OCCAC Gives Gift of Leadership Development

The inaugural OCCAC Student-Athlete Leadership Conference was hosted by Cuyahoga Community College earlier this month. Student-athletes from around the conference gathered for a day full of opportunities to elevate their leadership skills. In total, more than 45 student-athletes, coaches and administrators from across the state listened to speakers on a multitude of topics.

“The event provided an opportunity for our student-athletes who have been identified as leaders on their campus to interact and hear from professionals on various topics,” said Tony Cipollone, executive director of athletics, wellness and recreation at Cuyahoga Community College. “Networking and connections took place, allowing the athletes to see each other and have comfort in knowing that they face the same obstacles no matter the name of the team on their uniform.” 

Featured speakers included:
Dr. Christopher Parker, NJCAA president
Pete DuBois, mental health expert
Dr. Michael Baston, Cuyahoga CC president
Kevin Brown, FBI supervisory special agent
Kristin Williams, Mid-American Conference senior associate commissioner
Bob Markovich, John Maxwell Group executive director

The student-athletes also participated in several activities designed to foster engagement with members from other schools.

“It was an unbelievable day of sharing and fellowship with great speakers, all of whom donated their time to the event. We hope it will turn into an annual event.”