Power of Sport Gala

At The Institute for Sport & Social Justice, we believe in the transcendent power of sport to change the world. We unleash that power by educating, empowering, and inspiring individuals, organizations, and the global community to live their values by standing up for equity, inclusion, and social justice.

Our annual celebration –  the Power of Sport Gala – is a decades-long tradition of honoring changemakers who have used the platform of sport to impact the world. Former honorees include: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Robin Roberts, Allyson Felix, Muhammad Ali, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Danny Wuerffel, Carmelo Anthony, Jordyn Wieber, Jackie Robinson, and many others. 

2023 Power of Sport Honorees

Hall of Fame: Billy Bean 
Excellence in Sport Journalism: Jemele Hill
Power of Sport: Olivia Pichardo
Power of Sport: Eli A. Wolff (posthumous) 
Power of Sport: Black Women in Sport Foundation Founders – Tina Sloan-Green, Dr. Nikki Franke, Linda Greene Esq, Dr. Alpha Alexander

This year’s gala will have a sneaker ball theme. Think black tie attire with sneakers, yes sneakers! Ditch your formal shoes and make a fashion statement with your shoe game. We are also asking everyone to bring a pair of sneakers to donate. 

We invite you to join us in celebrating the power of sport and to help fuel our work for a more just and equitable world.

Sponsorship Levels

  • Hall of Fame: $50,000
  • Power of Sport: $25,000
  • Social Justice: $15,000
  • Playmaker: $5,000
  • Reception: $25,000 

Additional Sponsorship Opportunities

  • Sneaker Fashion Show
  • Transportation

Individual tickets can be purchased for $500.

Gala Sponsors

Hall of Fame Level

Power of Sport Level

National Football League logo
Major League Soccer logo
Nascar


Social Justice Level


Playmaker Level

Chaunte Lowe, A Hero Among Us

Every other time, I’ve ran for myself, my kids, my family, for my country. But this time, it’s not about me. It’s more about any woman, any person, that could contract this disease. If they hear my story, maybe they’ll get checked. I know that it will save lives.