BOWIE, MD — Bowie State University Interim Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation Dr. Jolisa Williams has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Women Leaders in Sports Resilience Award, one of the organization's prestigious BSN Sports Awards recognizing exceptional leadership across the sports industry.

Williams is one of several distinguished leaders who will be honored during the 2026 Women Leaders in Sports National Convention, Oct. 12-14, in Chicago. The Resilience Award recognizes individuals whose perseverance, courage and leadership have inspired others while making a lasting impact on their organizations and the collegiate athletics profession.

The 2026 Women Leaders in Sports award recipients represent excellence at every level of sports, honoring visionary executives, innovators and emerging leaders who continue to move the industry forward through resilience, bold leadership and service.

"I accept this recognition in honor of Dr. Clyde Doughty, Jr., whose leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to Bowie State University continue to inspire our work each and every day," Williams said. "His passing left a tremendous void, and he is deeply missed. I am especially grateful for the confidence he placed in me, as I would not be in this position without his guidance, support, and belief in my abilities."

Williams has provided steadfast leadership for Bowie State Athletics, championing student-athlete success, competitive excellence and institutional growth while navigating challenges with integrity, vision and purpose. Her commitment to the university and its student-athletes has helped strengthen one of the nation's premier NCAA Division II athletics programs.

More than 1,400 leaders from across the sports industry are expected to attend the Women Leaders in Sports National Convention, where the 2026 award recipients will be recognized for their contributions to advancing the profession and shaping the future of sports leadership.

For the full list of award recipients, click here.

More information on Bowie State athletics and its 14 varsity sports teams is available at bsubulldogs.com.