When the Missouri State University Foundation publicly kicks off its new Bears WIN (Women’s Impact Network) program Feb. 28, former professional racing driver Danica Patrick will be part of the festivities.

She will speak at the 7 p.m. event at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. It is free and open to the public. Patrick’s appearance is made possible by presenting sponsor Physical Therapy Specialists Clinic – Mary and Jeff Schrag.

“As we rev up Bears WIN after a lot of hard work and planning, join us in hearing from an inspiring trailblazer,” said Brent Dunn, MSU Foundation executive director. “Danica has not only made a mark on the racetrack, but she has also paved the way for women’s empowerment.”

What is Bears WIN about

Bears WIN (and Grizzlies WIN on the West Plains campus) is a newly formed network of advocates honoring the impact of women in philanthropy. Members share their time, talent and resources to turn big ideas into measurable and meaningful change.

The network’s goal is to bring awareness and funding to some of the most pressing needs of MSU students. It aims to raise $500,000 by 2026 for three areas that affect students from all backgrounds:

• Mental wellness: Financial assistance for students seeking counseling or psychiatric services at Magers Health and Wellness Center.
• Degree completion: Help for students who have exhausted other areas of assistance, but still need financial support to complete a degree.
• Mental wellness and neurodiversity on the West Plains campus: Support for the ASCEND (Autism Support Can Empower New Directions) program for students on the autism disorders spectrum who are transitioning out of high school.

More about Patrick

At just 10 years old, Patrick’s racing career began after her parents bought her a go-kart. For over two decades, she succeeded in the male-dominated world of professional motorsports, breaking barriers and setting records.

With racing behind her, Patrick is now focused on her passions: good food, great wine, fitness and helping others achieve their goals.

She is an entrepreneur, business owner and author of the book, “Pretty Intense: The 90-Day Mind, Body and Food Plan that will absolutely Change Your Life.” It was made into a podcast also titled “Pretty Intense,” which she hosts.

Patrick covers F1, IndyCar and Nascar for Fox Sports, NBC Sports and Sky Sports.

Find out more about Bears WIN