Michelle Tucker is an East St. Louis girl, just as Salute to Excellence in Education Lifetime Achiever award recipient Jackie Joyner-Kersee.
They also have something else in common – their respective birthdays on March 3.
The Olympian’s iconic athletic career has been matched by her dedication to education, especially in her hometown, which is inspiring to Tucker.
“Jackie Joyner-Kersee’s incredible journey from East St. Louis to becoming one of the greatest athletes in history has profoundly inspired me and countless kids in our community, said Tucker.
“Watching her achieve remarkable milestones, like world records in the heptathlon and long jump, and earning six Olympic medals from 1984 to 2000, taught us all to dream bigger.”
Through JJK’s inspiration, Tucker now helps bring needed services and support to dozens of organizations as president and CEO of the United Way of Greater St. Louis.
“As a young Black female, I felt a special connection to Jackie, especially knowing we share the same birthday,” Tucker said.
“It’s truly amazing to now consider her a friend and to exchange personal texts on our special day just to check in on one another. I want to thank Jackie for being an outstanding example of excellence and inspiration for us all.”
Tucker said United Way of Greater St. Louis has been a supporter of the Jackie Joyner Kersee Foundation initiatives for over two decades sponsoring youth-centered programs and financial stability initiatives totaling over $1.4 million.
Micheal McMillan, president and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, also hails Joyner-Kersee for her devotion to education and East St. Louis – where the Urban League opened its first headquarters in the region.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to partner with Jackie Joyner-Kersee and her foundation over the years in our shared mission to uplift and empower communities,” said McMillan.
“Jackie’s dedication to enriching the lives of young people through her foundation has had a profound and lasting impact not only in East St. Louis but across the nation. Her tireless work to create opportunities for youth to excel—whether in academics, athletics, or leadership—is a testament to her unparalleled commitment to giving back.”
At the Urban League, we have always admired Jackie’s vision and have been proud to collaborate on initiatives that align with our mission of economic and social empowerment. Her legacy as a world-class athlete is matched only by her passion for serving others, and her work continues to inspire future generations.
McMillan said the region should “not only her remarkable achievements on the world stage but also the incredible difference she has made at home.”
“Jackie Joyner-Kersee’s leadership and heart for her community will continue to inspire us all for years to come,” said McMillan.
Tucker shares that though and ends her praise of Joyner-Kersee by saying, “Signed – a hometown friend and true admirer of Jackie’s accomplishments.”
The St. Louis American Foundation’s 37th Annual Salute to Excellence in Education will take place on Saturday, October 12th at America’s center.
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