PRINCETON, N.J. -
Celebrating its third year, the D&I Choice Award recognizes an NGB for best practices in advancing diversity and inclusion, as determined by a vote of NGB peers.
Originally launched in 2014 as a diversity initiative, USRowing’s Freedom Rows was established to increase the number of military service members and veterans with disabilities participating in adaptive and para-rowing categories. Freedom Rows aims to provide training and outreach coordination to Veteran's Affairs adaptive sports program managers, recreational therapists and coaches. Freedom Rows expanded to provide equipment and administrative support to 20 local clubs in 2015.
Jim Easton was named the Olympic Torch Award honoree, while Jim Eckford was selected to receive the Jack Kelly Fair Play Award presented by BP. Also, Glen Bennett and BlazeSports America were chosen as the individual and program recipients for the Rings of Gold awards. USA Synchro was named the 2016 recipient of the Advancing D&I Award.
2016 Award Winners
Olympic Torch Award: Jim Easton
Jack Kelly Fair Play Award presented by BP: Jim Eckford
Rings of Gold - Individual: Glen Bennnett
Rings of Gold - Program: BlazeSports America
Advancing D&I: USA Synchro
D&I Choice Award: USRowing