Dream Team: Vince Pierson
Vince Pierson is a DEI expert who has been featured in Forbes and Sports Business Journal. He was formerly the Head of Diversity & Inclusion at Minor League Baseball and received his Master degree in Sports Business Management from the University of Central Florida.
WE: What drew you to Winning Edge in the beginning?
Vince: I was drawn to the Winning Edge Leadership Academy because of their intentionality in connecting with and student-athletes who identify as Black and other people of color. The sports industry can be such a powerful driver of diversity, equity and inclusion, but that power has to be activated by people who care and want to drive positive social change. The Winning Edge does that and that’s what attracts me.
WE: How did you become part of the Advisory Committee?
Vince: When Winning Edge informed their network that they were seeking Advisory Committee members, I knew this was something I wanted to support on another level.
WE: Why is diversity important to you?
Vince: Diversity is important to me because it should be about advocating and making room for people who have been and continue to be excluded. It’s also about understanding history and foundation of that exclusion… the nuance. In the end, everyone should be supportive of creating environments where difference is welcomed and embraced.
WE: What's the most meaningful or memorable part of your career?
Vince: There are so many that come to mind… I’d have to say launching and maintaining the MiLB FIELD Program has been one of the top highlights of my career. Watching careers begin and relationships blossom in the midst of a program that achieves the goals of the
WE: What's one tip you'd give to a company considering Gigs for Game Changers?
Vince: The Gig-Work model for organizations presents an opportunity to connect with talent based on a specific need. You’re creating opportunities for next-gen leaders to gain experience and exposure, but most importantly you’re solving real problems while doing it. It’s a true win-win scenario.
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.
