The National Hockey League (NHL) has announced the recipient of one of its prestigious awards recognizing significant contributions made off the ice.
Dr. Sarah Dunkel-Jackson has been named the U.S. winner of the Willie O`Ree Community Hero Award. This award honors an individual who has made a positive impact on their community, culture, or society through their involvement in the sport of hockey, the league stated in its Friday announcement.
As the founder of `Hockey Challenge Camp,` an ice-based program specifically designed for children with unique learning abilities and medical needs, Dr. Dunkel-Jackson developed accessible and adapted hockey programming. This initiative enables more children to experience the joys and benefits of participating in the sport.
The other U.S. finalists for this year`s award included Toni Gillen, director of Minnesota Diversified Hockey, which provides programs and equipment for individuals of all ages interested in blind hockey, deaf/hard of hearing hockey, special hockey, sledge hockey, and warrior hockey. Also recognized was Andrew Sobotka, former president of the Chicago Gay Hockey Association (CGHA), an organization providing a safe and inclusive environment for almost 100 hockey players throughout the year.
“Dr. Dunkel-Jackson demonstrates how one individual`s passion can strengthen a community,” commented NHL diversity ambassador Willie O’Ree in the league’s announcement. “Her commitment to her community is assisting numerous children in acquiring crucial life skills through hockey. Furthermore, it helps parents connect and find support with other families who share a passion for the sport. Congratulations, Dr. Dunkel-Jackson.”
Willie O`Ree made history as the first Black player in the NHL, playing for the Boston Bruins on January 18, 1958. Despite losing vision in his right eye early in life, the Fredericton, New Brunswick native had a professional hockey career spanning 21 years.
Dr. Dunkel-Jackson will be awarded a $25,000 prize, presented as a donation to a charity she selects. Gillen and Sobotka will each receive $5,000 donations for charities of their choice.
Duncan Priestley