Head Women's Track and Field Coach | Illinois Wesleyan Titans Website
Head Women's Track and Field Coach | Illinois Wesleyan Titans Website
In recognition of the 50th anniversary of NCAA Division III, Illinois Wesleyan University is celebrating its athletic history with a monthly series. Among those highlighted is Marissa Hagler, a junior hurdler on the women's track and field team. Recently, Hagler traveled to Cambridge, Massachusetts, to participate in the inaugural Female Founder's Circle at Harvard University.
Hagler was invited to present her podcast "Hurdling Through Hard Times" at the event organized by Harvard Women in Entrepreneurship. The conference aimed to provide young female entrepreneurs with insights and feedback from experienced professionals. Hagler's involvement was facilitated by John Quarton, Director of The Petrick Idea Center at Illinois Wesleyan, who encouraged her to apply for the conference.
The event included workshops focused on building entrepreneurial confidence and excelling as a female in business. Cindy Gallop, a renowned brand innovator and founder of two companies, delivered a keynote speech emphasizing networking. "It is not who you know, but who knows you," Gallop stated during her address.
Reflecting on her experience, Hagler noted the importance of being recognized by others: "It is the people who find out about you." She also participated in a pitch competition judged by industry leaders. "A lot of what they told me was about my business plan," said Hagler.
"Hurdling Through Hard Times" began in 2021 as Hagler's way to express her experiences with anxiety and depression while transitioning from high school to college. Over time, she expanded her podcast into merchandise like keychains and t-shirts aimed at promoting mental health awareness.
Hagler balances multiple roles including student-athlete responsibilities, student teaching, sorority membership, and volunteering as a coach. Her podcast has been recognized as one of Illinois' Top 10 Mental Health Podcasts by FeedSpot.
For more information about Hagler's podcast and related resources, visit https://hurdlingthroughhardtimes.myshopify.com/.
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