On the soccer field, Olympic gold-medalist and FIFA World Cup champion midfielder Megan Rapinoe is known for her speed, versatility, and crafty style of play. Off the field, she’s known for her advocacy and authenticity.
Rapinoe plays for Seattle Reign F.C. in the National Women’s Soccer League. Since 2009, she has been an integral player for the United States Women’s National Soccer Team, most famous for her equalizing assist to Abby Wambach in the 122nd minute of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup quarterfinal match against Brazil.
On Friday, Rapinoe will discuss both her professional and personal successes with Boston College students during “Dscvr: Diversity with Megan Rapinoe” at 1 p.m. in the Heights Room. Organized by the Marketing Academy of BC (MABC), the event marks the first installment of MABC’s DSCVR or “Discover” speaker series.
On Friday afternoon, Rapinoe is expected to discuss how marketing, diversity, and authenticity helped her establish a successful personal brand.
An important facet of Rapinoe’s personal brand is her belief in living authentically. With the help of her twin sister, Rachael, Megan founded Rapinoe SC, LLC. The mission of their company is described as “help[ing] people of all ages and backgrounds tap into their own individuality and uniqueness by living in the true essence of Being Your Best You.”
According to Jackson Rettig, head of MABC and CSOM ’17, the speaker series aims to connect students in the Carroll School of Management, Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences, Lynch School of Education, and Connell School of Nursing. Rettig explained that aspects of marketing, from personal branding to communication, play key roles in successful careers across disciplines.
“Marketing is the bridge between the schools,” Rettig said.
Throughout the last year, MABC underwent a rebranding process of its own. The organization entered the fall 2016 semester with a new executive board and new team members. From establishing a larger online presence, to collaborating with other on-campus organizations, MABC restructured itself to have a broader appeal.
“Our goal is to connect all types of students at BC,” Rettig said. “We want to host interdisciplinary events and appeal to a wider audience.”
Friday’s event is co-sponsored by Allies of BC, the Undergraduate Government of BC, the Women’s Center, BC’s Communication Department, BC Athletics, and the Office of Student Involvement. As an avid LGBTQ+ and women’s rights advocate, Rapinoe utilizes her platform as a successful professional athlete to take a stand against inequality in America.
“She’s had a lot of success on and off the field,” Rettig said. “Rapinoe fought for equal pay and stood against injustice. We thought she could connect with BC students authentically, in a variety of ways.”
Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
