Candace Storey Lee
Class of 2022
In May 2020, Candice Storey Lee shattered barriers and made history, becoming the first African-American woman to lead an athletic department in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Named both Athletic Director and Vice Chancellor at Vanderbilt University, Lee’s groundbreaking appointment was the culmination of a two-decade journey with the institution—a relationship that began when she was a student-athlete recruited from Bob Jones High School in Madison, Alabama.
As a basketball player at Vanderbilt, Lee excelled on the court while pursuing academic excellence, embodying the school’s commitment to both athletics and scholarship. “I’ve always been attracted to the unique proposition of Vanderbilt,” she said, reflecting on her decision to attend. “It’s a place where great academics and athletics can intersect.” Her passion for the university and its mission laid the foundation for her return in administrative roles, ultimately leading to her historic appointment.
Lee’s leadership philosophy is rooted in her desire to enhance the student-athlete experience. “It’s rewarding to have an opportunity to influence someone at a critical time in their life,” she has said, emphasizing her commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals. Competing in the highly demanding SEC, she strives to balance Vanderbilt’s academic rigor with athletic success, setting a standard for college athletics that aligns with the school’s values.
Born into a military family, Lee credits her upbringing for instilling discipline and a strong work ethic. Her father, Willie Storey, played football at Alabama A&M before serving in the U.S. Army, including a tour in Operation Desert Storm. Both Lee and her brother Gerald grew up immersed in sports, carrying on their family’s athletic tradition.
Lee’s tenure as Athletic Director has been marked by a bold vision for Vanderbilt’s future. She has spearheaded efforts to improve facilities, strengthen athletic programs, and promote diversity and inclusion within the department. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Lee is deeply rooted in her family life. She and her husband, Sean Lee, live in Nashville with their son Andrew, where she continues to inspire those around her.
Candice Storey Lee’s journey from student-athlete to trailblazing leader is a testament to her unwavering dedication, resilience, and belief in the transformative power of sports. Her historic role is more than a personal milestone—it’s a beacon of progress for Vanderbilt, the SEC, and collegiate athletics as a whole.
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