KANSAS CITY – Women Leaders in College Sports announced that Washington State Assistant Athletic Director of Student-Athlete Development Shelby McKay has been named the 2021 Jostens Commitment Award recipient.
 
McKay is one of several recipients that will be recognized through the Women Leaders' Nike Celebration of Women social media campaign, which began on September 13. Winners will also be honored during the Nike Celebration of Women session at the WOMEN LEADERS X, a Women Leaders in College Sports virtual convention that runs from October 10-11.
 
"I would like to thank WSU Athletics, Women Leader's in College Sports, and those who nominated me for this award," said McKay. "Serving student-athletes is my why, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve student-athletes at Washington State University."
 
McKay joined the WSU Athletic Department in January of 2020. As WSU's Assistant AD for Student-Athlete Development, she oversees a three-person staff and directs all Student-Athlete Development programming, including personal, professional and leadership development, community engagement, two seminar courses and the WSU Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).
 
"Words can't properly describe the impact that Shelby has made on WSU Athletics in such a short time," WSU Deputy Athletic Director/COO Bryan Blair said. "Her unwavering commitment to our student-athletes, coupled with her intellect and work ethic make her an invaluable leader. I can't think of anyone more deserving of this award and I'm proud that Shelby is a Coug!"
 
During her time at Washington State, McKay has been instrumental in several student-athlete development initiatives such as Cougar Pursuit, Name, Image and Likeness, Black Student-Athlete Association, SAAC, Cougar Pride Student-Athlete Alliance and the Unleash strategic plan. McKay was also accepted into the NCAA Leadership Academic Workshop, an eight-month leadership program that empowers athletic administrators with the knowledge and plan to build a sustainable leadership development program.
 
Founded in 1979, Women Leaders in College Sports (formerly NACWAA) is the only nationally recognized collegiate professional membership organization whose mission is to develop, connect and advance women leaders working in intercollegiate athletics. More than 3,800 members strong, Women Leaders promotes the growth, leadership and success of women as athletics administrators, conference commissioners, professional staff, coaches and student-athletes.