Elena Schwegman ’25 was selected to attend the 2026 NFL Women’s Forum, an invite-only event held in Indianapolis during the NFL Combine that connects top female talent in football with league executives, coaches, and decision-makers.
The Forum, now in its 10th year, was created to address the underrepresentation of women in football operations, coaching, and scouting. Each year, approximately 40 women working in college football are selected to participate in the program, which focuses on networking, professional development, and career advancement within the NFL.
“The NFL Women's Forum started 10 years ago as a way to give women a ‘side door’ into the football industry,” Schwegman said. “It allows women to create meaningful connections with League executives and club members.”
Schwegman’s selection process was both unexpected and memorable.
“I received an email around Thanksgiving that I had an interview,” she said. “When I joined the call, Commissioner Roger Goodell was there to tell me I had already been selected. It was a surreal experience.”
During the Forum, participants engaged in a full day of programming that included panels, roundtable discussions, and networking sessions with representatives from all 32 NFL teams.
“The Forum was a dream come true and a monumental experience,” Schwegman said. “Attending made it feel so possible to turn my career aspirations into reality.”
The day began with panel discussions, including a session featuring the Irsay sisters, owners of the Indianapolis Colts, followed by a panel of former Forum participants who have since secured roles in the NFL. In the afternoon, attendees participated in small-group roundtables with NFL executives, allowing for more direct and personal conversations.
“It was like speed dating for networking and informational interviews,” Schwegman said.
For Schwegman, one of the most impactful aspects of the experience was the opportunity to connect with both peers and professionals across the league.
“Being surrounded by 39 other women who were so accomplished and have similar aspirations was incredibly inspiring,” she said. “It was clear how much the industry is going to continue to grow because of women joining the game.”
She also highlighted several standout interactions, including conversations with NFL executives and club personnel, particularly within football administration, an area she hopes to pursue in her career.
“Their willingness to help promote us attendees in any way they could was very appreciated,” Schwegman said.
Through the experience, Schwegman gained valuable insight into the realities of building a career in the NFL.
“I learned that the NFL career journey is truly not linear,” she said. “There is not one ‘right’ way of finding your path in the industry. What really matters is the passion and work ethic you bring.”
The Forum continues to serve as a key pipeline for women entering the football industry, with approximately 40% of past participants going on to secure roles in football operations, coaching, and scouting.
Looking ahead, Schwegman plans to leverage the relationships and experiences gained at the Forum as she continues to build her career in football administration.
“The connections I made will serve as irreplaceable resources as I build my early career,” she said.
Sergio Rojas, a senior from Houston, Texas, is double-majoring in Business with a concentration in Finance and Sport Management with a concentration in Leadership.