Empowering the Next Generation Through AI, Leadership & Community
At Athletes Meeting Excellence, we believe the future of leadership sits at the intersection of sports, technology, and real-world experience.
That belief came to life through our recent (RE)CHARGE: AI & Digital Leadership Lab, hosted in collaboration with Microsoft in Atlanta.
Our Executive Director, Alex Easterling, introduces (RE)CHARGE for the first time to an engaged group of students, coaches, and emerging leaders.
What started as a vision to create a meaningful, hands-on learning experience turned into something even greater—a space where students, coaches, and emerging leaders could engage directly with professionals shaping the future of technology, data, and leadership.
The Experience
(RE)CHARGE brought together a diverse group of participants from across the Atlanta community, including students from the AUC, local high schools, coaches, and mentors.
Attendees were fully engaged throughout an intimate fireside chat, exploring the intersection of technology and sports through meaningful, hands-on conversation and shared insight.
The day began with an interactive AI workshop led by Microsoft, where attendees were introduced to real-world applications of artificial intelligence and digital tools. The session was facilitated by Kevin Freely-Clay, Digital Specialist in Cloud & AI, and focused not just on understanding technology, but on how to apply it in meaningful ways—from career development to everyday problem-solving.
We then transitioned into a dynamic panel discussion featuring leaders across sports, technology, and data analytics. Panelists included Morgan Jarrett, Director of Business Intelligence & Digital Strategy with the Atlanta Dream; Christopher Scott, Datacenter Program Manager at Microsoft; along with Kevin Cone, Assistant AD of Student-Athlete Development, and William Webster, Assistant Director of Data Analytics from Georgia Tech Athletics..
The conversation explored how data, AI, and leadership intersect across industries, and how young people can begin positioning themselves today for the opportunities of tomorrow.
Guiding the conversation was our moderator, Zachary Sharp, a student at Morehouse College, whose presence and leadership set the tone for an engaging and relatable discussion.
Kevin Cone alongside our incredible panel of leaders, sharing knowledge, perspective, and “gems” that left a lasting impact on everyone in the room.
Key Takeaways
Throughout the day, a few themes stood out:
- Technology is a tool, not a barrier — When introduced in the right way, AI and digital platforms become accessible and empowering.
- Leadership translates across industries — The lessons learned through sports—discipline, teamwork, accountability—apply directly to careers in tech, business, and beyond.
- Exposure changes everything — Providing direct access to professionals and real conversations helps young people see what’s possible for themselves.
The Impact
While the event was intentionally intimate, the level of engagement and connection made it incredibly impactful.
Participants didn’t just sit and listen—they asked questions, shared perspectives, and walked away with a deeper understanding of how to navigate their own paths. The environment allowed for real dialogue, meaningful connections, and a level of access that’s often missing from traditional programming.
Simply put, those in the room left more informed, more inspired, and better prepared than when they arrived.
Christopher Scott of Microsoft taking the time to connect one-on-one with a student attendee from Morehouse College—creating a meaningful moment of mentorship, insight, and real-world perspective.
At Athletes Meeting Excellence, this work is part of a broader commitment to youth development. Through initiatives like (RE)CHARGE and our free business seminars, we provide young people ages 14–24 with access to career readiness, professional development, and real-world learning experiences that help prepare them for what’s next.
What’s Next
(RE)CHARGE is not a one-time event—it’s the beginning of a growing platform designed to empower the next generation through access, education, and opportunity.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to expand (RE)CHARGE through new partnerships, community activations, and future programming that continues to bridge the gap between sports, technology, and leadership.
Take a look inside the experience through our recap video, featuring direct reflections, testimonials, and moments from students, coaches, and leaders who were part of (RE)CHARGE.
(RE)CHARGE Impact Recap: Voices from the Room
Thank You
We want to thank all of our partners, speakers, and attendees who helped bring this experience to life. Your willingness to pour into the next generation is what makes this work meaningful.
L–R: Zachary Sharp, William Webster, Morgan Jarrett, Christopher Scott, Kevin Cone, Alex Easterling, Kevin Freely-Clay, and Valerie Madison.
An incredible group of leaders who helped bring (RE)CHARGE to life. Grateful for the impact.
Stay Connected
To learn more about Athletes Meeting Excellence and future (RE)CHARGE programming, visit:
www.amesportsinc.org
