Beineke poses with student athletes during Turn the Town Teal
Share on Social Media
Current News Stories
Women's History Month: Katie Beineke
This Women's History Month, as we celebrate the contributions of women throughout history, our UAFS faculty and staff took time to share the stories of the incredible women who have influenced their lives and careers.
This series aims to not only highlight the impact of these women but also to dive into a diverse range of narratives that reflect the strength, resilience, and creativity of women across various fields and backgrounds. It's a chance to recognize, reflect, and be inspired by the legacies that shape our world today.
In this week’s Women’s History Month profile, we feature Katie Beineke, Senior Associate Athletic Director at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith. Beineke's journey and leadership role at UAFS underscores the unique perspectives and contributions women bring to sports administration.
"I take great pride in being a female in the male-dominated field of athletic administration," Beineke shared. “I am able to offer a different perspective to the workplace because my lived experiences are drastically different from my male colleagues. I have a seat at the table to make decisions that impact our coaches and student athlete experiences to be able to set them up for success. I am an example to girls and women who have an interest in athletic administration because I am visible and proactive in empowering the next generation of women leaders.”
Beineke's commitment to merging academic support with athletic excellence enables her to guide student-athletes toward success both in their sports and future careers. "My role as the Senior Associate Athletic Director has allowed me so many opportunities to connect with other women leaders in the nation through organizations like “Women Leaders in Sports.”
“As a leader, it is my responsibility to continue to stand on the shoulders of trailblazer women and empower the next generation," she stated, acknowledging the importance of paving the way for others.
Beineke shared some of those trailblazers in her own life, including Desiree’ Reed-Francois, the Athletic Director at Arizona, and Jennifer Cohen, the Athletic Director at USC. These women embody holistic leadership, focusing on relationships, mission fulfillment, and the essence of athletic administration. "Their drive is contagious and energizes everyone in the room," she said. “They lead holistically, building relationships and delivering on their personal and institutional missions. I have been so inspired by their passion for their positions and what it means to be an athletic administrator.”
Through her role and as part of organizations like “Women Leaders in Sports,” Katie
Beineke at UAFS exemplifies the significant impact women can have in sports leadership,
encouraging a more inclusive and diverse future for the field.
Read more about Beineke in this 2020 feature: BRCA1 Mutation Shapes Beineke's Future