Danette Leighton

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  Danette Leighton is the CEO of the Women’s Sports Foundation (WSF), a powerful advocate for gender equity in sports with a 30-year career spanning significant leadership roles in sports business, marketing, and operations.

  EARLY YEARS

  While specific details about Danette’s early years are not available in the provided information, her career trajectory suggests a longstanding commitment to sports that would eventually lead her to become one of the most influential executives in women’s sports.

  EARLY SUCCESS

  Before assuming her role at the Women’s Sports Foundation, Leighton built an impressive sports business resume serving as Chief Marketing Officer for the Pac-12 Conference, where she managed marketing operations for collegiate championships and pioneered data-driven fan engagement strategies. Her early career also included serving as Vice President of Business Operations for the WNBA’s Sacramento Monarchs and Vice President of Marketing and Brand Development for the NBA’s Sacramento Kings[1][3].

  NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

  • 2022: Appointed CEO of the Women’s Sports Foundation, positioning her to advance women’s participation and leadership in sports through research, advocacy, and community programs[1][3][4].
  • Pre-2022: Served as Chief Marketing Officer for the Pac-12 Conference, managing marketing operations for major collegiate championships[1].
  • Pre-2022: Held executive position as Vice President of Business Operations for the WNBA’s Sacramento Monarchs[1][3].
  • Pre-2022: Served as Vice President of Marketing and Brand Development for the NBA’s Sacramento Kings[1][3].

  REPUTATION

  Danette has earned recognition as a fierce advocate for Title IX and women’s sports equity, known for combining exceptional business acumen with a passionate drive to empower female athletes and leaders. Her versatility across professional and collegiate sports showcases her strategic vision and commitment to inclusion. Industry insiders respect her ability to leverage corporate experience to foster innovation while maintaining unwavering dedication to the cause of gender equality in sports[1][3][4].

  FUTURE GOALS/PLANS

  As CEO of the Women’s Sports Foundation, Danette continues her commitment to the organization’s mission that “all girls, all women, all sports” is not just a slogan but a promise. While the provided information doesn’t specify her precise future plans beyond 2025, her current trajectory suggests continued leadership in advocacy for gender equity across sports, including potentially expanding WSF’s influence and programs to support female athletes at all levels[5].

  References:

  Women’s Sports Foundation Leadership & Staff
  Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment
  Sports Travel Magazine: Women’s Sports Foundation CEO Danette Leighton
  LinkedIn: Danette Leighton
  Women’s Sports Foundation