RICHMOND, Va. — VCU Athletics relaunched ELEV8 on Monday, Aug. 25, at River City Roll, welcoming more than 100 student-athletes, coaches, staff, donors, corporate sponsors, and community members.

Originally created to enhance the gameday experience for VCU's eight women's sports programs, VCU Athletics reintroduced ELEV8 in today's evolving college athletics landscape to include a philanthropic initiative. The program will now focus on expanding resources to ensure VCU's female student-athletes have the tools, opportunities, and support needed to unlock their full potential and compete at the highest levels.

"Our female student-athletes have set an incredibly high standard for excellence at VCU and throughout the Richmond community," said VCU Vice President and Director of Athletics Ed McLaughlin. "The popularity and financial support for women's athletics continues to grow across the country and we want to make sure our student-athletes continue to have the opportunity to thrive. Investing in VCU women's sport programs makes good sense for anyone who wants to aid in the development of young people while associating themselves with winners. I know we can engage leaders across our community to partner with us and believe in our vision of what VCU Athletics can achieve."

The relaunch was made possible through the generosity of longtime women's sports supporter Darlene Emerson, who served as title sponsor of the kickoff luncheon. Additional sponsors included River City Roll, Pepsi, the VCU Foundation, and the VCU Women's Impact Network.
"The VCU Women's Impact Network was proud to support the relaunch of ELEV8 and celebrate VCU's women's student-athletes. This initiative is inspiring and reflects the power of investing in women across our community," said VCU Executive Director for Affinity Engagement & Philanthropy Amy Gray Beck.

The event featured guest speaker RaShauna Hamilton, Vice President of Fan Growth and Community for the Washington Spirit of the NWSL and a graduate of VCU's Center for Sport Leadership. Hamilton spoke about the importance of investing in women's sports and the role women play in shaping stronger communities.

She also moderated a panel discussion with VCU alumnae Susie Fife (women's basketball) and Jolinda Anderson (women's track and field), along with current field hockey student-athlete Emma Clements. Their insights into the student-athlete journey resonated deeply with the audience.
"The ELEV8 program at VCU is a powerful reminder of why investing in our female student-athletes matters. As a Ram Athletic Fund Board Member, I see firsthand how these opportunities not only elevate athletics but also inspire leadership, resilience, and confidence. This event further demonstrates the need for us all to step up, support our athletes, and encourage others to do the same," said Angela Roisten, Senior Vice President of Financial Success at Work at Virginia Credit Union.

Philanthropic gifts to ELEV8 support all eight women's programs at VCU. You can make a difference today by becoming a Champion of ELEV8 with a tax-deductible gift.

"This program is about more than competition. It's about academic success, leadership development, wellness, and providing the holistic student-athlete experience that prepares these women to win on the field and succeed in life. When you invest in ELEV8, you are investing in future leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Your support ensures that every VCU female student-athlete has the chance to unlock her full potential and inspire the next generation," said Sara Quatrocky, VCU Assistant Athletic Director for Development and Annual Giving.

GIVE TODAY!

For more information on becoming a Champion of ELEV8, contact Sara Quatrocky at quatrockys@vcu.edu.