ABOUT
TALL GIRLS UNITED
Tall Girls United is a global community dedicated to the empowerment and celebration of tall women. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive space where tall women can connect, share their experiences, and find support.
FOUNDERS
MISSION & VISION
At Tall Girls United, our mission is to empower and celebrate tall women by fostering a supportive and inclusive community. We are dedicated to challenging societal norms and stereotypes, advocating for positive body image, and providing a platform for tall women to connect, share their stories, and inspire one another. Our vision is to create a world where tall women feel valued, heard, and empowered to reach their full potential. Through educational resources, community events, and advocacy efforts, we strive to cultivate opportunities for personal and professional growth, ensuring every tall woman feels confident and celebrated.
CEO
Sylvia Crawley Spann
Sylvia was born in Steubenville, Ohio, and attended Steubenville "Big Red" High School, excelling in volleyball, basketball, and track. She earned a full basketball scholarship to the University of North Carolina, leading the Tar Heels to a National Championship and graduating with a double major in Communications and Radio & TV Motion Pictures.
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Sylvia played professionally in 16 countries, earning multiple medals and being named USA Basketball Player of the Year in 1997. She transitioned to the WNBA, playing for the Portland Fire and San Antonio Silver Stars before retiring in 2004.
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She then moved into coaching, becoming the first Black head coach at Ohio University and Boston College, and later coaching at UNC-Chapel Hill and the WNBA's Indiana Fever. Currently, she is a global coach training athletes worldwide. Off the court, Sylvia is a public speaker, CEO of Crawley’s Creation LLC, and co-founder of Monarch Magazine. She lives in Durham, North Carolina, with her husband, Pastor Brian Spann, and cares for her parents.
COO
Coach Leahjean Denley
Born in Minneapolis, MN, CoachLeah™ Leahjean Denley is the Sports Editor at Insight News in her hometown, where she curates unique and thought-provoking articles. With an MBA and over 28 years in journalism, CoachLeah™ brings strategic and creative vision to her role, coupled with skills in workshop facilitation, leadership development, and expertise in youth programming. She also serves as Graphics Coordinator and Special Projects Producer on the Communications and Technologies Ministry team at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston, TX.
A former elite athlete, CoachLeah™ is the Founder of THE Frazier Foundation, Inc., a 501c-3, and the Institute for Arts & Academic Leadership and Athletic Excellence, LLC (AALAX). AALAX provides coaching and consulting services, and scholastic and mentoring programs for young athletes and creatives by fostering strategic partnerships. The organization focuses on workforce development, empowering female executives in male-dominated industries.
As a Career & Life Coach, CoachLeah™ guides clients in discovering and pursuing their passions, developing their talents and skills, and aligning their achievements with professional and personal goals. An empty nester with three adult children, Chelsea, Michael, and Monet’, she balances caring for her mother, servant leadership, philanthropy, and quality time with her husband, Texas native, Robert Denley, with intention.
TALL GIRLS UNITED FUND
501(c)(3)
In a world where standing out can sometimes feel like a burden, the Tall Girl United Fund (TGUF) stands tall as a pillar of support and empowerment for youth and young adults navigating vertical challenges. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, TGUF is dedicated to providing mentorship and guidance to those who often feel out of place due to their height. With a mission rooted in fostering self-esteem and creating a sense of community, TGUF addresses various issues that tall individuals face, from bullying and self-image to practical concerns like shopping for clothes that fit.
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Navigating the Vertical Landscape Being tall comes with its own set of unique challenges. For many young individuals, height can make them a target for bullying, lead to feelings of isolation, and create difficulties in finding clothing that fits properly. TGUF understands these struggles and offers a comprehensive mentorship program designed to tackle these issues head-on. By pairing mentees with mentors who have experienced similar challenges, the program provides a safe space for sharing experiences, receiving advice, and building confidence.
PARTNER WITH US
Join the Tall Girl United Fund
At Tall Girl United Fund, we believe that height should be celebrated, not hidden. Our mentorship program, practical guidance, and global conferences provide a comprehensive support system for tall youth and young adults. If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, or if you’re interested in becoming a mentor, we invite you to join us in our mission to empower and uplift the tall community. Together, we can create a world where everyone stands tall with pride.
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For more information about how to partner with us on our programs, upcoming events, and how to get involved, click here. Let's stand tall together!
