Dr. Robin Beavers

SVP Community & Social Impact

“Dr. Robin, your path into sports—from journalism to sociology to higher ed and ultimately community impact—is such a powerful example that there’s no single “right” route into this industry. Your experience working with athletes on both their personal and professional development clearly laid a foundation for the meaningful work you’re doing now.

Your insights on women, especially women of color, still having to prove themselves more than men is an honest and crucial reminder of the work left to do in the industry. And it’s inspiring how you center mentorship and want to leave a true impact on the world.

I loved your advice not to limit yourself—that sports is an industry you can enter at any stage if you’ve built transferable skills. And your love for game days and the team atmosphere shines through.

Also, tap dancing and three granddaughters? Absolutely wonderful fun facts!” – Zara Halabu

Please describe your role & responsibilities at that position ?

Lead the club’s external community relations and social impact programs.

What did you study in college and how did your educational background shape your career in the sports industry?

I began studying journalism with hopes of going into public relations, but quickly changed to sociology, and finally getting my degree in business management and communications (yes I was that one who changed their major 3 times). I went on to study higher education and got both my masters and doctorate in higher education administration. My educational experiences prepared me to work in the sports industry by allowing me to study and work with athletes to help them prepare, have success on and off the field, graduate from college and later transition into sustainable careers.

Can you share the key milestones in your career that led you to your current position in the sports industry?

Nonprofit College & Career Manager 12 years

Assist Admissions Director for 4 years

Philanthropic Leadership (at nonprofit, Higher Ed, and Mental Health organization)6 years. During this time I also served as director for one of Nike’s EYBL teams in Oregon.

Portland Timbers VP position.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in the sports business, & how have you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges is ensuring my voice is heard and adds value to the work that the club is doing on and off the field.

Balancing a career is demanding. How do you manage a work-life balance? What strategies have worked well for you?

Since our schedule is not a normal 9-4, M-F work week, I use the down time for self care. I also have certain days set aside that are family days where I do not do work.

How important is mentorship for women in the sports industry? Have you had mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career and can give some details ?

Mentorship is key in helping developing talent and the next set of leaders in the industry. I have had mentors, not necessarily in the sports industry, but those who have instilled confidence in my talents while also helping me build the skills I need to be an effective leader.

In a male-dominated industry, do you feel women are given equal opportunities? What steps do you think can be taken to promote gender equality in the sports industry?

I think some women are given (close to) equal opportunities, but not all, especially women of color. Women seem to always have to prove their worth and are expected to perform at a higher level then men, with less support systems.

What aspects of your work in the sports industry do you enjoy the most ? What parts do you find the most challenging ?

I enjoy the sports team environment. I love game days and everything that lead up to those game days. Challenging times are of course if the team isn’t winning or if the club as a whole are struggling to meet revenue goals.

What advice do you have for young women aspiring to build a successful career in the sports industry?

Do not limit yourself. You do not have to have a direct path into sports. Find what you like to do most (ie. marketing, community engagement, finance, HR, etc) and gain the experience wherever you can as you build your career. I did not begin working for a sports team until 20+ years into my career, but all my professional experiences have prepared me for the work I do today.

What are your long term personal goals that you still want to achieve both business wise and personal?

I just want to make an impact in the world in which we live.

Any fun facts you’d like the world to learn about you? Favorite food, hobbies, how many kids, pet peeves, etc. The more the merrier

2 Sons, 3 granddaughters, I love to travel and can tap dance 🙂