Program Overview
The Denise DeBartolo York Fellowship
The Denise DeBartolo York Fellowship celebrates Mrs. York's legacy and cultivates a talent pipeline into professional sports. The Fellowship is awarded annually to a college graduate who demonstrates the qualities of Denise and the San Francisco 49ers: leadership, integrity, concern for the community and creating an inclusive environment where everyone thrives. Candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Denise DeBartolo York has had a long and distinguished business and professional sports career. Mrs. York was the owner and co-chairman of the five-time world-champion San Francisco 49ers. Earlier in her career, Mrs. York served as president of the Pittsburgh Penguins hockey team. Under her leadership, the Penguins were revitalized and transformed into a Stanley Cup-winning team. Mrs. York has been named by Forbes Magazine as one of the most powerful women in sports.
The fellowship is designed to give a college graduate a well-rounded foundation in the business of a professional sports team.