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Michigan State University Federal Credit Union's Women of Sparta Program Unveils 2025-2026 Cohort

Michigan State University Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) has proudly announced the launch of its second Women of Sparta cohort for the 2025-2026 academic year. This innovative program is designed specifically to bolster the support and opportunities available to female student-athletes at Michigan State University (MSU) beyond traditional Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.

The Women of Sparta initiative is a unique and comprehensive resource aimed at elevating women's sports on campus. By providing valuable resources that extend beyond mere financial compensation, this program seeks to develop the next generation of female leaders in athletics.

A Diverse and Talented Cohort

The 2025-2026 cohort showcases an impressive group of athletes representing a wide array of sports disciplines. Among the notable participants are:

• - Cross-Country: Cookie Baugh (senior)
• - Field Hockey: Madeline Lawlor (graduate student)
• - Golf: Shannon Kennedy (senior)
• - Soccer: Emerson Sargeant (senior)
• - Softball: Britain Beshears (senior) and Payton Conroy (junior)
• - Track and Field: Mia Rogan (junior)
• - Basketball: A robust representation featuring several seniors and underclassmen, showcasing not just skill but also an incredible potential for leadership.

Cookie Baugh expressed her enthusiasm for the coming year in a recent social media post, stating, “So glad to be back for another year representing MSUFCU in its Women of Sparta program! I’m excited for another year of growth, competition, and representing a program that empowers female student-athletes both on and off the field.”

More Than Just Financial Support

One of the pivotal components of the Women of Sparta program is its focus on equipping student-athletes with essential life skills and comprehensive financial education. The program offers:

• - Financial Education: Ensuring athletes understand how to manage their finances effectively.
• - Personal Branding Workshops: Helping them learn how to market themselves and navigate the complexities of their public personas.
• - Mentorship Programs: Connecting them with established professionals for guidance and insight.
• - Job Shadowing and Internship Opportunities: Providing real-world experience that can help pave the way for their future careers, whether in sports or other industries.

These initiatives are designed to ensure that student-athletes are well-prepared for life after college, helping them to cultivate skills that are pivotal for success in any career.

Commitment to Empowerment

According to April Clobes, President and CEO of MSUFCU, “This year's Women of Sparta cohort exemplifies excellence on and off the field, demonstrating dedication, resilience, and leadership. We are proud to support them with opportunities to build leadership skills, gain financial education, and prepare for success as future leaders in their communities.”

MSUFCU has a long-standing commitment to supporting women's athletics at MSU, having been a major sponsor of the women's basketball team for over a decade. The organization's dedication to empowering female athletes through initiatives like Women of Sparta reflects its broader commitment not just to sports but to fostering excellence and empowerment across all fields.

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1937, MSUFCU has built a national reputation for excellence, earning numerous accolades for its workplace culture and community engagement. Recognized as one of the best credit unions to work for and having received numerous awards for its commitment to social responsibility, MSUFCU continues to expand its impact through initiatives like Women of Sparta.

For further details about the Women of Sparta program and its initiatives, interested parties can visit msufcu.org/womenofsparta. The future is bright for these athletes, and through this program, they are not just shaping their athletic careers but also their professional futures.