Patty Medina, a trailblazer in the world of athletics and a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, was recently honored at the Washington Spirit’s Hispanic Heritage Night.
Held during the Spirit's match on October 13, 2024, the event celebrated the rich contributions of the Hispanic community and featured Medina for her impact both in sports and beyond.
Patty Medina, the Associate Athletic Director of Student-Athlete Development and Inclusive Excellence at American University, was recognized for her leadership in empowering Latino athletes and her extensive work as the Athletics Diversity and Inclusion Designee (ADID). Over the past decade, she has cultivated a profound legacy of mentorship and advocacy, particularly for underrepresented communities in sports. Her efforts include founding the Hooper Mentality Foundation and Latinx En Athletics, two initiatives dedicated to career development, empowerment, and mental health awareness for athletes, with a focus on Latino and Latina communities.
In addition to being celebrated at Hispanic Heritage Night, Medina was featured in the Washington Spirit's District Diaries series, which shines a light on influential Hispanic and Latino figures in the D.C. area during Hispanic Heritage Month. In her feature, Medina shared her journey as a Mexican immigrant who grew up in a tight-knit community, her early challenges in navigating the sports industry, and her determination to be a voice for others who face similar obstacles. She discussed the importance of representation and how her work at American University aligns with the Spirit's values of fostering inclusion both on and off the field.
Through her role at AU, Medina has implemented numerous cultural initiatives, from Hispanic Heritage and Black History Month game nights to Pride and AAPI celebrations, reinforcing her dedication to creating inclusive environments for student-athletes. Her presence at the Washington Spirit’s Hispanic Heritage Night not only celebrated her achievements but also highlighted the importance of diversity in all areas of professional and collegiate sports.
The District Diaries series, available on the Washington Spirit's website, continues throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, offering inspiring stories like Medina's that reflect the vibrant diversity of the nation's capital. You can read Patty Medina's full feature and learn more about her ongoing contributions to sports and advocacy here.
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