By D'Joumbarey A.Moreau
The Connecticut Sun is ready to shine a spotlight on four extraordinary women at their annual Women of Inspiration Night, presented by Post University. This special event, taking place on August 23rd as the Sun host the Chicago Sky at Mohegan Sun Arena, promises a night of recognition, celebration, and community. The honorees—Teresa Velez, Dina Sears-Graves, Esther Wallace, and Lisa Salters—each represent different fields but share a common thread: they’ve made significant impacts in their respective industries and are role models to countless others.
From groundbreaking initiatives in mental health advocacy to redefining the culture of women’s sports, these four honorees are blazing their own trails, embodying the very essence of what it means to be an inspiration.
Teresa Velez: Champion for Mental Health and Community
Officer Teresa Velez of the Hartford Police Department is not just a first responder; she’s a first line of defense for mental health. As the Crisis Intervention Team coordinator, Velez goes beyond the badge, offering critical support and resources to both officers and community members in need. Known for her hands-on approach—whether it’s buying clothes for victims or pushing cars out of the snow—Velez’s commitment to mental health and community well-being makes her a beacon of hope in challenging times. “It’s not just about serving the community,” Velez says. “It’s about showing that someone cares, even in the smallest ways.”
Esther Wallace: The Creative Force Bridging Women’s Sports and Fashion
Esther Wallace turned her passion for design into a cultural movement. The founder of Playa Society, Wallace went from a reluctant basketball player to a Division I athlete, and eventually combined her love for sports and creativity into a business that has set the standard for women’s sportswear. Her WNBA merchandise collaborations have become iconic, worn by athletes and fans alike across the globe. “Basketball gave me the platform, but design is where I create the culture,” says Wallace, whose brand grew out of a basement apartment in Boston to influence the sportswear landscape worldwide.
Dina Sears-Graves: Leading Change, One Community at a Time
As President & CEO of the United Way of Southeastern Connecticut, Dina Sears-Graves has spent over three decades driving positive change in the nonprofit sector. Under her leadership, United Way has more than doubled its community investments, delivering over 89,000 services and distributing 1.8 million meals last year alone. “Collaboration is key,” Sears-Graves emphasizes. “No single organization can do it all, but when we come together, we build a community where everyone has the chance to thrive.” Her visionary approach and unwavering commitment to equity have made her a cornerstone of community progress in New London County.
Lisa Salters: Trailblazing Reporter and Sports Broadcasting Icon
With a career spanning over 30 years, Lisa Salters is the definition of versatility in sports journalism. As the sideline reporter for ESPN’s Monday Night Football and a fixture in NBA coverage, Salters has set a high bar for sports reporting. Her dedication and storytelling ability earned her the prestigious Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Personality/Reporter in 2023. “It’s about more than just the game,” says Salters. “It’s about connecting with people and bringing their stories to life.” From her days as a college basketball player to becoming one of the most respected voices in sports media, Salters continues to inspire the next generation of broadcasters.
A Night of Inspiration and Community
The Women of Inspiration Night isn’t just about honoring remarkable women; it’s about fostering a sense of community and empowerment. The event will feature giveaways, including a Connecticut Sun lunchbox for the first 2,500 fans, and a pregame reception where attendees can hear from these inspiring women directly. The night also includes Post University’s ‘Threes for Degrees’ scholarship award, with two students receiving $7,500 each toward their education.
Jen Rizzotti, Connecticut Sun President, perfectly captures the spirit of the evening: “These women have done more than just excel in their fields; they’ve used their platforms to uplift others and drive change. We’re proud to recognize their achievements and share their stories.”
Whether you’re a basketball fan or simply looking for inspiration, Women of Inspiration Night at Mohegan Sun Arena promises an evening of powerful stories and lasting memories. Join the Connecticut Sun on August 23rd as they celebrate the accomplishments of these extraordinary women who continue to push the boundaries in their respective fields.
Comentarios