Dawn Staley’s impact at South Carolina continues to extend far beyond the basketball court.
The Hall of Fame head coach and University of South Carolina vice president and athletics director recently returned to campus classrooms for a second semester of “Lessons in Leadership: the Dawn Staley Way,” a course that has quickly become one of the university’s most meaningful leadership offerings.
“Our students learn from the very best, starting from Day One,” the university shared in a statement. “So grateful to @staley05 for returning for a second semester of Lessons in Leadership: the Dawn Staley Way!”
Leadership Beyond the Game
The course gives students a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of the most accomplished leaders in sports. Staley’s resume includes multiple national championships, Olympic gold medals, and a legacy of developing players into leaders on and off the floor. But in the classroom, the focus shifts from wins and trophies to decision-making, accountability, resilience, and purpose.
Students in the course explore leadership through real-world experiences drawn from Staley’s career, including navigating pressure, building trust within teams, and responding to adversity. The class emphasizes values that transcend athletics and apply to business, education, public service, and everyday life.
Why the Course Matters
The return of the class for a second semester speaks to its early success and demand. Students are not just learning theory — they are engaging with lessons shaped by decades of experience at the highest level of competition. Staley’s teaching approach mirrors her coaching philosophy: lead with authenticity, prepare relentlessly, and serve something bigger than yourself.
By blending storytelling with practical guidance, Staley helps students understand how leadership is built over time, often through setbacks as much as success.
A Growing Legacy at South Carolina
Staley’s continued involvement in the academic side of the university reinforces her broader role at South Carolina. As both a coach and administrator, she remains deeply invested in student development, whether they wear a jersey or sit in a lecture hall.
Her decision to return for another semester highlights the university’s commitment to giving students access to transformative leadership experiences from figures who actively shape their fields.
Impact That Reaches Beyond Basketball
For students enrolled in the course, the experience is more than a class — it’s mentorship. For the university, it’s another example of how athletics and academics can intersect in powerful ways.
As Dawn Staley begins another semester of “Lessons in Leadership,” her influence continues to ripple across campus, reminding students that leadership isn’t just taught — it’s lived.
