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Kimberly Clay
Founder & CEO at Play Like a Girl!®
Kimberly S. Clay, PhD, MPH, MSW, is the founder and CEO of Play Like a Girl!®, a nonprofit organization based in Nashville, Tennessee. Established in 2010, Play Like a Girl!® is dedicated to empowering young women by leveraging sports to promote careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Clay's vision is rooted in the belief that participation in sports can cultivate leadership skills and confidence in girls, ultimately helping them to excel in traditionally male-dominated professions.
Education and Early Career
Dr. Clay holds multiple degrees: a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Xavier University of Louisiana, a Master of Social Work from Tulane University, a Master of Public Health from Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, and a PhD in Health Education/Promotion from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Her early career included roles as a public health analyst at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where she gained firsthand experience with the gender gap in education and health within underserved communities.13
Founding Play Like a Girl!
The inception of Play Like a Girl!® was influenced by Dr. Clay's observations regarding childhood obesity and its disproportionate impact on girls, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. Recognizing the potential of sports as a catalyst for change, she rebranded her earlier community work into Play Like a Girl!® during her doctoral studies. Under her leadership, the organization has reached over 50,000 girls across the U.S., Canada, Africa, and the Caribbean through various programs that emphasize mentorship, physical activity, and STEM education.234
Impact and Recognition
Dr. Clay has been recognized for her contributions to gender equality in sports and education. She has received several awards, including the 2023 Remarkable Women Award and the Tennessee Titans Playmakers Award. Her work not only focuses on promoting STEM careers but also addresses financial literacy among young girls to prepare them for economic independence.36
Current Initiatives
Under Dr. Clay's guidance, Play Like a Girl!® collaborates with schools, corporations, and sports organizations to create opportunities for girls to engage in STEM fields through active play. The organization emphasizes the importance of role models and community involvement to inspire the next generation of female leaders.45
Dr. Kimberly Clay continues to advocate for girls' empowerment through sports and education, aiming to create an inclusive environment where every girl can achieve her full potential.
