Reading is an important element of your professional development that cannot be overstated. Books on management, leadership, career growth, personal growth and career choices can expose you to ideas that will prove useful throughout your career.

"Read a lot of books," said Jane C. Meyer, NCAA director of education outreach. "They don't have to be athletically related. Especially look for books on leadership and self-empowerment."

The following books are among those recommended for athletics administrators and others looking to advance in athletics.

* "What Color is Your Parachute?" by Richard Nelson Bolles.

"The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership" by John C. Maxwell.

"The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success" by Deepak Chopra.

"Women, Mentors, and Success" by Joan Jeruchim and Pat Shapiro.

"Managing from the Heart" by Hyler Bracey, Jack Rosenblum, Aubrey Sanford and Roy Trueblood.

"The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People," by Stephen R. Covey.

"Leadership is an Art" by Max Depree.

"Leadership Jazz" by Max Depree.

"Enlightened Leadership" by Ed Oakley and Doug Krug.

"Reach for the Summit: The Definite Dozen System for Succeeding at Whatever You Do" by Pat Summitt with Sally Jenkins.

"The Smart Woman's Guide to Interviewing and Salary Negotiation" by Julie Adair King.

"Success is a Choice: Ten Steps to Overachieving in Business and in Life" by Rick Pitino with Bill Reynolds

-- Kay Hawes