ORLANDO, Fla. (July 30, 2025) - The Greater Orlando Sports Commission announced their finalists for the Rising Star Award on Thursday as part of their celebration of women in sports. Among the eleven finalists was Rollins own
Kelly Dwyer, who serves as Compliance Officer in the athletic department.
Dwyer has been on the Tars' staff for a little over a year, but has had a monumental impact on the department already. Part of her job is to oversee the eligibility of nearly 500 student-athletes on campus, making sure each is cleared for NCAA participation. She stays in constant communication with players and coaches to help maintain eligibility standards. Dwyer has also taken the lead on the transition to Teamworks, a new software program that will make communication between coaches, staff, and athletes much easier. In addition, her positive energy flows throughout the office in the Alfond Sports Center as she takes the time to greet and chat every coach and staff member each day.
"Kelly has transformed our department with her positive attitude and responsiveness," stated Associate Vice President of Athletics
Pennie Parker. "She is always willing to take on any task, and does so with a smile and incredible energy."
While still fairly new to Rollins, Dwyer is no stranger to Central Florida. She played softball at Seminole State College, and graduated from the DeVos Sports Business Masters program at UCF.
Other finalists for the Rising Star award include team members from Orlando City/Pride, Orlando Valkyries, UCF, Experience Kissimmee, Special Olympics Florida, Orlando Health, Florida Citrus Sports, Advent Health, and the Orlando Magic.
GOSports will host the 2025 Celebrating Women in Sports luncheon on September 17, celebrating the accomplishments of female employees in the Central Florida area. The Rising Star award recognizes a female employee who has had significant impact under the age of 30, while the Leadership Award highlights those in crucial roles who have excelled in leading their teams. Former gold medal Olympian Misty May-Treanor will be the keynote speaker at the event.
