Sandra Douglass Morgan, president of the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders, underscored the importance of her barrier-breaking leadership role during Super Bowl weekend in her hometown..
Douglass Morgan, who made history as the first Black woman to be named president of an NFL team when she took the helm of the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022, spoke to The Cut about her career experiences and goals to open doors and encourage others to pursue a career in sports.
“It wasn’t something I was actively seeking,” the Vegas native clarified about the NFL’s call. “But with my preparation and career, it was an incredible opportunity I wouldn’t turn down.” With 50% of the NFL fan base being women, Douglass Morgan said it’s important “to have someone in a leadership position that can actually relate.”
Since joining the Raiders, Douglass Morgan has spearheaded community
initiatives that partner the team with women and various businesses. “With flag football now an Olympic sport, we know more girls and women will be fans,” she explained. Together, the team is investing in its brand by growing the game of football while encouraging mental and physical health.Before becoming the third woman or Black president in the NFL, BLACK ENTERPRISE noted Douglass Morgan was the first person of color to chair the Nevada Gaming Control Board
and the first African American City Attorney in Nevada. “…There’s a responsibility, I think, not only within the organization but also externally,” Douglass Morgan said in 2023. The pioneer discussed how she motivated herself to recognize that her position can inspire other girls, teenagers, and women to see new possibilities and opportunities for themselves.Douglass Morgan expanded her list of historic firsts as she and the Raiders hosted thousands of Super Bowl LVIII guests this past weekend at Allegiant Stadium. According to Raider Nation, the big game marked the first time the event was hosted in Las Vegas.
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