Empowering Athletes' Mental Wellness
Founded by Karen Phelps, Golden Minds strives to create a supportive community for student athletes to openly address their mental well-being and connect with essential resources. Our team of mental health professionals and former athletes share a passion for helping student athletes navigate the challenges of mental wellness.
Karen Phelps – Founder & Director
Director Karen Phelps, daughter of legendary Irish basketball coach Digger Phelps, has been immersed in sports and the mental wellness movement her entire life. As the former wife of a major league baseball pitcher and mother of six college athletes, she understands the immense pressure student-athletes face. “We need to do more – and we can,” says Phelps. She envisions Golden Minds as a one-stop platform that emphasizes the importance of mental wellness, encouraging athletes to seek support as a sign of strength.
Foundation and Achievements
Karen founded the Eluna Network (elunanetwork.org), which provides grief and addiction camps for children. Her work has earned numerous honors, including an Emmy Award for the HBO documentary "One Last Hug..." which highlighted her efforts with children in grief.
Addressing Mental Fitness in College Sports
Disturbed by the rise in anxiety, depression, and suicides in college sports, Phelps is determined to provide solutions. She advocates for prioritizing mental fitness, breaking the stigma, and creating a supportive community through the Golden Minds platform.
Board of Directors
Chris Brienza
Marketing and Communications Board Chair
With over 30 years in public relations and communications, Chris Brienza has extensive experience in both professional sports and agency work. Most recently, he led Sports and Media practices at Coyne PR, managing clients like the Harlem Globetrotters, IRONMAN, and ESPN. Read More
Diane Fox
Board Secretary
Diane Fox retired in May 2023 after 43 years in education. She spent 22 years teaching and coaching at Saint Joseph’s High School in South Bend, Indiana, followed by 7 years at the Holy Cross College, where she taught, advised students, and became the director of Academic Advising. Read More
Tim Frank
Tim Frank is in his 23rd season with the NBA league office and 30th overall in the NBA, including seven years with the Houston Rockets. He manages NBA publicity, coordinates media operations for all 30 teams, and oversees media management for key events like the NBA Finals and All-Star games. Read More
Jason Holzer
Jason Holzer is a Post-Traumatic Growth storyteller and Co-Founder of 4D Athletes. He is the author of the Amazon Best Seller "Shattered by Suicide, Renewed by Resilience: How to Move Forward After Being Left Behind," which shares his journey after losing his father to suicide and has inspired readers worldwide. Read More
Angie Krilich
Co-Director of Programs
Angie Krilich is a former NCAA Division I rower with over 10 years of experience advising and counseling collegiate student-athletes. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in multiple states, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and a Board Certified Coach (BCC). Read More
Michael Mitchell
Finance and Strategy Board Chair
Michael Mitchell is a Small Business Consultant and Advisor. A member of the University of Notre Dame Class of 1981, he served as the captain of the Notre Dame basketball team. Read More
Timoney Moyer
Former Athlete Advisory Chair
Timoney Moyer is a graduate of Saint Mary's College, where she played basketball for the Belles. With nearly a decade of experience in marketing and go-to-market strategy, Moyer has significantly contributed to various tech startups. Read More
Michelle Olson
Michelle Olson is the Co-Director of Programs and the Clinical Program Director for Golden Minds. She is a licensed psychotherapist (LCSW, LMSW, LCAC) with over 20 years of clinical experience in community mental health. Read More
Teresa Godwin Phelps
Board Vice President
Teresa Godwin Phelps is passionate about education. She has been on the faculty at the University of Notre Dame Law School since 1980, where she taught and directed legal writing. Read More
Lisa Bonta Sumii
Lisa Bonta Sumii is a psychotherapist with over 23 years of clinical experience, licensed in California and Nevada. She has been in private practice for more than 15 years and also works as a consultant and entrepreneur. Read More
Our Team
Join Us
Together, we’re committed to supporting student athletes in their mental wellness journey, creating a community of strength, hope, and growth.