop and fully integrate the senior woman leader role into their athletics department structure. However, the Kansas Collegiate Athletics Conference (KCAC) fully integrated the SWL role within conference institutions during the prior academic year. 

"I am thrilled to welcome Coach Deedra Woodbury as our Senior Women's Leader," said Dean of Athletics, Laura Moreno. "Not only has Coach Woodbury done tremendous work with our volleyball program, she has also continually shown exceptional leadership qualities that inspire growth, accountability, and empowerment of others. I look forward to Coach Woodbury joining our Athletics Leadership Team and expanding her impact within the Athletic Department and institution." 

The Senior Women's Leader supports the Dean of Athletics, Assistant Athletic Director, Department of Athletics, and Bethany College in its mission, vision, and values. Working closely with the Dean of Athletics and Assistant Athletic Director, the SWL is a member of Athletics Administration and will provide a female presence with whom staff and student-athletes can communicate. In addition, this position will work with the Dean of Athletics and Assistant Athletic Director on Title IX compliance, gender equity, strategic planning, and other administrative leadership functions within the department, as well as student-athlete and staff development. The SWL participates with the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference SWL Group to grow and enhance its role.