Elena Viñales is an experienced diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner and a dedicated advocate for creating spaces where everyone feels valued and empowered. Currently serving as the Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology, Elena leads strategic initiatives to foster belonging, connect communities, and drive cultural change within higher education. With a PhD in sports management, her work is grounded in a deep understanding of how sports can influence and inspire individual and community growth.
Elena’s research and professional practice focus on dismantling systemic barriers that impact historically excluded groups, particularly Black women and girls. One of her current project visions addresses the adultification of Black girls, a pervasive issue that often robs them of joyful and empowering childhood experiences. Drawing on her expertise in athletics, she aims to create a program that uses sports as a platform for Black girls to explore play, build confidence, and develop leadership skills. This initiative seeks to provide safe spaces for self-expression while leveraging the growing momentum of women’s sports to foster opportunities and a sense of community. Through her work, Elena is committed to championing equity, uplifting marginalized voices, and fostering transformative change.
