Number 53
Big Ten Launches Jackie Robinson Award for Community Impact
Featured Focus:
Athlete-Driven Impact, Community Programs,
Leadership Development
Scope of Impact: National / Regional
The Big Ten Conference will recognize student-athletes who make a difference in their communities with the newly established Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award. Here are the details:
What's the Award? Launched in 2025, this award celebrates Big Ten student-athletes for their positive community contributions, mirroring Jackie Robinson's legacy of service and excellence.
Who's Eligible? Each Big Ten school nominates a male and female athlete based on impact, teamwork, commitment, and advocacy, with two overall winners selected. All nominees receive recognition for their efforts.
Why Does It Matter? The award emphasizes the importance of student-athletes using their platform for good, honoring Robinson's belief in the power of individual impact on others.
The inaugural Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award represents a significant step in formally recognizing the outstanding community service contributions of student-athletes.
We love it because it has the potential to inspire future generations of Big Ten student-athletes to actively engage with their communities. Even though two national winners were announced, the Big Ten recognized all 36 nominees to put a real spotlight on this initiative and foster a culture of philanthropy.
In the era of NIL deals, this could have a significant impact on how student-athletes include community activities as part of their endorsements. Outside of the Big Ten, we looked into Paige Buecker’s philanthropic playbook as the perfect example of that momentum in college sport (check out our DL42 for more).
YOUR NEXT PLAY:
The earlier that athletes start to incorporate community support into their practices, the better it is for everyone, starting a ripple effect that sets a precedent for an entire generation. As leaders in the sports world, it’s our responsibility to open doors, encourage, and recognize student-athletes’ foray into social change and philanthropy. Where are there opportunities for your team, league, or organization to set the stage this year? Let us know your ideas!
Meet the 36 nominees announced for the inaugural Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award
Maryland football defensive lineman Dillan Fontus receives the first award, with the women’s winner still to come.
Learn about Jackie Robinson's legacy and the foundation's work in education and leadership.
Overview of NCAA's commitment to community engagement by student-athletes.
Miami Athletics wins their third NCAA Team Works Community Service Competition, with more 99% of athletes giving back.
The nonprofit helps college athletes build develop leadership and advocacy skills, and play an active role in supporting their communities.
