The 5th annual “Building for Wealth Today & Tomorrow” Summit took place in Chicago, focusing on financial empowerment and investment in women’s sports and communities. The event was hosted by City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin, who emphasized the importance of wealth-building, financial literacy, and community reinvestment for athletes.
Treasurer Conyears-Ervin opened the summit by highlighting the theme of economic power and legacy-building through sports. A panel discussion moderated by Shari Nicole included several prominent figures: Linnae Harper (Washington Mystics guard), Rena Wakama (assistant coach for the Chicago Sky and head coach of Nigeria’s national team), Karen Leetzow (President of the Chicago Stars), Jessica Carrothers (2025 NAIA Women’s Basketball Player of the Year), and Renée Montgomery (former Chicago Sky player, now VP and co-owner of the Atlanta Dream).
Panelists discussed how their roles extend beyond athletic achievement to include leadership positions such as coaching, management, ownership, and business investment. They also spoke about using their platforms to promote generational wealth and support their communities.
Linnae Harper described her experience working in retail during the COVID-19 pandemic despite being a WNBA player. She said this period strengthened her resilience and commitment to helping young girls realize their potential. Harper stressed the value of maintaining strong community ties in south-side Chicago so that local youth have visible role models.
“I want to make sure that these girls have the hope and every opportunity to dream big and do anything,” Harper said.
Nicole observed that while many public figures contribute positively to their communities, their involvement is often brief. She noted Harper’s dedication to being consistently present in her neighborhood gives young people tangible examples of success they can aspire toward.
The summit highlighted a broader shift where women athletes are moving into business leadership roles, mentorship programs, local enterprises, and efforts aimed at building generational wealth. Organizers believe that with effective partnerships and targeted programming, sports can serve as a pathway toward greater economic equity.