Dream Team: Lamarr Pottinger
Lamarr Pottinger is the current Associate Director of Leadership Development with the NCAA. Before that, he was an Assistant Athletic Director at Texas Tech University. He received his BS in kinesiology at Eastern Illinois University.
WE: What drew you to Winning Edge in the beginning?
Lamarr: The mission of Winning Edge is what drew me to this organization. As a minority male in sport, I want to help serve the next generation of leaders by empowering them to excel in the sport industry.
WE: How did you become part of the Advisory Committee?
Lamarr: I expressed my interest to Corinne to serve in any capacity. I was fortunate enough for her to reach back out to me to serve on the Advisory Committee. Evaluating my strengths and experience, I believe I am a great fit for my role.
WE: Why is diversity important to you?
Lamarr: Diversity is important to me because I truly believe that the more diverse minds, backgrounds, and experiences you can bring to the “table” the better your organization or team will be. Diversity however is just the beginning. Practicing inclusive approaches with the different people you have in your organization is where true success happens.
WE: What's the most meaningful or memorable part of your career?
Lamarr: The most memorable part of my career thus far was when I served as a facilitator for the NCAA Student-Athlete Leadership Forum. Not only did it catapult my career trajectory, but I was able to inspire, influence, and impact over 30 student-athletes through leadership development sessions and authentic relationships. This experience truly established my purpose in life.
WE: What's one tip you'd give to a company considering Gigs for Game Changers?
Lamarr: Hire and develop the talent we have within the Game Changers’ network. WE have some of the most talented individuals attend our programs annually. We don’t want you to just hire these individuals, we want you to develop them into the elite workers that they have the potential to be. Your investment into their growth and development will benefit your organization substantially.
Helena Wu is a Duke University 2020 graduate with a BS in biology. She is currently pursuing a Master of Management in Clinical Informatics at Duke University School of Medicine, and is a competitive, record-holding powerlifter in USA Powerlifting.
