Dr. Ferguson wins 2019-20 IWLCA President’s Cup Award
Tomika L. Ferguson, Ph.D., assistant professor in the VCU School of Education's Department of Educational Leadership, is the winner of the 2019-2020 President's Cup Award from the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA).
Ferguson, who is also currently serving as the Interim Assistant Dean of Student Affairs & Inclusive Excellence, was recognized today during the 2020 IWLCA Convention and Coaches Clinic, presented virtually this year. The President’s Cup Award is presented to a member of the lacrosse community who has exhibited distinguished contributions to the collegiate women’s lacrosse scene during the previous academic year. The IWLCA selected Ferguson for her efforts to educate IWLCA members toward inclusive, diverse, equitable and antiracist leadership practices.
Meg Decker, head coach at the University of Hartford, lauded Ferguson’s work with the IWLCA. “Dr. Ferguson has impacted the IWLCA in numerous ways over the past year, from delivering professional development sessions at our Convention, to sharing information and resources with the membership after George Floyd was murdered, to helping us learn and heal in the aftermath through her Racism, Allyship, and Accountability webinar. Tomika is an invaluable resource and continues to help guide the IWLCA and its members as we strive to become more inclusive and equitable.”
In her acceptance of the award, Ferguson noted, “I am not only humbled, but I am affirmed by this recognition.” She continued, “I am passionate about equity and inclusion and antiracist athletic environments. As an outsider to this sport, I have felt welcomed with each conversation and training that I have been privileged to lead. You all have demonstrated a desire to move beyond the stereotypes and barriers that have negatively impacted women’s lacrosse and to demonstrate nationally how inclusion is embedded in the fabric of this sport.” Ferguson closed by admitting that, “To end a year that has been filled with so many crises, with an award that recognizes my passion and commitment to encouraging, motivating, and educating others. I cannot express my gratitude and appreciation to IWLCA enough, so thank you.”
Below: Ferguson's virtual acceptance speech on Dec. 9, 2020. (from YouTube; Total Running Time: 2 minutes 58 seconds)