Empowering Women in Sports: Chicago Bears’ Inspiring Training Camp Celebration

In a groundbreaking move, the Chicago Bears recently hosted their first-ever Celebrating Women and Girls in Sports Day at their 2025 Training Camp by LRS. The Chicago Bears Women’s Advisory Board organized the event to empower female fans, athletes, and professionals.

The day brimmed with inspiring activities. One standout was the Women in Sports Media Career Expo, which gave 50 local college students invaluable networking opportunities, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops.

The Career Expo: A Stepping Stone for Future Leaders

The career expo brought together 50 young women from colleges like the University of Illinois, DePaul, Loyola, Northwestern, Columbia College, and Chicago State. These students spent over three hours connecting with professionals in sports media, validating their dreams of working in the industry.

The expo kicked off with a professional headshot session. Afterward, students joined a networking session with members of the Bears business operations staff and the Women’s Advisory Board.

Networking with Industry Leaders

The networking session featured leaders such as Karen Murphy (executive vice president of stadium development & chief operating officer), Tanesha Wade (executive vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion & chief impact officer), and Meka White Morris (executive vice president of revenue & chief business officer). Students jumped at the chance to chat with these executives and soaked up insights for their own futures.

Panel Discussions and Workshops

After networking, the program moved into a panel discussion. Advisory board member and longtime FOX32 Chicago general manager Sheila Oliver hosted, with panelists like ESPN journalist Courtney Cronin and Bears director of corporate communications Micaeh Johnson.

The panelists shared stories and advice, offering a real look at the industry.

Hands-On Workshops

The expo also featured three hands-on workshops led by Bears staff:

• Storytelling Through Social Media: Hosted by Bears director of social media Nicole Zimmer and social media coordinator Chidera Udeh.
• Storytelling Through Branding and Marketing: Led by Bears vice president of fan development and brand marketing Sarah Smith and ESPN play-by-play sales manager Lindsay Adams.
• Storytelling Through Broadcasting: Hosted by Bears content presenter Jasmine Baker and FOX32 reporter Cassie Carlson.

These workshops gave students practical skills and a glimpse into different corners of sports media. It was empowering, no doubt, and maybe a little overwhelming in the best way.

Fireside Chat with Stacey Dales

The day rolled on with a fireside chat led by Jasmine Baker, featuring NFL Network senior national reporter Stacey Dales. Dales, who recently made history as the first woman in the Bears’ preseason TV booth, opened up about her journey and shared some powerful advice.

Her words really struck a chord with everyone in the room.

Recognition and Empowerment

In a surprise twist, Bears chairman George H. McCaskey and President and CEO Kevin Warren stepped up to honor Dales. They gave her a framed set of photos from her first time in the broadcast booth—an emotional, empowering moment for everyone there.

Additional Activities and Celebrations

Outside Halas Hall, the Bears curated a female-focused day at training camp. Attendees found custom hat and patch pressing pop-ups, a permanent jewelry booth, and exclusive Bears merchandise with discounts on women’s apparel.

DJ Francesca Eva spun the tunes, which kept the energy up and the vibe electric.

Women-Owned Food Vendors

The Bears brought in women-owned food vendors like Savory Crust, Sporty’s, My Funnel Truck, and Lovely Lemon. These vendors served up delicious food and showed everyone what following your dreams can look like.

Inclusive Invitations and Support

The Bears invited groups like the Chicago Stars, WISE Chicago, CMSA Women’s Flag teams, TOGETHXR, Athletes Unlimited Softball League, Riddell, Beyond the Ball, Girls in the Game, Girls Opportunity Alliance, League of their Own, and high school girls flag football teams to watch practice.

The Bears’ football operations staff, including coaches and players, joined in the celebrations too. They wore custom t-shirts and gave shoutouts to their GOAT female athletes—adding a personal touch that made the day feel even more special.

Community and Future Impact

The Chicago Bears’ Celebrating Women and Girls in Sports Day wasn’t just another event. It felt like a real push toward more inclusivity and empowerment in the sports world.

They gave young women a space to connect, learn, and find inspiration. Honestly, that’s something every NFL team should think about doing.