Stephanie Paris to Join Women’s Final Four Panel Discussion

Empowering Female Athletes: Stephanie Paris to Address Transition Challenges

As a former collegiate coach and athlete, Stephanie Paris is set to guide fellow athletes and peers through the challenges of transitioning from sports to the professional sphere.

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — With the NCAA women’s basketball Final Four happening this Friday, Bowling Green State University (BGSU) will be represented in Tampa Bay.

Stephanie Paris, a former collegiate athlete and coach who currently serves as vice president at State Bank, has been invited to speak on a panel organized by the National Association for Collegiate Directors of Athletics and Teamworks.

“It’s all about the ambition behind it,” Paris expressed. “These two organizations came together to showcase dynamic women on stage and foster dialogue about college athletics and the professional landscape.”

This panel discussion is part of the inaugural “Netting Transformation: Women Advancing Change in Athletics” event, marking a significant milestone in women’s representation at prominent college sports gatherings.

Paris, alongside other high-level administrators, will discuss the transition she has made from athletics to finance, highlighting how leadership skills and qualities from both arenas can synergize for success.

“Sharing experiences and insights is key,” Paris noted. “If student athletes can cultivate strong communication, engagement, and networking skills, the opportunities for support in their future are boundless. Those are the essential skills we wish to emphasize.”

“This event promises to be impactful, and I’m fortunate to be involved,” she added.

Since relocating to Bowling Green with her husband, BGSU Athletic Director Derek van der Merwe, Paris has been dedicated to uplifting women within the Falcon nation. Initiatives like the Bowling Green Women’s Clinic exemplify her commitment.

Her latest project involves selling hats featuring BGSU’s slogan, “Roll Along,” with proceeds benefiting women’s athletic programs that often face budget constraints.

“As a former softball player in a lower-tier sport, I’m aware of the constant need for fundraising and support,” Paris shared. “This initiative aims to assist those sports in need.”

Every five weeks, a new product will be launched, with proceeds directed to a different women’s program. The inaugural benefit was for the softball team on February 27, with upcoming programs to be revealed shortly.

“I genuinely hope the softball initiative makes a significant impact, possibly funding a special trip or tournament,” Paris explained. “While there are countless hat companies, my focus isn’t on competition—it’s about supporting women in sports.”

During her time on the panel, Paris intends to continue championing support for female athletes, drawing inspiration from others to enhance the Bowling Green community further.

“My role is to provide ongoing support to student athletes,” Paris stated. “I aim to absorb insights from this event to share with Derek, our leadership, coaches, and the wider community as part of my responsibilities at State Bank. That’s truly my goal.”