Three UK Athletics staff members were part of the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards Luncheon held by the UK Women’s Forum
Three UK Athletics Staff Members Honored at the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards Luncheon: Celebrating Women’s Contributions in Leadership
The University of Kentucky’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion extends beyond its academic programs and reaches into the athletic department. This was exemplified recently at the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards Luncheon, where three outstanding staff members from UK Athletics were honored for their contributions to fostering leadership, inclusivity, and empowerment in their respective fields. The luncheon, organized by the UK Women’s Forum, serves as a platform to recognize and celebrate women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made lasting impacts on the University of Kentucky community.
The Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards Luncheon holds a special place in the hearts of the UK community. Named after Sarah Bennett Holmes, the first woman to be appointed to the University of Kentucky’s Board of Trustees, the event honors individuals who embody the principles of leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing gender equity. Each year, it highlights the achievements of women who have shown an unwavering dedication to uplifting others and making tangible, positive change within their professions. This year, the recognition of three UK Athletics staff members is not only a celebration of their achievements but also a reflection of the growing impact that women in sports administration and leadership roles are having on the athletic department and the broader university community.
The Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards: A Celebration of Women’s Leadership
The Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards Luncheon is a prestigious annual event at the University of Kentucky that showcases the remarkable work of women in various sectors of the university. The awards were established in 1998 to honor those who have contributed to advancing women’s rights and opportunities on campus and beyond. The luncheon serves as both a recognition ceremony and a gathering where the community can reflect on the challenges women continue to face in leadership roles, while also celebrating the progress that has been made.
The UK Women’s Forum, which organizes the event, provides a collaborative space for women at the university to share resources, offer mentorship, and advocate for positive change. As part of their mission to support gender equity and leadership development, the forum has made it a priority to elevate women’s voices in all fields, including academics, research, athletics, and administration. The Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards, therefore, serve as a way to highlight the significant contributions that women have made not only to their professional fields but also to their communities.
This year’s luncheon was particularly special, as it saw three remarkable staff members from UK Athletics being honored for their exceptional work in advancing the mission of the athletic department while supporting women’s leadership in sports. Their involvement in this year’s Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards Luncheon highlights the integral role that women are playing in shaping the future of collegiate athletics.
The Three UK Athletics Staff Members Honored
The three UK Athletics staff members who were recognized at the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards Luncheon have each made significant contributions to the university’s athletic programs. Through their leadership, mentorship, and commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, they have been at the forefront of efforts to ensure that UK Athletics remains a leader in promoting diversity, gender equity, and empowering women within collegiate sports.
1. Sara Martin – Senior Associate Athletics Director for Administration
Sara Martin’s role as the Senior Associate Athletics Director for Administration places her at the heart of UK Athletics’ organizational and administrative structure. In this capacity, Martin oversees several key functions, including compliance, student-athlete support services, and human resources. Her leadership has been instrumental in promoting a culture of inclusion and respect within the department.
Martin is widely recognized for her advocacy of gender equity in collegiate athletics. Over the years, she has worked diligently to ensure that women’s sports at Kentucky receive the same level of support and recognition as their male counterparts. Whether it’s securing funding for women’s teams, fostering mentorship opportunities for female athletes and coaches, or providing leadership training, Martin has consistently shown a commitment to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for women in sports.
Her influence extends beyond her administrative responsibilities. Martin has been a vocal advocate for leadership development among women within the athletic department, encouraging female staff members to take on greater roles and helping them navigate career advancement. She has also been an active mentor for young women interested in pursuing careers in sports administration. As a key figure in UK Athletics, Martin’s dedication to supporting women in sports is a perfect reflection of the values celebrated by the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards.
2. Sarah McGinnis – Director of Women’s Basketball Operations
Sarah McGinnis has played an integral role in the success of the University of Kentucky women’s basketball team. As the Director of Women’s Basketball Operations, McGinnis is responsible for overseeing the logistics and daily operations of the team. This includes everything from managing team travel arrangements to coordinating community engagement initiatives and working with the athletic training staff to ensure the athletes’ well-being.
McGinnis’s impact extends beyond her administrative role. She is a tireless advocate for the success of female student-athletes, striving to create an environment where they can excel both on and off the court. McGinnis is known for her ability to build strong relationships with players, coaches, and staff, creating a supportive atmosphere that encourages teamwork and personal growth.
Her commitment to the women’s basketball program goes far beyond game-day operations; she also works to provide leadership opportunities for women within the team. McGinnis serves as a mentor and role model for many of the young women who pass through the program, offering guidance on both their athletic and academic journeys. Her work ensures that UK women’s basketball is not only successful on the court but also serves as a positive example of leadership, integrity, and community within the broader landscape of collegiate athletics.
3. Katie Ell – Senior Associate Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Development
Katie Ell has made a lasting impact at UK Athletics through her role as the Senior Associate Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Development. In this position, Ell oversees the academic success, personal development, and career readiness of UK’s student-athletes, with a particular focus on ensuring that they are fully supported during their time at the university. Under Ell’s leadership, the department has developed programs that address the academic, emotional, and social needs of student-athletes, while also equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in life after college.
Ell has been an advocate for promoting gender equity and inclusion in athletics, focusing on providing resources that specifically support women in sports. Her work includes creating mentorship programs, offering career development workshops, and organizing events that emphasize the importance of leadership, empowerment, and personal growth for female student-athletes.
Ell’s commitment to holistic student-athlete development has made her an invaluable part of the UK Athletics family. By prioritizing the well-being and success of student-athletes, Ell has helped to create an environment where young women can flourish both academically and athletically. Her leadership exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards, and her contributions continue to have a profound impact on the lives of countless female student-athletes at the University of Kentucky.
The Broader Impact of the Awards Luncheon on UK Athletics
The recognition of these three outstanding women serves as an inspiration to the entire UK Athletics department. It reinforces the importance of leadership, mentorship, and dedication to empowering women within sports. By honoring these individuals, the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards Luncheon highlights the integral role that women play in shaping the future of collegiate athletics and provides a platform to amplify their voices.
As UK Athletics continues to grow and evolve, the department remains committed to fostering an environment of inclusion, respect, and equity. The recognition of these staff members is part of a larger effort to promote gender equality and ensure that women have equal access to leadership opportunities in sports. The achievements of Martin, McGinnis, and Ell serve as a testament to the positive change that is happening within UK Athletics and beyond.
