USOC Announces Kristi Yamaguchi As Jesse Owens Olympic Spirit Award Winner

[Barbara Manatee]

Congratulations to Kristi! So much recognition for skaters lately.

The Jesse Owens Olympic Spirit Award recognizes an individual(s) who has served as a powerful force for good in society, inspiring others by contributing to a better world, uniting people or leading a cause. Established in collaboration with the Owens family on the 80th anniversary of Owens’ record-breaking performance at the 1936 Olympic Games, the award looks to celebrate his spirit and legacy, and to recognize their presence in others.

Yamaguchi embodies that legacy, both in her athletic achievements and dedication to giving back to the community. Since being crowned the women’s figure skating Olympic champion in 1992, she has continued to define excellence and inspire others through many philanthropic efforts. Yamaguchi’s personal motto inspired her to establish the Always Dream Foundation in 1996, which aims to support disadvantaged children in her native Bay Area. Later, she launched the Always Reading program, which focuses on the development of early childhood literacy skills by integrating e-tablets and digital & traditional books in the classroom. Currently in its seventh year, the program annually serves more than 2,000 students in nearly 80 classrooms and has expanded to Arizona, California and Hawaii.

 

[clairecloutier]

What a great tribute to Kristi!

 

[Simone411]

Congratulations to Kristi! What an honor and well-deserved!

 

[Jot the Dot Dot]

Always liked Kristi as a skater, and as a person. What a well-deserved honor for her!