JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Ivana Rich, the first female athletic director at Edward Waters University and the 10th in the school’s history is making waves in a role traditionally dominated by men.
“I would say it means that we are supporting women. We’re championing women and we’re creating spaces for women to thrive in this society,” Rich said when asked about her groundbreaking position.
Rich’s approach to leadership is distinct. She emphasized authenticity and connection with the new generation of student-athletes.
“I always say that when I took this role I was going to do it my way,” she shared. “They have to be able to relate to you, but they have to know that you’re authentic and real.”
Rich is one of only three Black female athletic directors among Florida’s 27 NCAA members, joining the ranks of Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Courtney Lovely Evans and Florida A&M University’s Angela Suggs.
“We want to definitely open the window or send down the elevator and bring others that will come,” Suggs said.
Both leaders recognize their roles as models for aspiring women.
“Definitely follow the idea that you can be what you can see,” Suggs said.
Rich echoed this sentiment, emphasizing her responsibility to inspire young girls.
“I have to show up and show out every day so that other women and other young girls who aspire to be athletic directors or in other leadership positions, I want to show them that they can do this and they can do it well,” she said.
Rich’s journey began after graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University, where she played volleyball. She transitioned from coaching to athletic administration, quickly rising through the ranks at six universities.
Joining Edward Waters in October 2022, she played a pivotal role in the school’s transition to NCAA Division II membership.
“It was a big undertaking, but I’m extremely proud,” she said.
Reflecting on her career, Rich identified a turning point at Norfolk State, where she worked as a learning specialist.
“That’s hands down my favorite job and that showed me that I want to be in this role where I’m helping student-athletes,” she recalled.
Suggs’ career path offers a different perspective.
After serving in leadership roles within the Athletics Department, she became the president and CEO of the Florida Sports Foundation.
Returning to her alma mater, Florida A&M University, she now focuses on enhancing the student-athlete experience.
“The opportunity to be able to lead a team that is first and foremost focused on the student-athlete experience is just something that is an opportunity of a lifetime,” Suggs said.
Beyond their professional achievements, both women are deeply involved in their communities.
Suggs is active with the National Association of Athletic Development Directors and the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital Foundation. Rich was recently appointed to the Visit Jacksonville Board of Directors and is expanding her nonprofit, RichHER Foundation, which empowers and mentors women.
