ARCATA, Calif. – Cal Poly Humboldt Athletics hosted its annual Social Equity & Accountability (SEA) event this week, welcoming renowned character development coach Stephen Mackey as the honored guest speaker.
"Having Stephen Mackey speak on diversity, equity, and inclusion brought tremendous value to our student-athletes. His message was powerful, thought-provoking, and aligned nicely with our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture," said Nick Pettit, Director of Athletics.
Known to thousands of students and coaches across the country as Coach Mackey, Stephen Mackey is a Texas-based character development coach and founder of 2Words Character Development, one of the nation's leading player development programs. Built on the core principles of integrity, belief, toughness, relentless effort, excellence, and servant leadership, 2Words helps athletes and teams strengthen both their mindset and culture.
Mackey, a first-generation college graduate, holds a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University ('07) and a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary ('16). He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Ministry, also at Fuller.
Throughout the event, Mackey challenged Humboldt student-athletes to reflect on their values, choices, and commitment to growth both on and off the field. His message centered on resilience, accountability, and the power of character in leadership.
Student-athletes shared their takeaways following the event:
"I thought the event was amazing and felt very motivating! My favorite part was when Coach Mackey spoke about facing adversity and how we chose to be here, so we have to face it head on with a positive attitude. I'm very thankful to the athletic department for putting on this event and leaving us feeling inspired and ready to get after it."
— Jordyn Smith, Women's Basketball
"The speaker really changed my perspective on respect. It's not about others' actions but about your character when giving respect. I shouldn't let people change my character and show respect regardless of how they behave."
— Matea Muraoka, Softball
"I liked how he was determined for us to leave having learned something and how we all walked away with something to talk as a team about to better ourselves and our team chemistry."
— Mason Hatton, Softball
The SEA program is an ongoing initiative within Cal Poly Humboldt Athletics designed to promote dialogue, education, and action around issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through events like this, the department continues to foster an environment that celebrates respect, empathy, and unity among student-athletes, coaches, and staff.
