One of Klein College of Media and Communication's newest student organizations is the Sports Media Society for Women, which was founded this spring semester by senior media studies and production major Erin Steffe.

Steffe first came across the idea of starting an organization like this when she was a freshman and attended a networking event held by the Association of Women in Sports. At the event Steffe was inspired by the network of encouraging women she met.

The first general interest meeting was held on April 18. Plans for future meetings include guest keynote speakers, informational panels, and workshop meetings where organization members can improve their skills.

“I wanted a place at Temple for women to meet with other women who are interested in the field of sports media and help each other out,” Steffe said. “A lot of the opportunities that I’ve earned are because someone that I became friends with learned about my passion and work ethic and came to me with an opportunity or put in a good word for me so I wanted to give more people that chance.”

With the help of faculty advisor Ali Castellini, a professor in the department of Media Studies and Production, Steffe put into motion the plans that she had been imagining since she was a freshman.

Castellini, who also is passionate about sports, says that by making this organization, the founding students understand the momentum that is being put forth for women in the sports industry. She added that to realize the goal of more women in sports media, the support system, network, and education for women needs to be prioritized.

“The kind of networking and collaborative opportunities that are going to available to students through this organization, I think are going to be unparalleled,” Castellini said. “Especially when you have people like Erin Steffe and her Eboard running the organization.”

The Sports Media Society for Women’s executive board is made up entirely of female students and while Steffe emphasized that men and women are both welcome to attend meetings, the heart of the club is to connect women interested in sports so they feel supported.

“I’m all about bringing women together, encouraging them, empowering them and giving them a chance to shine,” Steffe said.