Ringside with Athena

Fitness spaces can feel exclusive, individualistic, and full of competition — but they don’t have to feel that way, and creating spaces of joy and liberation isn’t just important, it’s good business. 

Ringside with Athena is a community of practice for the entrepreneurship-curious: students who are interested in learning more about entrepreneurship and who are looking for opportunities to meet others who share this interest. 

This 3-session series is part boxing classes, part business case study and is facilitated by HAVEN Boxing, a gym that “uses boxing and training to build not only technique and power, but confidence and resilience for everyday life.” Together, the 10 students in this community of practice will explore how this women-, queer-, and POC-led team is building a business founded on radical inclusion, and build tools for their own wellness in the process. 

Who Can Join:

• Any Barnard student interested in entrepreneurship or wellness — or both! — may join. First years, we’re especially excited to meet you! No fitness or boxing experience necessary.

The Commitment:

• There are three weekly afternoon sessions on Fridays. Each session includes 45 minutes of travel to HAVEN Boxing Gym’s Williamsburg location, a 45-minute boxing class, and a 45-minute talkback with HAVEN’s founders and Athena.  

The Perks:

• Free introductory boxing classes in a body-neutral space, a Metrocard to get you there and back, and the opportunity to make new friends and build community with your peers and Athena.

Applications to join are accepted during the first two weeks of each semester. ​Check back in early Spring 2025 for your opportunity to apply!

Questions? Reach out to Athena’s Director of Applied Learning, Chriss Sneed, at csneed@barnard.edu.