The Women in Sports Panel was hosted by the Athletics Department in the Joseph Dana Allen Library on Thursday, February 6, in celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day. Featuring accomplished women in athletics, the event provided a platform for panelists—including a Poly parent who returned to campus in a meaningful new capacity—to share their journeys, from early passions in sports to collegiate competition and, ultimately, careers both on and off the field at major sports franchises and companies such as Major League Baseball (MLB), Under Armour, and more. 

Inspiring Personal Stories and Q&A

Panelists reflected on their personal experiences, offering insights into the evolving landscape of professional sports for women. They discussed key topics such as equal pay, and the increasing recognition of female athletes’ talents. Their stories illustrated how a passion for sports can grow into a fulfilling career, inspiring students to explore their own interests.

Students also received advice and encouragement to identify and pursue their passions, staying open to new opportunities, and dedicating time to personal and professional growth. The event concluded with a Q&A session, where panelists answered a range of student questions about fitness routines, favorite aspects of their careers, among others. The visiting athletes highlighted the exciting opportunities their careers have provided, from global travel and cultural experiences to working on unique, personally meaningful projects. Overall, the event gave students an inspiring glimpse into how dedication and passion can open doors to unexpected, fruitful opportunities. A special highlight of the day—students even had the chance to hold a Paralympic gold medal!

Women in Sports Panelists

Samia Akbar

Samia Akbar is the Senior Global Marketing Lead for the Outdoor and Project Rock categories at Under Armour. While attending American University she achieved All-American status in the 10,000 meters and in 2017 was inducted into the Hall of Fame. She is a retired professional distance runner who’s represented the United States on several national teams. Samia’s love of people, sport, and art helped hone her skills as an experienced global marketing strategist. With 10 years’ experience across running, lifestyle, and sports marketing at New Balance, she relishes opportunities to connect brands to consumers through authentic, athlete-centric, and culturally relevant storytelling.

Christina Porter P’30

Christina Porter P’30 has been serving as counsel for Major League Baseball since April 2021. In this role, Porter supports MLB’s Global Media business through drafting, negotiating and advising on various regional, national and international media distribution transactions. Prior to joining MLB, Porter served as Assistant Fiduciary Counsel at Bessemer Trust Company, as an associate at boutique trust & estate firms and as a consultant. Porter earned her B.A. from St. Peter’s University where she is a Hall of Fame member of its DI softball program and her J.D. from Pace Law School.

Lora Webster

Lora Webster is a mother of four, a 6x Paralympian and 3x gold medalist. Diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) at age 11, Lora had a surgery called rotationplasty to remove the cancerous bone and was later fitted with a prosthetic. While playing high school volleyball she was recruited to try sitting volleyball. Lora has been a member of the USA National Sitting Team since 2003.