Celebrating Community and Excellence: The Inaugural Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award
ROSEMONT, Ill – In a significant tribute to legacy and community, the Big Ten Conference has unveiled the nominees for the first-ever Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates 36 extraordinary student-athletes from across the conference who not only excel in their sports but also strive to make a meaningful difference in their communities.
The Nominees: A Testament to Excellence
The excitement builds as the conference prepares to announce two overall winners on its social media platforms later this week. Here’s a look at the impressive nominees representing their institutions:
Illinois
- Abby Lynch, Track & Field and Soccer
- Kenenna Odeluga, Football
Indiana
- Shea O’Malley, Soccer
- Jack Wagoner, Soccer
Iowa
- Nanea Estrella, Wrestling
- Will Ryan, Track & Field
Maryland
- Tasha Brozowski, Gymnastics
- Dillan Fontus, Football
Michigan
- Yasmine Mansi, Track & Field
- Semaj Moore, Football
Michigan State
- Skyla Schulte, Gymnastics
- Jalen Thompson, Football
Minnesota
- Zariyah Black, Track & Field
- Jordan Dunigan, Track & Field
Nebraska
- Genesis Gibson, Gymnastics
- Micaylon Moore, Track & Field
Northwestern
- Megumi Oishi, Fencing
- Tyler Ganus, Baseball
Ohio State
- Nyah Funderburke, Swimming
- Sonny Styles, Football
Oregon
- Hannah Seubert, Track & Field
- Junior (Naulivou) Lauaki, Baseball
Penn State
- Jami Morris, Golf
- Dylan Lugris, Hockey
Purdue
- Jalen Elrod, Track & Field
- Brody Chrisman, Baseball
Rutgers
- Emma Baeyens, Track & Field
- John Poznanski, Wrestling
UCLA
- Janiah Barker, Basketball
- Chase Griffin, Football
USC
- Samirah Moody, Track & Field
- Bryce Brock, Track & Field
Washington
- Deiah Moody, Gymnastics
- Levi Hawk, Soccer
Wisconsin
- Marianne Picard, Hockey
- Kamari McGee, Basketball
A Medal with Meaning
In a heartfelt homage, each of the 36 nominees will receive a medal bearing the likeness of Jackie Robinson alongside the Big Ten Conference’s logo. This award not only recognizes their achievements on the field but serves as a symbol of their commitment to community service and social impact.
Inspiring Legacy: Jackie Robinson
Established in 2025, the Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award takes its inspiration from one of the greatest sports figures in history. Robinson was not only a four-sport standout at UCLA but also a pioneer who broke barriers in Major League Baseball. More than his athleticism, he is celebrated for his relentless pursuit of social justice and advancing the cause of equality. As he poignantly stated, “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.”
Commissioner Tony Petitti expressed the conference’s reverence for Robinson’s legacy, stating, "It is our privilege and great honor to bestow this award in Jackie’s name upon these deserving Big Ten student-athletes."
Criteria for Nomination: Making an Impact
Nominees were chosen based on their profound contributions to society, evaluated under these four key criteria:
- Demonstrated Impact: Significant and tangible contributions to community projects or causes.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Effectiveness in working with peers and community members to achieve common goals.
- Consistency and Commitment: Ongoing participation in community service activities over time.
- Visibility and Advocacy: Efforts to raise awareness for important causes, utilizing their platforms for positive change.
Sonya Pankey Robinson, granddaughter of Jackie Robinson, shared her enthusiasm for the award, stating, "The Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award celebrates Jackie’s legacy of excellence in community service."
Big Ten’s Commitment to Community Engagement
The Big Ten Conference has long been dedicated to nurturing student-athletes who excel not just in sports but also in their communities. Since its founding, the conference has valued both athletics and academics, evident in their Big Ten Medal of Honor, awarded annually to select student-athletes who achieve excellence in both realms.
Additionally, the Big Ten Equality Coalition, launched in June 2020, actively seeks constructive ways to combat racism and hate, empowering student-athletes to voice their rights and promote equality. A notable initiative stemming from these discussions is the Big Ten Voter Registration Initiative, which facilitates civic engagement among student-athletes.
Moreover, the conference has orchestrated immersive civil rights educational experiences such as the "Big Life Series: Selma to Montgomery," underlining their commitment to creating a lasting impact while fostering understanding and compassion.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Community Impact
The Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award is a powerful reminder of the significant role student-athletes play in fostering positive change. With a network of universities committed to academic and athletic excellence, the Big Ten Conference continues to champion the values of integrity, persistence, and community service. As we await the announcement of the overall winners, let’s celebrate not only the achievements of the nominees but also the inspiring legacy of Jackie Robinson.
For more information about the Big Ten Conference and its ongoing initiatives, visit www.bigten.org.
