ESPN employees support Driessen at the WISE awards luncheon. ESPN President John Skipper said, “Christine is one of the most powerful women in sports and entertainment. And, yes, she has a huge job, lots of influence and the ability to help shape the viewing habits of millions of sports fans around the world. But that alone is not what makes Christine powerful. Her real power stems from the set of values she embraces to ensure that she is an exception role model for so many women and men at ESPN.” (Photo credit: Jennifer Pottheiser)
For the first time and as part of the 20th anniversary celebration, WISE recognized four “Women of Distinction.” The four honorees – Val Ackerman, Christine Driessen, Barbara Paddock (L) and Judy Sweet (R) – were selected based on criteria including 20-plus years of experience in the sports industry, showing strength in their overall body of work, and continued support in and around the industry while setting a milestone as the first to accomplish something in their field. (Photo credit: Jennifer Pottheiser)