Return On Inclusion Launches ADID Immersion Program

New York, NY — November 13, 2024 — Return On Inclusion (ROI), announces the launch of an innovative leadership program designed to prepare Athletics Diversity and Inclusion Designees (ADIDs) with the tools to drive identity-conscious leadership and equity-forward strategies in collegiate athletics. 

When the NCAA introduced the Athletics Diversity and Inclusion Designee (ADID) role to strengthen its commitment to inclusion in college athletics, Nevin Caple, a leading inclusion executive and visionary behind the ROI ADID Immersion Program, was inundated with requests for guidance. 

During these conversations, Caple coached and mentored ADIDs striving to make an impact while navigating the complexities of inclusion in athletics. “As college athletics continues to evolve, the need for access to resources and training to understand policy and strategy is becoming more urgent,” said Caple. “The challenges ADIDs face are not isolated but part of a broader trend in college athletics and society which requires a cohesive curriculum and strong support system.” 

In recent years, various states have introduced legislation to restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. As these legislative efforts gain momentum, it is crucial for senior leaders to understand the implications, the motivations behind them, and the potential impact on student-athletes and institutions. 

Despite the challenges, Caple is encouraged by those who continue to prioritize ADID development. In addition to her coaching efforts, the NCAA and DIECE have helped build a sense of community through events and platforms, including the Inclusion Forum and Community Connections Calls. According to a 2021 NCAA-sponsored survey of nearly 350 ADIDs, 80% of campus-based ADIDs expressed a desire for continued growth and more resources and support in their roles.

To meet the need, ROI is launching the ADID Immersion Program. This work represents a shift in athletics, where identity-conscious leadership becomes the foundation for success. The comprehensive, five-month blended learning program strengthens the leadership capabilities of ADIDs while providing streamlined coaching and mentoring support from Caple.

“Having access to a structured leadership development opportunity like the ROI ADID Immersion Program is essential for both personal and professional growth,” said Miles Smith, Jr., Associate Director of Athletics at Princeton University. “Nevin has been an incredible friend and mentor throughout my journey as an ADID. Her guidance has transformed my experience, helping me evolve from a novice in this role to someone who feels confident and empowered in my role as an ADID.”

Throughout the program, ADIDs will develop the skills to support student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and staff across social and cultural backgrounds and identities. Led by Nevin, the program is scheduled to run from February to June 2025, combining virtual workshops and discussions, a guest speaker series, self-paced learning modules, and an in-person gathering in June. Additionally, participants will have access to the new ROI ADID Community Forum to connect and strategize with industry colleagues in real-time. The following sport-focused topics will be covered in the immersion program curriculum:

• Identity-Conscious Leadership
• Sustainability & Engagement 
• Countering Chaos & Unexamined Bias
• Restorative Conversations
• Equity-Forward Strategies

ADIDs who are ready to enhance their leadership impact are encouraged to apply here.

About Return On Inclusion

For more information, contact:

Kyle Chilton

kyle@roinclusion.com