Talking Sports, Hillary Clinton and making a difference

The two things don't typically go together: women and sports, but there I was, Kathy's Sports Korner Blogger at the Lead On Watermark Silicon Valley Conference for Women. Hillary Clinton headlined the list of remarkable speakers, each a superstar in their respective fields. Be it politics, technology, manufacturing, marketing, engineering, literature, science, health, medicine or numerous other fields, the women  were outstanding examples of what today's workforce truly looks like.  And the theme in the massive room of more than five thousand women was clearly one of hope.

I was there supporting an amazing woman, Celia Tejada, who not only heads the design division of Restoration Hardware, is the owner of Tejada Wines but also finds time to give back to her community. As the President of the Board of Directors for the Imagine Bus Project, Tejada is enabling incarcerated youth to express themselves through art. It is a passion for creativity she nurtured in her native village of Ruerrero, Spain. Tejada is spreading her love as wings of freedom for those who don't have them.
How this relates to sports is through another panel member in the session, Joanne Pasternack. In her eight season as the director of the 49ers Foundation, she is among those who put athletes in positions where they can use their influence to help others. In 2014, the foundation donated $4.6 million to Bay area charities. But even more impressive than the funds, are the stories Pasternack shared of 49er players suiting up in pink cleats to support Breast Cancer and actually going to the Juvenile Hall and speaking to the troubled youth. Hearing it from the source, from well known players who have encountered their own troubles with the law and chose to work hard instead of taking the easy route and made something of their lives. That is how athletes can turn their fame and influence into success that is measured beyond money and awards. Tejada and Pasternack and the hundreds of speakers who shared the day in hopes of inspiring others are doing their part and encouraging us all to do the same.  They aren't just talking about it, they are doing it.
Yesterday, Stephen Curry visited the White House, not as the NBA's three point champion or potential MVP, but for his work in the fight against Malaria. His foundation donates nets for every three-point shot. He also encourages other players to make similar donations.  And in doing so hopes to also influence others to become involved, and that is yet another reason why he is becoming the face of the NBA.