CHESTER, Pa. – Widener Associate Athletics Director and Senior Woman Administrator Larissa Gillespie was recently awarded the Julie E. Wollman Endowed Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The award is named after Dr. Julie Wollman, Widener's former president.

This award recognizes an employee who advocates and affects change at Widener in support of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, by going above and beyond their job responsibilities.

By partnering with the Ladipo Group, a Black-owned company dedicated to emotional wellness, Gillespie has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. Her work in DEI helped Widener Athletics win an honorable mention for the 2024 NCAA Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA) Award for Diversity and Inclusion.

Gillespie is also an advocate in areas such as mental health. She was the founder of the H.U.B. (Health, Unity, and Belonging), which was formerly Room 204. In this safe space, student-athletes can focus on their mental health and find a sense of belonging. The Breathe platform provides resources and a culture of openness and support. Gillespie's work in mental health led to her earning a certificate in Wellness Counseling from Cornell University in 2023.

Her efforts with the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and Widener Athletic Leadership Initiative (WALI) have allowed student-athletes to grow their leadership skills and promote communication between student-athletes, coaches, and administration.

She also helped start the Athletic Faculty Advisor program. Bridging athletics and academics, this program provides student-athletes in each sport with mentorships and academic support. The program currently has 18 faculty advisors. Additionally, Gillespie spearheaded a food pantry within the athletic center for student-athletes that may have food insecurities.