December 6, 2024 • 31 mins
Join hosts Charles Schelle and Dana Rampolla on “The UMB Pulse” podcast as they dive into an enlightening conversation with Tamika Tremaglio, JD ’95, MBA, a distinguished alumna of the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law.
Tremaglio shares her journey from managing risk and compliance at Deloitte to leading the National Basketball Players Association and steering her new enterprise, TA Sports Ventures. The discussion covers a range of topics including player salaries, mental health in sports, and the evolution of sports in the Middle East. Tremaglio’s insights on leadership, authenticity, and giving back to the community offer valuable lessons for current students and alumni alike.
00:00 Introduction: Athletes Beyond the Game
01:04 The Business of Sports: Salaries, Mental Health, and More
01:51 Spotlight on Tamika Tremaglio: Career and Contributions
03:13 Tamika's Journey: From Law School to Leadership
04:19 Memorable Mentors and Courses at Maryland Carey Law
05:39 Career Path: From Risk Management to Pro Sports
07:57 The Importance of Teamwork and Strategy
09:51 Empowering Women in Sports: WNBA
11:31 Collective Bargaining and Player Advocacy
14:06 TA Sports Ventures: Reimagining the Sports Industry
15:24 Global Opportunities in Sports
17:26 Mental Health Advocacy in Sports
21:01 Leadership and Authenticity
26:22 Giving Back to UMB and Future Plans
29:42 Conclusion: Reflecting on the Journey
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Charles S (00:00):
when you watch a game on tv, maybe it's football from this past
(00:04):
sunday, or maybe it's a basketball game.
Are you thinking a lot more about playerssalaries instead of their statistics?
Dana Rampolla (00:16):
I think as a mom, I actually think about them as
the athletes as human beings.
Like, like they mightbe playing a great game.
They're really well known fortheir offense or their defense.
And Just watching them grow as a player,but as a mom, I sit back and I think, boy,
many of these people have come into a lotof money in professional sports and who
(00:40):
is helping guide them and helping themfigure out, like, how to be responsible
with their own personal finances, theirpersonal lifestyle as it relates to
them being such big public figures.
Is that kind of what you mean?
Charles (00:56):
I was actually thinking about fantasy sports because of salary
caps and everything, but you know what?
That's a really good point, though.
Players need to look after themselves,because this is a big business, sports,
whether it's in the NBA, the NFL, MajorLeague Baseball , When it's time for
negotiations between players and theowners, it's probably the least favorite
(01:21):
time to be a fan, not knowing if there'sgoing to be work stoppage or a strike.
But there's so much more tothink about, just the salary.
Mental health is so big in sportsright now with the players taking
time out to look after themselves.
You have to think about, Their name imageand likeness now for college players.
(01:41):
So a big part of that the players unions,and we have a interesting connection
here at University of Maryland Baltimore
Dana Rampolla (01:50):
we do.
We do.
We have a woman who graduated from theUniversity of Maryland, Francis King
Carey School of Law, Tamika Tremaglio.
She was a 1995 graduate.
She also obtained her MBA downthe street at UB, University of
Baltimore, at about the same time.
She spent 26 years in consulting.
She was a managing principal forDeloitte's Greater Washington Practice.
(02:13):
She left there and she followed thatup with, by leading the National
Basketball Players Association orthe NBPA as its executive director.
She served there from January2022 through November 2023 and she
helped the players ink in a newcollective bargaining agreement.
And now she is the managing partnerof her own company, TA Sports Ventures
Charles Schelle (02:35):
So get ready.
It's time for the tip offof the UMB Pulse podcast.
You're listening to the heartbeatof the University of Maryland
Baltimore, the UMB Pulse.
Dana Rampolla (02:57):
Tamika, welcome to the UMB Pulse.
We are so glad to have you here.
Tamika Tre (03:02):
Hello, good morning.
Thank you very much.
Dana Rampolla (03:04):
And after a busy holiday weekend, I'm sure we're all
spinning our wheels this morning,ready to jump into the new week.
So let's start spinning ourwheels on the Pulse today.
Tell us a little bit about yourtime at the University of Maryland
Francis King Carey School of Lawand how your experiences shaped
your career in law and business.
Tamika Trema (03:23):
Yeah, so thank you very much and thank you for having me.
It is such a privilege to be here today.
I'm incredibly grateful.
So thank you.
But coming off of the Thanksgivingholiday, you're exactly right.
It's a reminder of how grateful we are.
And of course, the University of MarylandCarey Law School is one of the things
that I am incredibly grateful for.
One, because it really gave me theopportunity to do something that
(03:45):
I'd always dreamed about doing.
My father said at the age offive, I was going to be a lawyer.
And so Obviously had to get that done,but then also, I really love the business
side and, you know, 30 years ago, which Ican't believe it's been almost 30 years.
There wasn't a thing of people doinga law degree and an MBA together.
And so I was one of the first peopleto sort of take that on and it was
(04:08):
incredibly challenging, but I thinkthe reason that I love the So,
Charle (04:19):
Did you have a memorable course or professor at Maryland Carey Law?
Tamika Tremaglio (04:24):
Yeah.
So thinking back, I had theprivilege of having so many
people that I really admired.
So we had what you called sortof, I remember in elementary
school, you had a homeroom, butwe had sort of this base class.
So I was section G.
I still remember that.
And professor Tanya Banks, who wasamazing and really helped me with,
(04:47):
you know, sort of that sufferingimposter syndrome of, do I belong here?
Do I know what I'm doing, et cetera.
And so I just love her.
I also had Professor Larry Gibson,who was amazing, our civil procedures
professor, who is still here and does somany things with us and does so much with
the law school and so much to give back.
And so I still have the privilegeof being able to work with him.
(05:09):
The interesting sort of tidbit ishe actually Family from Southern
Maryland, which I did not know at thetime that I went to law school, but
very, very close family membersand didn't know that then.
So everything sort of comes full circle.
So I'm grateful.
Charles Schelle (05:24):
Small world, Smaltimore, right?
Yes.
That's right.
So, as you mentioned, you've earneddegrees in law and the MBA at University
of Baltimore down the street, and nowyou're managing TA Sports Ventures,
which we'll talk about later.
But you've built your experienceand career in risk management
and compliance to start off with.
(05:44):
Did you think that specialty was goingto lead you into the world of pro sports?
Tamika Tre (05:49):
Yeah, so no, I think you know that's the big part of this.
It's all about the journey, right?
No one sort of knows whatwill get you where you end.
But the reality is, I think,you know, my mom would say
any road will take you there.
And that's precisely true.
And this particular instance,I had done a lot of work.
In the sports businessthrough risk and compliance.
(06:11):
So one of my first engagements was withthe NFL PA and looking at their overall
structure and risk assessment, et cetera,under the leadership of DeMora Smith.
Then I went on to do work with the NBPA.
So the National Basketball Association.
Well, players association, andthat was with a corporate internal
investigation back in 2011 time period,and then later went on with a WNBPA
(06:34):
to help them with their organizationalstructure as well as with their
collective bargaining agreement.
So, you know, while it was all part ofwhat I had the base for doing, having a
law background and a business backgroundto assist them in the CBA, it was
certainly not what I had anticipatedor the direction that I would go in.
Dana Rampolla (06:53):
Well, growing up, were you a big sports fan?
Tamika Tremaglio (06:56):
I always was a big sports fan.
And I appreciate Dana that you saidfan because I was a cheerleader.
I was never one that was incredibly goodum,
in terms of playing basketball orfootball or any of those things.
But I always loved cheering on peopleand I always loved championing them.
And to some extent, that's what Ifound myself doing even later in life.
Dana Rampolla (07:17):
Oh, that's fun.
And , who were you rooting for back then?
Tamika Tremaglio (07:20):
Well, it was at that time.
It was the Redskins.
Now the Commanders.
So it's big Commanders fan.
It was also the Bullets.
Now the Wizards.
God, I do feel old.
You know, it's interesting.
I'm like, wow.
But it has been, they've always, youknow, sort of a local and the community
and always been a part of that.
So I'm grateful to actually stillbe Commanders and Wizards fans.
(07:42):
I, I now can say that now that Iam not the executive director of
the National Basketball PlayersAssociation, I was always told then that.
All of the teams, everyplayer, was always my favorite.
But now I'm comfortable saying that Igrew up a Wizards and a Commanders fan.
Dana Rampolla (07:56):
That's great.
Well, what is one lesson that youcan share with our listeners about
teamwork or strategy that stands outfrom your time at the NBPA as well
as working with the WNBA players?
Tamika Tremaglio (08:08):
Yeah, so for certain, there is no I in team, right?
And, you know, I remember a long timeago saying that I always want to surround
myself with people that are smarterthan I am, that are greater than I
am, that can bring more to the table.
And I think to some extent, peopleare a little insecure with having
people around them that can domore or bring other skill sets.
(08:30):
And the reality is, I knowthat's what truly works.
So whether it was in my career atDeloitte, where, you know, we could bring
in economists, and we could bring inlaw enforcement, and we could bring in
interpreters, it's really critical thatwe are sort of amongst a diverse team of
individuals that makes the whole greater.
And so when I think about the lessons,it's one big, Being true to who you
(08:51):
are, authentic in who you are, butalso making sure that you are learning
continuously from other people thathelp you all be a lot stronger and
remembering to enjoy the journey.
I think I have always been a personthat has thought about the next thing.
I'm learning later in life that I'm ahyperachiever and those individuals are
people who want to do more, continuouslywant to do more, want to achieve more.
(09:14):
And so, I think that's what I've learned.
As I'm now kind of settlinginto myself, I think at the
age of 54, it took a long time.
And I've kind of come comfortable with it.
I've learned that it's important that youenjoy every single step of the journey.
As when I was an associate, all Ithought about was when I become partner.
When I was a partner, all Icould think about is when I
could become managing partner.
(09:35):
When I was working on behalf of the NBPA,all you could think about is how can you
lead the NBPA as opposed to actually beingpresent in that moment and being excited.
I think it's so important that weenjoy the moment and enjoy the journey.
.
Charles Schelle (09:51):
Speaking of enjoying the kind of steals the headlines a little bit
and your career trajectory and resume.
And you also mentioned the WNBA too.
These players really have hadtheir moment in this past year.
And.
With breakout stars like Baltimore'sown Angel Reese, and then you have
(10:12):
Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark.
You're instrumental in that 2020 CBA.
Now fast forward with that big moment,they're poised to capitalize . And
in their short careers, they'reopting out looking for a better
deal to advocate for themselves.
So you have to be thrilled forthese athletes getting their due
publicly, you know, and continuingto raise the bar for other women.
(10:36):
Yes,no, I absolutely am thrilled.
And as you mentioned, Charles, in 2020,I was involved with the CBA and it was
the first time ever that we actuallyinstituted an opportunity for the
players to get a portion of revenue.
So, you know, the men had that for sometime, which is, you know, obviously
led to their tremendous success.
The women, this was the very first time.
(10:57):
And now we are seeing where thatcould actually come to fruition,
, people are excited about them.
The arenas are being filled withindividuals that want to see them play.
I love hearing about them being sold out.
It is time.
And I am so grateful thatthey are actually seeing it.
It's time to capitalize on it, whether ornot it's the players individually, whether
(11:19):
or not it's individuals who want toinvest in teams as we see the W expanding.
That will be significant as well.
So it is.
It's grateful to be a part ofand grateful to certainly be a
part of the history of our women.
Charle (11:31):
Yeah, I wanted to follow up with one related point to it, which
is the common theme throughout sports.
It's very complicated withcollective bargaining, right?
I'm a huge sports fan.
I've had to learn about CBA more thanI probably wanted to as an average
sports fan in the different leagues.
But at the end of the day,these are young men and women.
(11:53):
In their 20s and 30s, sometimes, youknow, early 40s, if they're lucky to
extend their careers and that has to besuch a task to, to give that education
to this population and realize howmuch power they have in their hands
and how big of a task they have tosolving these really complicated issues.
You know, labor rights dealsand workers rights deals.
(12:14):
But I guess that's where you step in andthe player agents too, to help kind of
explain all the legalese what impactsthem at the end of the day, right?
Audio Only (12:23):
Yes, no, absolutely.
So, you know, the last CBA, ofcourse, with the men was completed
in 2023 and we had about 18months to actually get that done.
It's daunting to your point.
It is over 700 pages.
It encompasses.
It covers everything.
So from a workload management, if youwill, perspective to the number of
(12:44):
hours that they get to sleep to the,you know, time period in between games.
I mean, it covers everything how they arecompensated, which tends to be what people
focus on, but a lot of this is about thewell being of the players and how they
can offer the most back to the community.
The other piece is it's soimportant that we look at our
players as more than just players.
(13:08):
And for me, that was something thatwas critically important because as I
thought about how the fans engage withthe players, it was important that they
recognize that our players had an and.
So I would always say to theplayers, what's your and?
Because we have players that arefathers, that are brothers, that are
spouses, that are professionals, that,you know, have graduate degrees, etc.
(13:29):
And.
All of that makes up the wholeperson and because people are so
thoughtful about them as athletes,they forget about them as human beings.
And the CBA covers a lot of that.
So it is beyond just howthey're being compensated.
While it's a tremendous part of it, it'sabout, you know, how the league is going
to make money, how the agents are engaged.
(13:50):
It covers everything from zero to 100.
Dana Rampolla (13:56):
Wow.
A lot that we don't think aboutjust sitting on a Sunday afternoon
watching a football game.
Tamika Tremaglio (14:01):
Yes, you're absolutely right.
Dan (14:03):
Well, Tamika, you've turned your sights into something different now.
You're taking a different path and you'rea managing partner at TA Sports Ventures.
Tell us what that is andwhat your mission is there.
Audio Only - All Participa (14:15):
Yes.
So it's been quite thejourney, as you have said.
So yes, TA Sports Ventures, which isnow our own company, we are really
focused on re imagining sports.
So as you can imagine, we have Spenta lot of time seeing different things.
So now we are in a booming sports industrythat encompasses sports betting, that
(14:35):
encompasses eSports, that encompasses NILfor college players that so name, image,
and likeness for our college players.
It's now a global sport as well.
Even American football is global,you know, outside of the U.
S.
And so how are we capturing that there?
So I've had the privilege of doing somework in the Middle East and looking
at, you know how we can bring sportsthere, even major league fishing.
(14:58):
And how could we bring fishingto other parts of the world?
So it has been amazing for me because I'vealways thought about what can reimagine
sports now that private equity has becomea part of it now that there's so much So
many things that are encompassing sports.
It really is a great timeto capitalize on that.
So that's what TA sports venturesis doing is looking at all of the
(15:20):
opportunities that exist throughout theworld to reimagine the game of sports.
Charles Sche (15:24):
You mentioned that the Middle East, I was wondering
what excited you about thatmarket and what makes sense there.
There has been, as you mentioned, alot of Investment from different funds
around the world that are now ableto tap into North American sports.
Tamika (15:39):
You're absolutely right.
And I think what attracts me tothe Middle East, it's twofold.
One is I had the privilege in servingas executive director that we had our
global games in Abu Dhabi, which washonestly my first time to the Middle East
and seeing the excitement throughout theworld for our game, seeing the excitement
throughout the world for our players.
(16:01):
It opened up an entirely new worldand learning about all of the things
that they were doing there and quitefrankly, just learning about how
sort of underdeveloped they were interms of sports even more broadly.
So when you look at soccer when you lookat, you know, American football, all of
these things is very unique, and they arereally excited about it sort of bringing
it into their culture more broadly.
(16:22):
So even as they look at wellness.
So when you look in Dubai, and they havetheir 2030 vision, a lot of that is about
wellness and people getting engaged inactivities outside and doing sports.
And so understanding how you can be apart of that and to build that in a place
where that hasn't been the priority, It'sreally exciting to me because we take
it for granted that we have high schoolcompetitions and things like that aren't
(16:45):
happening on a daily basis in the MiddleEast, and they really want to be able to
be a part of the American culture as well.
And I also have found that, youknow, Oftentimes we do not know or
understand enough about the Middle East.
And so to the extent that not onlyare we giving them an opportunity to
learn more and to be engaged in ourculture, we also have the opportunity
(17:09):
to be engaged in their culture.
People always say, ignorance is blissto some extent, but at the end of
the day, ignorance is just ignorance.
And so being able to get outthere and getting exposed to other
people in other cultures to me issignificantly, it's a significant.
Opportunity for all of us.
Dana Ramp (17:26):
A couple minutes ago, you mentioned seeing players as people,
not just as athletes, and you justmentioned wellness, and that brings to
mind, you have done some work in the areaof mental health challenges that, with
the athletes that you've worked with.
Can you tell us a little bit abouthow that shaped your advocacy efforts
and the changes you've championedfor those folks in the industry?
Tamika Trem (17:48):
To be honest, a lot of it started well before going to the
National Basketball Players Association.
So I learned that, you know, atDeloitte around sort of bringing
your authentic self to work.
And so we launched a business of kindnesscampaign, which was in my way, a way
of trying to recognize that, , we don'tknow what anyone is going through on
any given day and how important it wasin the business community to be kind.
(18:12):
And so it Obviously, going intothe National Basketball Players
Association, I recognized that one,kindness was critically important, and
we didn't always see that of our fans.
But I also understood that our men weregoing through a lot, like the pressure,
not only on the court, but off the court.
And being part of a union, one of thefocus, a part of what we did, which
(18:34):
people didn't always appreciate,was that we were involved with them.
On and off the court, which meantthat mental health and the things
that they were being approached withevery day were significant to them.
And so, as a result, we have a anentire department that was led by Dr.
Parham that really focused onour players, mental health.
(18:55):
At all stages.
So as a rookie and you're comingin to the NBA as you know, someone
who's close to retirement and howyou transition, you know, we really
spent a lot of time with them, makingsure that they were well, because
they could only be their best selveson the court when other
things were going well too.
(19:15):
And I think people forget about,you know, all of the things that
kind of keep us back from things.
So physically, you know, theyare the greatest athletes in the
world, but we can only bring thebest of ourselves physically when
mentally we are in a great place.
And so we had our first evermental health symposium back
in September of 2024, actually.
(19:36):
And that was critically important becauseit brought something to the table that
people had really not talked about.
And the players are such tremendousexamples to Everyone, whether it's
young men in school, whether it'syoung women, and they want to hear
that it's okay to not be okay.
And our players were talking about that.
And I think it's so critically important.
(19:58):
You know, a lot of that I learnedthrough working with Lady Gaga
on the Born This Way Foundation,where they really felt that.
It was a natural progression to be ableto do that at the NBPA, and it's one
of the things that I'm most proud of,but it's also one of the things that I
will carry with me is recognizing, youknow, all of the struggles that many
(20:20):
of our players were going through andhow we could really be helpful to them.
Dana Rampolla (20:25):
Great.
And a huge Lady Gaga fan here.
Tamika Tremag (20:27):
So yeah, she does so much in the community.
Really does.
I'm grateful that people are, youknow, recognize her in that way.
Dan (20:36):
And I think, is it her mom?
That's a big part of that.
Tamika Tremagli (20:38):
Yes, so Cynthia Germinato, who is her mother, she and Lady
Gaga founded Born This Way Foundation.
And so with that, they focus on, youknow, mental health, particularly
mental health in the youth population,which has just been tremendous.
I'm just delighted to beable to be a part of it.
It's a privilege to watch, butI've certainly learned so much
from that responsibility as well.
Dana Rampolla (21:00):
That's great.
Well, it sounds like with everythingyou have going on, you're definitely
a leader who knows not just who youare, but how to excel and accomplish
the things you want to in all ofthese different parts of your life.
How would you describe your approachto leadership and what advice would you
give our alumni or any other listeners?
Tamika Tremaglio (21:20):
I mentioned, obviously, enjoying the journey.
I also appreciate that bringing,you know, diverse skill sets and
thinking is critically important.
I am absolutely a collaborative leaderthat I do want to hear from other people.
I never go into somethingthinking that I know it all.
All I think it's important that werecognize, you know, our strengths,
(21:40):
certainly, but recognize, youknow, where we have weaknesses and
others can help to fill those gaps.
I just think that is socritically important and it
is not seen as a weakness.
I also think being authentic,being an authentic.
Authentic leader, you know, thenpeople feel like they can come to you
and talk to you that they can expressconcerns that they can feel free to
(22:01):
voice their opinions about things.
It's so important that we do that.
And then lastly, I will always say thatI always want to be transformational.
I always want to think outside of the box.
I want to bring new ideas.
And there are lots of people that canexecute on things that have been given.
It's those unique leaders that canexecute on things that are just
(22:22):
thoughts, you know, or visionsthat they can bring to life.
Charles Schelle (22:26):
With being an authentic leader I love that
mode of thought and mode ofleadership because it's really can
be disarming for people and makethem feel more at ease and relaxed.
I was wondering if you canshare maybe one way you do
that being an authentic leader.
Tamika Tremaglio (22:41):
Yeah.
So for sure, I think COVIDhelped us all to do that, right?
Because now you're in people's homes.
You can see their family, their kids.
There's interruptions.
And so that for certain does that.
I think also sort of showingwhere you're vulnerable, right?
I often talk about the impostersyndrome, and even, you know, being
Chairman of the Board at the Universityof Maryland Carey Law School.
(23:03):
I've talked to our students aboutthe imposter syndrome and how
I have felt like an imposter.
Not to suggest that, you know, I am lessthan Then because I think Harvard Business
Review talks so often about, you know,women stop saying that, you know, you
have the imposter syndrome because thereare times that we are made to feel less
than and we have to recognize that, youknow, I think they call it gaslighting.
(23:25):
Right?
But at the same time, I think it'sappropriate to tell people that, you
know, your heart's palpitating becauseyou're wondering if you are enough.
If you're wondering if you're doingthe right thing, if you're wondering if
someone thinks that you're smart enoughor, you know, belong in this room, etc.
And I think when you do thatand you can allow yourself to be
vulnerable, people open up to you.
I wrote a letter to my younger selfright before I became the managing
(23:48):
partner of Deloitte and I was convinced.
That then there was no way they weregoing to choose me for that role.
But the reality, it was just theopposite because people needed
to feel like they could relate.
And it was so important for peopleto be able to relate to leaders.
We talk about when youcan see it, you can be it.
And that's what people need now is theyneed to see it so that they can be, if
(24:11):
they don't need this facade put up and,you know, acting like life is Perfect.
And things go very smoothly, right?
They need to know when there are momentsof weakness so that they can understand
that they're human too, but yet theycan still get to those same roles or
they can aspire to do certain things.
I think that's so critically important.
Charles Schell (24:30):
You're so right.
everyone has gotten past the type ofleader or, or dealing with that leader at
work who says everything is fine, but thenyou see the flames in the background as
they're drinking the coffee at the desk.
Right.
One of
Tamika (24:43):
my, one of my colleagues used to tell me that they would see me.
They're like, I think you're like a duck,like you're in a pond and you're just.
You know, floating across and your legsare underneath like feverishly moving
because that's exactly what life is like.
And you got to tell people like,I'm barely staying afloat here.
I'm getting through things.
So I think that's so incredibly important.
(25:04):
And you know, I think having goneto University of Maryland Carey
Law, I think we could do that.
And now our focus honestly has beenon making sure that students feel
included, that they're a part of things.
Our professors, we talk a lot about,you know, being there for each other.
So, you know, one of the things thatwe mentioned was that Born This Way
(25:25):
Foundation, one of the things that theydo is they have a Be There Certificate
and it's about being there for oneanother and recognizing when other people
are having mental health challenges.
So our professors are goingto be a part of that program.
They're going to be certified in it.
We're going to ask our studentsto be a part of it because
life can be challenging.
And we recognize as we look at the mentalhealth of our graduate students, of all
(25:47):
of our students, it's important that we'rethere for each other and recognize when
Other people are going through challenges.
When someone breaks their leg,we get up, we give them a seat.
When someone is going through mentalhealth challenges, we always aren't
recognizing it, but it also requiresthat a person feels comfortable being
authentic, but that you're also feelingcomfortable with recognizing when
their authenticity leads to places thatcould be really challenging for them.
(26:12):
So I'm excited because the University ofMaryland Carey Law School has taken that
on and sees it as a big part of what theydo, and it's so critically important.
Charles Schelle (26:21):
Can't wait to hear more about that.
You've mentioned how much youhave stayed connected to UMB.
As you mentioned uh, Chairwoman of theBoard of Visitors for Maryland Carey Law.
I've know I've seen you atcampus events here and there.
So what's been the most rewardingpart about giving back to the school,
whether it's your time or initiativesyou, you've worked on beyond the
(26:43):
ones that you've mentioned already?
Tamika Tremaglio (26:45):
I am a strong believer that to whom much is given,
much is expected, and I cannot tellyou the amount of joy that I get in
being there amongst the students.
I remember what those days were like,and I think it's so important that
we're there to have the discussions,to make the connections for them,
to, you know, give them hope.
(27:06):
I mentioned earlier, you know, goingto the law school a couple of weeks
ago when talking about the impostersyndrome and having students come to
me with tears in their eyes, both malesand females, both black and white,
just the experiences that they've had.
And I will tell you that day I satin my car, I had to pause because
I thought, gosh, I'm so grateful.
(27:27):
One that they've heard about it.
A much younger age than when I learnedabout it, but to that they felt like
they were comfortable enough coming tome and talking to me about it because
we just take so many things for granted.
You know, whether or not it'syou know, people were talking
about clerkships or law review.
Things like that we.
It's not something that you automaticallytake for granted and the reality is
(27:49):
they didn't grow up around the tablewith parents who were lawyers and they
weren't talking about this every day.
And so, getting the opportunityfor them to hear about it, to
understand career paths, I thinkjust makes a huge difference.
So, I have gained much more than I couldever give in this role for certain,
and honestly, it's really a giftand a privilege to be a part of it.
Dana Rampoll (28:09):
Tamika, along with what you're saying, there are a number
and thank you, first and foremost,for all that you have given back to
UMB, but there are also a number ofother ways that students and alumni
could tap in at the university.
Any thoughts on that?
Tamika Trem (28:23):
there are many ways as alumni that we can give back, whether
it's our time, talent, our treasure.
So certainly from a time perspective,even if it's something very quickly,
like a 15 minute tea on zoom or, youknow, coffee with a student just to
give them the exposure that they need.
Or it's with your talent.
We have such tremendous individuals atthe University of Maryland Cary Law.
(28:45):
So our illustrious Dean, ReneeHutchins Laurent, who leads our
university is doing an amazing job.
We have Shara Boonshaft, who'sthere, who is really focused
on elevating the university.
And then we even have a associate Dean,Erica Smith, who focuses on student
services and mental health and the whole.
Hold this of the individual.
(29:06):
All of that is really significantand as alumni, you can play
a part, play a role in that.
And of course, there's always opportunityto give her our treasure, whether
it's something small, a cup of coffeeor whether it's something large or
something that you do collectively.
I know our class of 1995 islooking for a way to actually
have a student scholarship.
So we're pooling our resourcesto be able to actually give
(29:29):
a scholarship to a student.
So there are many ways inwhich alumni can be helpful.
Dana Rampolla (29:34):
It's great advice for all of the schools here at
UMB too, not just the law school.
Tamika, as we wrap up, where doyou see your impact growing next?
You've done so much, you're involvedwith so much now what are the next
five or ten years look like for you?
Tamika Tremaglio (29:49):
Data, that is a great question.
And in my authentic way, I willsay I, I don't actually know.
But what I do know right now is that I amreally enjoying the journey that I am on.
I am trying to be very present inEach and every day, I am taking
the time to be still, which Ihave never done in my entire life.
(30:12):
So I am hoping that whatever elseI continue to do, that it will
be just an opportunity to buildupon the things that I have been
so privileged to receive to date.
So I'm really excited about the nextthings, but also remembering to be
really here in the present moment.
But I would bet if I were to you know,Hypothesize that it'll be something
(30:32):
global, that it'll be something involvedwith the community, a way in which I
can really play to all of my strengths.
Charles Schelle (30:40):
Well, it has certainly been a privilege
for us talking to you, Tamika.
You are definitely one of theshining lights of UMB and Marilyn
Carey Law, and it's been incrediblehearing what you've been up to and
what you're about to be up to soon.
So, definitely take time for yourselfand your family during the holidays,
and we hope you have a happy new year.
(31:03):
And thank you for joiningus on the UMB Pulse.
Tamika Tre (31:06):
Thank you very much.
Thank you for having me
Jena (31:13):
The UMB Pulse with Charles Schelle and Dana Rampolla is a UMB
Office of Communications and PublicAffairs production, edited by Charles
Schelle marketing by Dana Rampolla.
when you watch a game on tv, maybe it's football from this past
(00:04):
sunday, or maybe it's a basketball game.
Are you thinking a lot more about playerssalaries instead of their statistics?
Dana Rampolla (00:16):
I think as a mom, I actually think about them as
the athletes as human beings.
Like, like they mightbe playing a great game.
They're really well known fortheir offense or their defense.
And Just watching them grow as a player,but as a mom, I sit back and I think, boy,
many of these people have come into a lotof money in professional sports and who
(00:40):
is helping guide them and helping themfigure out, like, how to be responsible
with their own personal finances, theirpersonal lifestyle as it relates to
them being such big public figures.
Is that kind of what you mean?
Charles (00:56):
I was actually thinking about fantasy sports because of salary
caps and everything, but you know what?
That's a really good point, though.
Players need to look after themselves,because this is a big business, sports,
whether it's in the NBA, the NFL, MajorLeague Baseball , When it's time for
negotiations between players and theowners, it's probably the least favorite
(01:21):
time to be a fan, not knowing if there'sgoing to be work stoppage or a strike.
But there's so much more tothink about, just the salary.
Mental health is so big in sportsright now with the players taking
time out to look after themselves.
You have to think about, Their name imageand likeness now for college players.
(01:41):
So a big part of that the players unions,and we have a interesting connection
here at University of Maryland Baltimore
Dana Rampolla (01:50):
we do.
We do.
We have a woman who graduated from theUniversity of Maryland, Francis King
Carey School of Law, Tamika Tremaglio.
She was a 1995 graduate.
She also obtained her MBA downthe street at UB, University of
Baltimore, at about the same time.
She spent 26 years in consulting.
She was a managing principal forDeloitte's Greater Washington Practice.
(02:13):
She left there and she followed thatup with, by leading the National
Basketball Players Association orthe NBPA as its executive director.
She served there from January2022 through November 2023 and she
helped the players ink in a newcollective bargaining agreement.
And now she is the managing partnerof her own company, TA Sports Ventures
Charles Schelle (02:35):
So get ready.
It's time for the tip offof the UMB Pulse podcast.
You're listening to the heartbeatof the University of Maryland
Baltimore, the UMB Pulse.
Dana Rampolla (02:57):
Tamika, welcome to the UMB Pulse.
We are so glad to have you here.
Tamika Tre (03:02):
Hello, good morning.
Thank you very much.
Dana Rampolla (03:04):
And after a busy holiday weekend, I'm sure we're all
spinning our wheels this morning,ready to jump into the new week.
So let's start spinning ourwheels on the Pulse today.
Tell us a little bit about yourtime at the University of Maryland
Francis King Carey School of Lawand how your experiences shaped
your career in law and business.
Tamika Trema (03:23):
Yeah, so thank you very much and thank you for having me.
It is such a privilege to be here today.
I'm incredibly grateful.
So thank you.
But coming off of the Thanksgivingholiday, you're exactly right.
It's a reminder of how grateful we are.
And of course, the University of MarylandCarey Law School is one of the things
that I am incredibly grateful for.
One, because it really gave me theopportunity to do something that
(03:45):
I'd always dreamed about doing.
My father said at the age offive, I was going to be a lawyer.
And so Obviously had to get that done,but then also, I really love the business
side and, you know, 30 years ago, which Ican't believe it's been almost 30 years.
There wasn't a thing of people doinga law degree and an MBA together.
And so I was one of the first peopleto sort of take that on and it was
(04:08):
incredibly challenging, but I thinkthe reason that I love the So,
Charle (04:19):
Did you have a memorable course or professor at Maryland Carey Law?
Tamika Tremaglio (04:24):
Yeah.
So thinking back, I had theprivilege of having so many
people that I really admired.
So we had what you called sortof, I remember in elementary
school, you had a homeroom, butwe had sort of this base class.
So I was section G.
I still remember that.
And professor Tanya Banks, who wasamazing and really helped me with,
(04:47):
you know, sort of that sufferingimposter syndrome of, do I belong here?
Do I know what I'm doing, et cetera.
And so I just love her.
I also had Professor Larry Gibson,who was amazing, our civil procedures
professor, who is still here and does somany things with us and does so much with
the law school and so much to give back.
And so I still have the privilegeof being able to work with him.
(05:09):
The interesting sort of tidbit ishe actually Family from Southern
Maryland, which I did not know at thetime that I went to law school, but
very, very close family membersand didn't know that then.
So everything sort of comes full circle.
So I'm grateful.
Charles Schelle (05:24):
Small world, Smaltimore, right?
Yes.
That's right.
So, as you mentioned, you've earneddegrees in law and the MBA at University
of Baltimore down the street, and nowyou're managing TA Sports Ventures,
which we'll talk about later.
But you've built your experienceand career in risk management
and compliance to start off with.
(05:44):
Did you think that specialty was goingto lead you into the world of pro sports?
Tamika Tre (05:49):
Yeah, so no, I think you know that's the big part of this.
It's all about the journey, right?
No one sort of knows whatwill get you where you end.
But the reality is, I think,you know, my mom would say
any road will take you there.
And that's precisely true.
And this particular instance,I had done a lot of work.
In the sports businessthrough risk and compliance.
(06:11):
So one of my first engagements was withthe NFL PA and looking at their overall
structure and risk assessment, et cetera,under the leadership of DeMora Smith.
Then I went on to do work with the NBPA.
So the National Basketball Association.
Well, players association, andthat was with a corporate internal
investigation back in 2011 time period,and then later went on with a WNBPA
(06:34):
to help them with their organizationalstructure as well as with their
collective bargaining agreement.
So, you know, while it was all part ofwhat I had the base for doing, having a
law background and a business backgroundto assist them in the CBA, it was
certainly not what I had anticipatedor the direction that I would go in.
Dana Rampolla (06:53):
Well, growing up, were you a big sports fan?
Tamika Tremaglio (06:56):
I always was a big sports fan.
And I appreciate Dana that you saidfan because I was a cheerleader.
I was never one that was incredibly goodum,
in terms of playing basketball orfootball or any of those things.
But I always loved cheering on peopleand I always loved championing them.
And to some extent, that's what Ifound myself doing even later in life.
Dana Rampolla (07:17):
Oh, that's fun.
And , who were you rooting for back then?
Tamika Tremaglio (07:20):
Well, it was at that time.
It was the Redskins.
Now the Commanders.
So it's big Commanders fan.
It was also the Bullets.
Now the Wizards.
God, I do feel old.
You know, it's interesting.
I'm like, wow.
But it has been, they've always, youknow, sort of a local and the community
and always been a part of that.
So I'm grateful to actually stillbe Commanders and Wizards fans.
(07:42):
I, I now can say that now that Iam not the executive director of
the National Basketball PlayersAssociation, I was always told then that.
All of the teams, everyplayer, was always my favorite.
But now I'm comfortable saying that Igrew up a Wizards and a Commanders fan.
Dana Rampolla (07:56):
That's great.
Well, what is one lesson that youcan share with our listeners about
teamwork or strategy that stands outfrom your time at the NBPA as well
as working with the WNBA players?
Tamika Tremaglio (08:08):
Yeah, so for certain, there is no I in team, right?
And, you know, I remember a long timeago saying that I always want to surround
myself with people that are smarterthan I am, that are greater than I
am, that can bring more to the table.
And I think to some extent, peopleare a little insecure with having
people around them that can domore or bring other skill sets.
(08:30):
And the reality is, I knowthat's what truly works.
So whether it was in my career atDeloitte, where, you know, we could bring
in economists, and we could bring inlaw enforcement, and we could bring in
interpreters, it's really critical thatwe are sort of amongst a diverse team of
individuals that makes the whole greater.
And so when I think about the lessons,it's one big, Being true to who you
(08:51):
are, authentic in who you are, butalso making sure that you are learning
continuously from other people thathelp you all be a lot stronger and
remembering to enjoy the journey.
I think I have always been a personthat has thought about the next thing.
I'm learning later in life that I'm ahyperachiever and those individuals are
people who want to do more, continuouslywant to do more, want to achieve more.
(09:14):
And so, I think that's what I've learned.
As I'm now kind of settlinginto myself, I think at the
age of 54, it took a long time.
And I've kind of come comfortable with it.
I've learned that it's important that youenjoy every single step of the journey.
As when I was an associate, all Ithought about was when I become partner.
When I was a partner, all Icould think about is when I
could become managing partner.
(09:35):
When I was working on behalf of the NBPA,all you could think about is how can you
lead the NBPA as opposed to actually beingpresent in that moment and being excited.
I think it's so important that weenjoy the moment and enjoy the journey.
.
Charles Schelle (09:51):
Speaking of enjoying the kind of steals the headlines a little bit
and your career trajectory and resume.
And you also mentioned the WNBA too.
These players really have hadtheir moment in this past year.
And.
With breakout stars like Baltimore'sown Angel Reese, and then you have
(10:12):
Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark.
You're instrumental in that 2020 CBA.
Now fast forward with that big moment,they're poised to capitalize . And
in their short careers, they'reopting out looking for a better
deal to advocate for themselves.
So you have to be thrilled forthese athletes getting their due
publicly, you know, and continuingto raise the bar for other women.
(10:36):
Yes,no, I absolutely am thrilled.
And as you mentioned, Charles, in 2020,I was involved with the CBA and it was
the first time ever that we actuallyinstituted an opportunity for the
players to get a portion of revenue.
So, you know, the men had that for sometime, which is, you know, obviously
led to their tremendous success.
The women, this was the very first time.
(10:57):
And now we are seeing where thatcould actually come to fruition,
, people are excited about them.
The arenas are being filled withindividuals that want to see them play.
I love hearing about them being sold out.
It is time.
And I am so grateful thatthey are actually seeing it.
It's time to capitalize on it, whether ornot it's the players individually, whether
(11:19):
or not it's individuals who want toinvest in teams as we see the W expanding.
That will be significant as well.
So it is.
It's grateful to be a part ofand grateful to certainly be a
part of the history of our women.
Charle (11:31):
Yeah, I wanted to follow up with one related point to it, which
is the common theme throughout sports.
It's very complicated withcollective bargaining, right?
I'm a huge sports fan.
I've had to learn about CBA more thanI probably wanted to as an average
sports fan in the different leagues.
But at the end of the day,these are young men and women.
(11:53):
In their 20s and 30s, sometimes, youknow, early 40s, if they're lucky to
extend their careers and that has to besuch a task to, to give that education
to this population and realize howmuch power they have in their hands
and how big of a task they have tosolving these really complicated issues.
You know, labor rights dealsand workers rights deals.
(12:14):
But I guess that's where you step in andthe player agents too, to help kind of
explain all the legalese what impactsthem at the end of the day, right?
Audio Only (12:23):
Yes, no, absolutely.
So, you know, the last CBA, ofcourse, with the men was completed
in 2023 and we had about 18months to actually get that done.
It's daunting to your point.
It is over 700 pages.
It encompasses.
It covers everything.
So from a workload management, if youwill, perspective to the number of
(12:44):
hours that they get to sleep to the,you know, time period in between games.
I mean, it covers everything how they arecompensated, which tends to be what people
focus on, but a lot of this is about thewell being of the players and how they
can offer the most back to the community.
The other piece is it's soimportant that we look at our
players as more than just players.
(13:08):
And for me, that was something thatwas critically important because as I
thought about how the fans engage withthe players, it was important that they
recognize that our players had an and.
So I would always say to theplayers, what's your and?
Because we have players that arefathers, that are brothers, that are
spouses, that are professionals, that,you know, have graduate degrees, etc.
(13:29):
And.
All of that makes up the wholeperson and because people are so
thoughtful about them as athletes,they forget about them as human beings.
And the CBA covers a lot of that.
So it is beyond just howthey're being compensated.
While it's a tremendous part of it, it'sabout, you know, how the league is going
to make money, how the agents are engaged.
(13:50):
It covers everything from zero to 100.
Dana Rampolla (13:56):
Wow.
A lot that we don't think aboutjust sitting on a Sunday afternoon
watching a football game.
Tamika Tremaglio (14:01):
Yes, you're absolutely right.
Dan (14:03):
Well, Tamika, you've turned your sights into something different now.
You're taking a different path and you'rea managing partner at TA Sports Ventures.
Tell us what that is andwhat your mission is there.
Audio Only - All Participa (14:15):
Yes.
So it's been quite thejourney, as you have said.
So yes, TA Sports Ventures, which isnow our own company, we are really
focused on re imagining sports.
So as you can imagine, we have Spenta lot of time seeing different things.
So now we are in a booming sports industrythat encompasses sports betting, that
(14:35):
encompasses eSports, that encompasses NILfor college players that so name, image,
and likeness for our college players.
It's now a global sport as well.
Even American football is global,you know, outside of the U.
S.
And so how are we capturing that there?
So I've had the privilege of doing somework in the Middle East and looking
at, you know how we can bring sportsthere, even major league fishing.
(14:58):
And how could we bring fishingto other parts of the world?
So it has been amazing for me because I'vealways thought about what can reimagine
sports now that private equity has becomea part of it now that there's so much So
many things that are encompassing sports.
It really is a great timeto capitalize on that.
So that's what TA sports venturesis doing is looking at all of the
(15:20):
opportunities that exist throughout theworld to reimagine the game of sports.
Charles Sche (15:24):
You mentioned that the Middle East, I was wondering
what excited you about thatmarket and what makes sense there.
There has been, as you mentioned, alot of Investment from different funds
around the world that are now ableto tap into North American sports.
Tamika (15:39):
You're absolutely right.
And I think what attracts me tothe Middle East, it's twofold.
One is I had the privilege in servingas executive director that we had our
global games in Abu Dhabi, which washonestly my first time to the Middle East
and seeing the excitement throughout theworld for our game, seeing the excitement
throughout the world for our players.
(16:01):
It opened up an entirely new worldand learning about all of the things
that they were doing there and quitefrankly, just learning about how
sort of underdeveloped they were interms of sports even more broadly.
So when you look at soccer when you lookat, you know, American football, all of
these things is very unique, and they arereally excited about it sort of bringing
it into their culture more broadly.
(16:22):
So even as they look at wellness.
So when you look in Dubai, and they havetheir 2030 vision, a lot of that is about
wellness and people getting engaged inactivities outside and doing sports.
And so understanding how you can be apart of that and to build that in a place
where that hasn't been the priority, It'sreally exciting to me because we take
it for granted that we have high schoolcompetitions and things like that aren't
(16:45):
happening on a daily basis in the MiddleEast, and they really want to be able to
be a part of the American culture as well.
And I also have found that, youknow, Oftentimes we do not know or
understand enough about the Middle East.
And so to the extent that not onlyare we giving them an opportunity to
learn more and to be engaged in ourculture, we also have the opportunity
(17:09):
to be engaged in their culture.
People always say, ignorance is blissto some extent, but at the end of
the day, ignorance is just ignorance.
And so being able to get outthere and getting exposed to other
people in other cultures to me issignificantly, it's a significant.
Opportunity for all of us.
Dana Ramp (17:26):
A couple minutes ago, you mentioned seeing players as people,
not just as athletes, and you justmentioned wellness, and that brings to
mind, you have done some work in the areaof mental health challenges that, with
the athletes that you've worked with.
Can you tell us a little bit abouthow that shaped your advocacy efforts
and the changes you've championedfor those folks in the industry?
Tamika Trem (17:48):
To be honest, a lot of it started well before going to the
National Basketball Players Association.
So I learned that, you know, atDeloitte around sort of bringing
your authentic self to work.
And so we launched a business of kindnesscampaign, which was in my way, a way
of trying to recognize that, , we don'tknow what anyone is going through on
any given day and how important it wasin the business community to be kind.
(18:12):
And so it Obviously, going intothe National Basketball Players
Association, I recognized that one,kindness was critically important, and
we didn't always see that of our fans.
But I also understood that our men weregoing through a lot, like the pressure,
not only on the court, but off the court.
And being part of a union, one of thefocus, a part of what we did, which
(18:34):
people didn't always appreciate,was that we were involved with them.
On and off the court, which meantthat mental health and the things
that they were being approached withevery day were significant to them.
And so, as a result, we have a anentire department that was led by Dr.
Parham that really focused onour players, mental health.
(18:55):
At all stages.
So as a rookie and you're comingin to the NBA as you know, someone
who's close to retirement and howyou transition, you know, we really
spent a lot of time with them, makingsure that they were well, because
they could only be their best selveson the court when other
things were going well too.
(19:15):
And I think people forget about,you know, all of the things that
kind of keep us back from things.
So physically, you know, theyare the greatest athletes in the
world, but we can only bring thebest of ourselves physically when
mentally we are in a great place.
And so we had our first evermental health symposium back
in September of 2024, actually.
(19:36):
And that was critically important becauseit brought something to the table that
people had really not talked about.
And the players are such tremendousexamples to Everyone, whether it's
young men in school, whether it'syoung women, and they want to hear
that it's okay to not be okay.
And our players were talking about that.
And I think it's so critically important.
(19:58):
You know, a lot of that I learnedthrough working with Lady Gaga
on the Born This Way Foundation,where they really felt that.
It was a natural progression to be ableto do that at the NBPA, and it's one
of the things that I'm most proud of,but it's also one of the things that I
will carry with me is recognizing, youknow, all of the struggles that many
(20:20):
of our players were going through andhow we could really be helpful to them.
Dana Rampolla (20:25):
Great.
And a huge Lady Gaga fan here.
Tamika Tremag (20:27):
So yeah, she does so much in the community.
Really does.
I'm grateful that people are, youknow, recognize her in that way.
Dan (20:36):
And I think, is it her mom?
That's a big part of that.
Tamika Tremagli (20:38):
Yes, so Cynthia Germinato, who is her mother, she and Lady
Gaga founded Born This Way Foundation.
And so with that, they focus on, youknow, mental health, particularly
mental health in the youth population,which has just been tremendous.
I'm just delighted to beable to be a part of it.
It's a privilege to watch, butI've certainly learned so much
from that responsibility as well.
Dana Rampolla (21:00):
That's great.
Well, it sounds like with everythingyou have going on, you're definitely
a leader who knows not just who youare, but how to excel and accomplish
the things you want to in all ofthese different parts of your life.
How would you describe your approachto leadership and what advice would you
give our alumni or any other listeners?
Tamika Tremaglio (21:20):
I mentioned, obviously, enjoying the journey.
I also appreciate that bringing,you know, diverse skill sets and
thinking is critically important.
I am absolutely a collaborative leaderthat I do want to hear from other people.
I never go into somethingthinking that I know it all.
All I think it's important that werecognize, you know, our strengths,
(21:40):
certainly, but recognize, youknow, where we have weaknesses and
others can help to fill those gaps.
I just think that is socritically important and it
is not seen as a weakness.
I also think being authentic,being an authentic.
Authentic leader, you know, thenpeople feel like they can come to you
and talk to you that they can expressconcerns that they can feel free to
(22:01):
voice their opinions about things.
It's so important that we do that.
And then lastly, I will always say thatI always want to be transformational.
I always want to think outside of the box.
I want to bring new ideas.
And there are lots of people that canexecute on things that have been given.
It's those unique leaders that canexecute on things that are just
(22:22):
thoughts, you know, or visionsthat they can bring to life.
Charles Schelle (22:26):
With being an authentic leader I love that
mode of thought and mode ofleadership because it's really can
be disarming for people and makethem feel more at ease and relaxed.
I was wondering if you canshare maybe one way you do
that being an authentic leader.
Tamika Tremaglio (22:41):
Yeah.
So for sure, I think COVIDhelped us all to do that, right?
Because now you're in people's homes.
You can see their family, their kids.
There's interruptions.
And so that for certain does that.
I think also sort of showingwhere you're vulnerable, right?
I often talk about the impostersyndrome, and even, you know, being
Chairman of the Board at the Universityof Maryland Carey Law School.
(23:03):
I've talked to our students aboutthe imposter syndrome and how
I have felt like an imposter.
Not to suggest that, you know, I am lessthan Then because I think Harvard Business
Review talks so often about, you know,women stop saying that, you know, you
have the imposter syndrome because thereare times that we are made to feel less
than and we have to recognize that, youknow, I think they call it gaslighting.
(23:25):
Right?
But at the same time, I think it'sappropriate to tell people that, you
know, your heart's palpitating becauseyou're wondering if you are enough.
If you're wondering if you're doingthe right thing, if you're wondering if
someone thinks that you're smart enoughor, you know, belong in this room, etc.
And I think when you do thatand you can allow yourself to be
vulnerable, people open up to you.
I wrote a letter to my younger selfright before I became the managing
(23:48):
partner of Deloitte and I was convinced.
That then there was no way they weregoing to choose me for that role.
But the reality, it was just theopposite because people needed
to feel like they could relate.
And it was so important for peopleto be able to relate to leaders.
We talk about when youcan see it, you can be it.
And that's what people need now is theyneed to see it so that they can be, if
(24:11):
they don't need this facade put up and,you know, acting like life is Perfect.
And things go very smoothly, right?
They need to know when there are momentsof weakness so that they can understand
that they're human too, but yet theycan still get to those same roles or
they can aspire to do certain things.
I think that's so critically important.
Charles Schell (24:30):
You're so right.
everyone has gotten past the type ofleader or, or dealing with that leader at
work who says everything is fine, but thenyou see the flames in the background as
they're drinking the coffee at the desk.
Right.
One of
Tamika (24:43):
my, one of my colleagues used to tell me that they would see me.
They're like, I think you're like a duck,like you're in a pond and you're just.
You know, floating across and your legsare underneath like feverishly moving
because that's exactly what life is like.
And you got to tell people like,I'm barely staying afloat here.
I'm getting through things.
So I think that's so incredibly important.
(25:04):
And you know, I think having goneto University of Maryland Carey
Law, I think we could do that.
And now our focus honestly has beenon making sure that students feel
included, that they're a part of things.
Our professors, we talk a lot about,you know, being there for each other.
So, you know, one of the things thatwe mentioned was that Born This Way
(25:25):
Foundation, one of the things that theydo is they have a Be There Certificate
and it's about being there for oneanother and recognizing when other people
are having mental health challenges.
So our professors are goingto be a part of that program.
They're going to be certified in it.
We're going to ask our studentsto be a part of it because
life can be challenging.
And we recognize as we look at the mentalhealth of our graduate students, of all
(25:47):
of our students, it's important that we'rethere for each other and recognize when
Other people are going through challenges.
When someone breaks their leg,we get up, we give them a seat.
When someone is going through mentalhealth challenges, we always aren't
recognizing it, but it also requiresthat a person feels comfortable being
authentic, but that you're also feelingcomfortable with recognizing when
their authenticity leads to places thatcould be really challenging for them.
(26:12):
So I'm excited because the University ofMaryland Carey Law School has taken that
on and sees it as a big part of what theydo, and it's so critically important.
Charles Schelle (26:21):
Can't wait to hear more about that.
You've mentioned how much youhave stayed connected to UMB.
As you mentioned uh, Chairwoman of theBoard of Visitors for Maryland Carey Law.
I've know I've seen you atcampus events here and there.
So what's been the most rewardingpart about giving back to the school,
whether it's your time or initiativesyou, you've worked on beyond the
(26:43):
ones that you've mentioned already?
Tamika Tremaglio (26:45):
I am a strong believer that to whom much is given,
much is expected, and I cannot tellyou the amount of joy that I get in
being there amongst the students.
I remember what those days were like,and I think it's so important that
we're there to have the discussions,to make the connections for them,
to, you know, give them hope.
(27:06):
I mentioned earlier, you know, goingto the law school a couple of weeks
ago when talking about the impostersyndrome and having students come to
me with tears in their eyes, both malesand females, both black and white,
just the experiences that they've had.
And I will tell you that day I satin my car, I had to pause because
I thought, gosh, I'm so grateful.
(27:27):
One that they've heard about it.
A much younger age than when I learnedabout it, but to that they felt like
they were comfortable enough coming tome and talking to me about it because
we just take so many things for granted.
You know, whether or not it'syou know, people were talking
about clerkships or law review.
Things like that we.
It's not something that you automaticallytake for granted and the reality is
(27:49):
they didn't grow up around the tablewith parents who were lawyers and they
weren't talking about this every day.
And so, getting the opportunityfor them to hear about it, to
understand career paths, I thinkjust makes a huge difference.
So, I have gained much more than I couldever give in this role for certain,
and honestly, it's really a giftand a privilege to be a part of it.
Dana Rampoll (28:09):
Tamika, along with what you're saying, there are a number
and thank you, first and foremost,for all that you have given back to
UMB, but there are also a number ofother ways that students and alumni
could tap in at the university.
Any thoughts on that?
Tamika Trem (28:23):
there are many ways as alumni that we can give back, whether
it's our time, talent, our treasure.
So certainly from a time perspective,even if it's something very quickly,
like a 15 minute tea on zoom or, youknow, coffee with a student just to
give them the exposure that they need.
Or it's with your talent.
We have such tremendous individuals atthe University of Maryland Cary Law.
(28:45):
So our illustrious Dean, ReneeHutchins Laurent, who leads our
university is doing an amazing job.
We have Shara Boonshaft, who'sthere, who is really focused
on elevating the university.
And then we even have a associate Dean,Erica Smith, who focuses on student
services and mental health and the whole.
Hold this of the individual.
(29:06):
All of that is really significantand as alumni, you can play
a part, play a role in that.
And of course, there's always opportunityto give her our treasure, whether
it's something small, a cup of coffeeor whether it's something large or
something that you do collectively.
I know our class of 1995 islooking for a way to actually
have a student scholarship.
So we're pooling our resourcesto be able to actually give
(29:29):
a scholarship to a student.
So there are many ways inwhich alumni can be helpful.
Dana Rampolla (29:34):
It's great advice for all of the schools here at
UMB too, not just the law school.
Tamika, as we wrap up, where doyou see your impact growing next?
You've done so much, you're involvedwith so much now what are the next
five or ten years look like for you?
Tamika Tremaglio (29:49):
Data, that is a great question.
And in my authentic way, I willsay I, I don't actually know.
But what I do know right now is that I amreally enjoying the journey that I am on.
I am trying to be very present inEach and every day, I am taking
the time to be still, which Ihave never done in my entire life.
(30:12):
So I am hoping that whatever elseI continue to do, that it will
be just an opportunity to buildupon the things that I have been
so privileged to receive to date.
So I'm really excited about the nextthings, but also remembering to be
really here in the present moment.
But I would bet if I were to you know,Hypothesize that it'll be something
(30:32):
global, that it'll be something involvedwith the community, a way in which I
can really play to all of my strengths.
Charles Schelle (30:40):
Well, it has certainly been a privilege
for us talking to you, Tamika.
You are definitely one of theshining lights of UMB and Marilyn
Carey Law, and it's been incrediblehearing what you've been up to and
what you're about to be up to soon.
So, definitely take time for yourselfand your family during the holidays,
and we hope you have a happy new year.
(31:03):
And thank you for joiningus on the UMB Pulse.
Tamika Tre (31:06):
Thank you very much.
Thank you for having me
Jena (31:13):
The UMB Pulse with Charles Schelle and Dana Rampolla is a UMB
Office of Communications and PublicAffairs production, edited by Charles
Schelle marketing by Dana Rampolla.
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