Her Story
About Genese
Genese Lavalais is a distinguished collegiate athletics administrator, student advocate, and higher education leader with a career dedicated to advancing student-athlete success and strengthening athletic programs. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Science with a concentration in Health, Kinesiology, and Recreation from Southern Arkansas University in 2004. After beginning her journey through volunteer coaching and various professional experiences, Dr. Lavalais continued her education by earning a Master’s degree in Sport Administration from Grambling State University in 2007 and later completing her Ph.D. in Educational Administration with a concentration in Higher Education from Jackson State University in 2019.
Dr. Lavalais’ career in collegiate athletics began with an internship at LSU, where she developed a strong foundation in student-athlete development, academic support, and athletic administration. Her first full-time athletics position came in 2010 at Alabama State University as an athletic academic advisor, launching a career spanning more than 16 years in collegiate athletics. Throughout her professional journey, she has served in leadership roles at Alabama State University, Rust College, Jackson State University, and Hampton University, gaining extensive experience in academic services, compliance, student-athlete support, and athletic operations.
Currently, Dr. Lavalais serves as Deputy Athletic Director and Chief of Staff/Senior Woman Administrator at Alabama State University, where she oversees internal operations and supports the strategic direction of the athletics department. She is recognized as a passionate leader committed to accountability, mentorship, and creating opportunities for student-athletes to excel academically, athletically, and personally. Through her work, research, and service, Dr. Lavalais continues to champion the advancement of women in athletics, promote student success, and inspire the next generation of leaders in collegiate sports.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Genese
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being willing to learn, staying open to growth, working hard, remaining faithful, and staying committed to the journey. After years of volunteering, dedication, and perseverance, I have seen how consistency and trusting in God have opened doors and guided my path.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to make good decisions, maintain integrity, and show up as my best self every day. It is important to understand how to navigate spaces where you may be the only one, especially as a Black woman, while continuing to lead with confidence and purpose. I also believe in staying informed, reading, and making decisions that are always in the best interest of the student-athlete.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to show up fully, take pride in your work, and build a strong personal brand and legacy. Value the opportunities you receive, remain loyal to those who support your growth, and always think about the impact and legacy you want to leave behind.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry. As a strong Black woman and high achiever, there can be challenges in managing different perspectives, navigating egos, and overcoming barriers. However, it is also an opportunity for Black women to support one another, work together, and continue being examples of excellence and leadership for future generations.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me most are God, faith, family, trust, work ethic, loyalty, and accountability. My faith is the foundation of who I am, and my family is incredibly important to me. I believe in showing up with dedication, maintaining strong relationships, being dependable, and always holding myself accountable for the work I do.
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