Marjorie Herrera Lewis, Doctor of Arts
Marjorie Herrera Lewis, Doctor of Arts, is an author, sports executive, media professional, and university professor whose career centers on leadership, storytelling, and sport. She is the Commissioner of the Global Flag Football League (GFFL), helping guide the rapid global growth of flag football while emphasizing inclusion, opportunity, and community impact. She is also a co-host of DBTV’s Journey Through Sports and Life and an accomplished sportswriter and public speaker represented by AAE Speakers Bureau.
Lewis is the author of the critically acclaimed novel When the Men Were Gone, published by Morrow/HarperCollins. Inspired by the true story of women who coached high school football teams in Texas during World War II, the novel explores themes of resilience, leadership, and gender equity in sports and has earned widespread recognition for its historical depth and emotional power.
Academically, Lewis serves as a Faculty Associate at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University. She holds a doctorate in English Pedagogy, a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (Fiction), and a master’s degree in legal studies, along with graduate training in digital marketing. Her professional expertise spans writing, editing, digital media, and public speaking, and her work continues to connect sport, education, and storytelling on a national and global stage.
• Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University
Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University
Master’s in Legal Studies
• Cornell University
Cornell University
Graduate Certificate, Digital Marketing
• The Broder Club
• President Team CT Advisory program
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the hard work, persistence, and dedication it has taken to reach this point in my career. I was one of the first women to work in Dallas Cowboys news and sports journalism, an experience that helped shape my voice and resilience in a traditionally male-dominated field. That same commitment carried me into higher education as a professor and into publishing as the author of the bestselling novel When the Men Were Gone, published in 2018.
I am deeply committed to inspiring young women to pursue success in any field they choose, regardless of whether it has historically been male dominated. As part of that mission, I am proud to be preparing for the launch of a women’s flag football league in Spring 2026, continuing my work to expand opportunities, visibility, and leadership for women in sports.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple but powerful: You can be the first at anything you seek to accomplish.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: never give up, never doubt yourself, and always follow your dreams.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field is balancing the responsibility of being present and accessible to everyone who needs me while also protecting time for my family. I care deeply about the work I do and the people I serve, and because I truly love what I do, the opportunity lies in finding sustainable ways to lead with passion while maintaining that balance.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me, both professionally and personally, are mentorship, service, and family. I place great importance on helping others grow and succeed, while also making meaningful time for my family. Outside of work, I value balance and joy—whether that’s bowling, traveling, or curling up with a good book.