Breaking Barriers, Setting Records, and Changing Lives
Jackie Joyner-Kersee isn’t just a name in sports history—she’s a symbol of excellence, resilience, and the power of giving back. Born and raised in East St. Louis, IL, she turned to sports as a refuge, using her athleticism to rise above the challenges of poverty, discrimination, and tragedy. Her discipline and drive propelled her to become one of the greatest track and field athletes of all time, setting world records and winning six Olympic medals across four Olympic Games.
Jackie didn’t just compete—she dominated. She set the heptathlon world record in 1988, a record that still stands today. She became the first woman to score over 7,000 points in the event, proving that limits were meant to be shattered. Her dominance in the long jump and heptathlon made her a global icon, but it’s her relentless spirit and commitment to uplifting others that define her true legacy.
Giving Back: The Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation
Jackie’s success on the track was only the beginning. Knowing firsthand how sports can shape lives, she founded the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center and the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation, dedicated to providing youth in East St. Louis access to sports, education, and leadership development. Her goal? To ensure that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to achieve greatness.
Through these initiatives, Jackie has empowered thousands of young athletes to believe in themselves, set goals, and push past adversity. Her work extends far beyond competition—she is actively shaping the future, giving back to the very community that raised her.
A Champion On and Off the Track
Jackie’s impact was recognized in 2024 when she received the Play for Good Mia Hamm Founders Award at Athletes for Hope’s Play for Good event. This honor highlights her lifelong commitment to using her platform for good, inspiring athletes to give back and serve their communities.
Her words, “Being an athlete is a kind of grace,” reflect more than just the physical skill required to compete—they represent the strength, character, and purpose that define a true champion.
Celebrating Jackie’s Legacy
As we celebrate Women’s History Month and Jackie’s 63rd birthday, we recognize her as more than just an athlete—she is a force of nature, a trailblazer, and a beacon of hope. She proved that greatness is not just about medals and records but about the lives you uplift along the way.
Jackie Joyner-Kersee’s story is a reminder that perseverance, passion, and purpose can change the world. Today, we honor her legacy and the path she continues to pave for generations to come.
Happy Birthday, Jackie!
