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sports. The same drive that led Gillette to play basketball at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire has led her to the White House, where she advises President Obama on policy issues affecting Native Americans.
• "I found that the work ethic and discipline involved in developing athletic talents translate very well into academic and workplace settings," Gillette said in an email.
• On Thursday, Gillette will be recognized in Washington with 39 other women who have been named to the Women's Sports Foundation's 40 For 40 list. The list honors women who have made a significant impact on society after playing sports in high school or college during the 40 years Title IX has been enacted. Title IX is a law known mainly for mandating gender equity in high school and collegiate sports.
• Other honorees include soccer player Mia Hamm, figure skater Michelle Kwan, comedian Ellen DeGeneres and astronaut Sally Ride.
• "We are proud to recognize these women and the positive role that the passage of Title IX has played in the lives of countless women and girls," Kathryn Olson, chief executive officer of the Women's Sports Foundation, said in a statement. "Each has used participation in sports as a step toward making a very significant contribution to society in a wide variety of fields."
• Gillette said she hopes the award will provide greater understanding and visibility for Native American women athletes and professionals, as well as inspire Native youth.
• "I would like youth to see that consistent hard work pays off not only on the court, but can also build character and confidence to achieve in other areas," she said.
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