SUNSHINE STUDENT ATHLETES
The Lapan Sunshine Foundation is dedicated to empowering student-athletes across Arizona and beyond because we believe they are the future leaders of our communities, businesses, and institutions. Athletes are uniquely positioned to lead—shaped by discipline, resilience, teamwork, and accountability long before they ever enter a boardroom or classroom.
Through targeted professional development, tailored real-world experiences, and initiatives that strengthen their position in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), the Foundation equips student-athletes with the tools, confidence, and networks to succeed beyond the field of play. Our programming emphasizes leadership development, financial literacy, career readiness, and philanthropic engagement—ensuring athletes are prepared not just for success in sport, but for life.
Research consistently shows the powerful link between athletics and leadership.
Studies indicate that:
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Over 90% of women in C-suite positions played sports, with the majority citing athletics as a key contributor to their leadership skills.
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More than 70% of Fortune 500 CEOs have a background in competitive sports, crediting athletics with teaching perseverance, strategic thinking, and team leadership.
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Former student-athletes are significantly more likely to hold executive and management roles than their non-athlete peers.
THESE OUTCOMES ARE NOT ACCIDENTAL
Athletics builds leaders.
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That is why the Lapan Sunshine Foundation intentionally invests in student-athletes as role models and mentors for our Lapan students. When young people see leaders who look like them—who have balanced academics, athletics, and responsibility—they begin to envision what is possible for their own futures. Student-athletes embody the values we seek to instill: work ethic, integrity, humility, and service.
By fostering community impact and encouraging athletes to give back, the Foundation creates a powerful cycle of leadership—one where today’s athletes uplift today’s students, and together become tomorrow’s changemakers.
