The Las Vegas Raiders and Sandra Douglass Morgan made NFL history when she became the first Black female team president this past summer.
She said she doesn't like to dwell on her personal accomplishments, but she also realizes that representation matters.
Obviously, we all are members of this team. Everyone has something incredible to offer. But if I can give even hope or inspiration or just be a visible leader to so many ... girls and women, I'm happy to do that, and proud that the Raiders allowed me to do that as well.
The groundbreaking moment came after a tough season for the Raiders.
The problems included former coach Jon Gruden’s resignation after reports revealed racist and misogynistic emails. Weeks later, wide receiver Henry Ruggs was released from the team after authorities said he was driving under the influence at 100-plus miles per hour when he crashed into another vehicle, killing a 23-year-old woman and her dog.
Morgan knows she's got a challenge ahead of her, but that's when the UNLV Boyd School of Law graduate said she's best. The new Raiders president says owner Mark Davis has encouraged her to talk to as many employees as possible and use her new position to make adjustments wherever necessary.
"He was the one that said, 'Look, if we're doing something that needs to be changed, you have the ability to fix it. That's what I'm expecting out of you,'" said Morgan. "It is a strong international brand. We have to protect it."
Courtesy, Las Vegas Raiders
The former El Dorado High School class president and cheer captain has deep roots in the Silver State, and she couldn't pass up what she called a once in a lifetime opportunity.
I had to do soul searching to make sure it was the best decision not only for myself, but also for my family, and for my children, understanding that this was definitely going to be a more visible role. But to be able to lead a national football team and the best football team and the Raiders, in my hometown and the place that I grew up in ... there were definitely some thoughts, but a quick yes.
You can listen to more from Morgan in season 2, episode 5 of our award-winning Asian American and Pacific Islander podcast, Exit Spring Mountain. Morgan talks about what it was like growing up in a mixed race family and how it's shaped her journey as a leader and role model.
Sandra Douglass Morgan, president, Las Vegas Raiders
