Tampa, Florida – The United Soccer League today announced the appointment of Dr. Christopher Busey as Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Impact. Beginning in mid-March, Busey will work across his USL ecosystem to develop, execute and scale organizational diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging and community initiatives both internally and externally.
Busey has 10 years of experience researching and implementing equity-focused solutions in higher education and sport. Most recently, Busey, who was tenured associate professor at the University of Florida’s Center for Latin American Studies and School of Teaching and Learning, conducted her innovative DEI research, built her partnerships with innovative communities, Improved organizational culture for level stakeholders. He was previously an Assistant Professor at Kent State University and Texas State University.
In addition to his studies, Busey is also the CEO and founder of Level Field Sports. Level Field Sports is a research consulting firm focused on identifying and addressing barriers to entry into sports participation and coaching. He is a member of United Soccer Coaches and a USSF Licensed Youth Club Soccer Coach. Within United Soccer Coaches, Busey is a member of the Black Coach Advocacy Group and recently worked with colleagues to demonstrate how inequalities continue to affect access to the game for Black coaches and youth at all levels. We began building empirical insights and identifying potential solutions. to those structural barriers.
USL CEO Alec Papadakis said: “USL and our club are dedicated to making a real impact on our communities, and Chris’ expertise, achievements and reputation will enhance these efforts. The fact that we already share our passion for football is a huge bonus.”
Busey holds a PhD in Philosophy and an MA in Social Science Education from the University of Central Florida and a BA in Political Science and Mass Communication from the University of Florida. He has published over 20 of his academic papers, has been an invited keynote speaker or panelist at numerous national and international venues, and has received multiple grants in his field. He has also provided his leadership of sorts in articles for public agencies such as TIME Magazine, NBC News, and Orlando Sentinel. In 2020, the University of Florida awarded Busy the University-wide Diversity and Inclusion Award and Outstanding Achievement Award for his contributions to the DEI across the university and the local community.
“As a lifelong soccer fan, I look forward to combining my personal passion and expertise to build an inclusive culture for the USL,” said Busey. “We have the opportunity to establish and maintain programs, policies and relationships that promote sustainable, equitable excellence and have tangible impact on so many communities. As we continue to shape the future, we want it to reflect and celebrate the diversity of both this country and the global game.”
