Sports is the arena for change, and Ann Seeney is changing the game from the inside out for the U.S. Soccer Federation, one of the largest sports organizations in the United States. With over 20 years of experience, this expert sports advisor is on a mission to transform people and organizations into equitable leaders and environments.
As Chief People and Diversity Officer at the U.S. Soccer Federation, Seeney is leading the charge as an agent of change to ensure the development of soccer at all levels and to promote integrity in an inclusive and distinct culture. With soccer as the premier global sport, Seeney is leading with the anticipation that U.S. soccer will be the foremost example of equity in sports and society.
Through the organizations she supports, Seeney is a reflection of the change she seeks. She is a founding board member of PRO Sports Assembly, an organization of sports leaders who are blazing the trail and advancing the industry. She unites, equips, and empowers sports leaders to examine best practices, influence others, and positively impact communities. Seeney has also served on boards for The Little Bit Foundation and the Diversity Awareness Partnership (DAP).
Sports and diversity have remained constant threads throughout Seeney’s career. She spent nearly ten years as the Vice President of Human Resources for the St. Louis Cardinals, where executing DEI strategies and transforming the company culture were her top priorities.
Prior to the corporate sector, Seeney led intentional human resources initiatives for community-based organizations, including a regional school district and national nonprofits like Goodwill Industries International. The gaps within DEI efforts and the development of people have further shaped her career and have contributed to her approach as a leader.
Ultimately, Seeney’s aim is to transform organizations through truth-seeking and critical conversations and progress DEI by centering efforts around leadership development. Her life as a Black and Native American and the diverse educational experience provided by Hampton University, an HBCU, ignite her passion for mentoring students who also seek inclusion. With the addition of a Master of Jurisprudence and an MBA, Seeney continues to illuminate knowledge, truth, and understanding for all.
Speaking Topics:
- How soccer is leading the way towards a more equitable society in the US
- Why DEI begins with leadership development
- How our experiences shape our leadership
- How to have hard conversations & do hard things – and why they matter
