Student Athletes Participate in Changemakers Conference

Four Governor’s students, along with Director of Afternoon Programs & Athletics Claudia Asano Barcomb and Dean of Multicultural Education Michelle de la Guardia, attended the ISL Changemakers Conference for a day of learning, growth, and community building. Student-athletes Nyla Palmer ‘25, Will Wertz ‘25, Gracie Augustine ‘25, and Eve Bennett ‘25 traveled to Lawrence Academy in Groton, Massachusetts, for the conference, which brings together student-athletes, athletic directors, and DEI leaders from ISL schools to foster positive change within their school communities. 

“It makes a difference each year to bring kids together and have them know they can make a difference in their role as a team leader. The kids were motivated to learn from others at the conference and were excited to come back to campus and make meaningful changes in what we do and how we go about it, “said Barcomb.

The day’s topics included: women in leadership, healthy team culture, locker room dynamics, and mental health. Participants engaged in conversations about building captains' councils, promoting healthy masculinity, practicing mindfulness, and balancing academics, sports, and social life. Now in its third year, ISL Changemakers empowers attendees to shape inclusive and supportive athletic environments. 

Michelle de la Guardia attended for the first time this year and noted the importance of conference sessions on allyship, bystander intervention, and the impact of social media.

Nyla Palmer ‘25 attended the women in sports session, during which participants discussed ways to uplift teammates and build confidence both on and off the field. Nyla said, “It was inspiring to hear from other female athletes about the challenges they face and the ways we can support one another in pursuing our goals. I left feeling motivated to bring some of these ideas back to Govs and help foster a stronger, more supportive community for women in sports.”