2027 NACD Annual Meeting

2027 Annual Meeting Keynote Speakers

Dominique Dawes

Dominique Dawes is an Olympic gymnastics legend and Hall of Famer who made history across three Olympic Games (1992, 1996, and 2000), capturing four total medals. As the first African American gymnast to qualify for the Olympics, she broke barriers by becoming the first female African American to win an individual medal with her floor exercise bronze in 1996. A crucial member of the gold-medal-winning "Magnificent Seven" team, Dawes also dominated nationally, sweeping all four events at the 1994 National Championships and winning more national championship medals than any athlete since 1963.

Beyond gymnastics, Dawes successfully transitioned into entertainment and sports journalism. Her post-Olympic fame led to appearances on Wheaties cereal boxes, acting roles in television, a performance in a Prince music video, and a role on Broadway as Patty Simcox in Grease. She has also built an extensive broadcasting career as a sports analyst and commentator, covering major collegiate competitions and several Olympic Games for networks such as CBS, Fox Sports, TNT, and Good Morning America.

Off the mat, Dawes has dedicated her life to leadership, advocacy, and public speaking. A University of Maryland graduate and mother of four, she served as President of the Women’s Sports Foundation and has partnered with organizations like the Girl Scouts and Dove to promote youth self-esteem and health initiatives. Today, she travels as a renowned motivational speaker and offers private gymnastics coaching, using her relatable journey to empower young women and audiences worldwide.