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Anne Doepner
Inclusion | Culture Change Driver | Thought Leader
Professional Background
Anne Doepner is an accomplished leader currently serving as the Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at the Minnesota Vikings, where she spearheads the development and implementation of DEI strategies across the organization, ensuring that diversity and inclusion are woven into the fabric of the team's culture. With over four years in this pivotal role, Anne has become a key figure in the sports industry, advocating for a culture of belonging for all stakeholders, including senior leadership, employees, and community partners.
In her capacity as the Senior Director, Anne utilizes her skills in social networking, operations, and marketing communications to foster collaboration and innovation within DEI initiatives. Her dedication to advancing DEI extends beyond the Vikings, as she actively participates in various industry events and discussions aimed at driving positive change and promoting inclusivity in sports.
Anne's expertise and commitment to DEI are further demonstrated through her leadership role as the Chairwoman of WISE (Women in Sports and Events) Twin Cities since 2018. In this position, she oversees the board of directors, membership, and programming, empowering women in the sports industry and creating platforms for professional development and networking.
Education and Achievements
Anne Doepner's academic journey began at the College of Saint Benedict, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in French and Communication. Her diverse educational background laid the foundation for her career in the sports and events sector, allowing her to develop strong communication skills and a deep understanding of cultural nuances. Additionally, she has pursued professional development opportunities, earning a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate from the USF Corporate Training and Professional Education, which complements her mission of fostering equitable environments in the sports industry.
Recognitions
Anne's contributions to the community and her field have not gone unnoticed. In 2020, she was honored as a Women in Business Honoree, celebrating her outstanding achievements and influence in promoting diversity and inclusion. Furthermore, in 2023, she was recognized as an SBJ All In Leader in DEI, solidifying her reputation as a thought leader in this vital area of focus.
Speaking Engagements
As a passionate advocate for DEI, Anne is also a sought-after public speaker. She shares her insights on DEI, leadership, career development, and sports management at various prestigious events and institutions, including the NFL Women's Summit, the WISE National Symposium, and Cornell College. Her engaging style and wealth of knowledge make her talks both inspirational and educational, resonating with a wide audience.
Skills and Strengths
Anne Doepner brings a diverse set of competencies to her roles, including expertise in operations, marketing communications, and public speaking. Rated highly on CliftonStrengths, her top five attributes include being futuristic, woo (winning others over), restorative, includer, and significance-oriented. These strengths drive her vision of creating a more equitable and inclusive world in sports and events, reflecting her commitment to making a lasting impact.
As a bilingual professional, Anne is fluent in both English and French, enabling her to connect with a wider audience and contribute to diverse teams and initiatives. Her innovative approaches to DEI and her extensive background in sports administration serve not only to elevate the Minnesota Vikings' organizational culture but also to inspire others to pursue inclusive practices in their own fields.
Legacy and Future
Through her role at the Minnesota Vikings and her leadership in WISE, Anne Doepner continues to leave a remarkable impact on the landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion in sports. Her ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all stakeholders in the sports community inspires both current and future generations.
Anne's trajectory showcases the importance of intentional efforts in diversity and inclusion, emphasizing that through collaboration, education, and innovation, the sports industry can become a beacon of equity and opportunity. As she looks towards the future, Anne remains dedicated to advocating for equitable practices while inspiring her colleagues and peers to prioritize and implement DEI initiatives within their own organizations.