Game Changers

Game Changers Summit: Strengthening the Body AND Mind in Sports Culture

The White Sox held Game Changers Summit: Strengthening the Body AND Mind in Sports Culture, presented by Modelo Especial and Saint Xavier University, on Friday, September 22. Held in partnership with Women In Sports + Entertainment (WISE), this season's Game Changers space brought together mental health professionals from across the sports industry to discuss the pressures of performance both on and off the field.

The event featured conversations surrounding the subjects of “strong” athletes/professionals, as well as how we can cultivate a sports and modern-day workplace culture that prioritizes mental health. Moderated by WISE Chicago President Dinai Yelverton, the panel discussion aimed to destigmatize the conversation around mental health by diving into its many layers and complexities, including performance, expectations, pressure, diversity and inclusivity, among other subject areas.

The event included a networking reception, photo opportunities and further interactive experiences. All attendees received a Sox swag bag.

All proceeds from ticket sales benefited NAMI Chicago, a nonprofit organization that promotes community wellness, breaks down barriers to mental health care and provides support/expertise for families, professionals, and individuals across Chicagoland and beyond.

Featured Panelists:

• Cari Roccaro, Current Player on Chicago Red Stars/Co-host of “Butterfly Road” Podcast
• Dr. Jeff Fishbein, Sport Psychologist at Chicago White Sox
• Carla Suber, Director of Wellness at Chicago Bears
• Michael Wiley Jr., Director of Mental Performance at Chicago Bears

Game Changers Summit: Empowering Voices for Social Impact

The White Sox held Game Changers Summit: Empowering Voices for Social Impact, presented by Saint Xavier University and Modelo Especial, on Tuesday, September 27. The event featured a discussion with established and emerging leaders influencing change through sports.

Moderated by Chicago sports reporter Dionne Miller, the conversation covered topics, including the latest success and challenges related to diversity, equity and inclusion in sports, the evolving landscape of people and culture in the sports business, the importance of allyship, and the road ahead for advancing the DEI game forward.

In addition to a panel discussion, the event included a networking reception, photo opportunities, behind-the-scenes tours and interactive experiences.

Featured Panelists:

• Dionne Miller, sports reporter at ABC 7 Chicago/host at ESPN 1000
• Billy Bean, Senior Vice President, DEI at Major League Baseball
• Ishwara Glassman Chrein, President at Chicago Fire Football Club
• Maria Sanchez, Senior Associate AD/Chief Diversity & Inclusion at Northwestern University