Culturefix Gala: Global Leadership Award and Cultural Diplomacy Honoree Dinner
On the evening of Wednesday, June 5, Meridian held the fifth annual Culturefix Awards Ceremony and Gala as part of daylong Culturefix celebrations.
This year’s gala honored NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell for his leadership in transforming American football into a global platform for cultural connection and international engagement. Under his direction, the NFL has expanded its global reach and championed flag football’s inclusion in the Olympics, exemplifying the growing role of sports diplomacy in bridging divides and fostering mutual understanding.
The evening also celebrated three additional honorees whose creative work has elevated culture as a conduit for diplomacy: visual artist Sanford Biggers, interior designer Mark D. Sikes, and actress, playwright, and educator Anna Deavere Smith.
Sanford Biggers, a celebrated artist, was honored for his multidisciplinary approach to art, which reinterprets cultural symbols to explore identity and human experience. His work, showcased globally, transforms spaces into vibrant platforms for dialogue. Mark D. Sikes, an acclaimed interior designer, received accolades for his visionary work, particularly his elegant and globally inspired design of Blair House, the President's guesthouse. Sikes believes that design can be a powerful diplomatic tool, building bridges and initiating conversations. Anna Deavere Smith, a pioneering actress, playwright, and educator, was celebrated for her groundbreaking verbatim theatre. Her unique method captures authentic voices to illuminate complex social and political issues. Smith described art and sports as a "flirtation"—both beautiful and compelling, yet tough enough to tackle challenging subjects.
The night ended with a captivating performance by Nia Drummond. Her rendition of What The World Needs Now Is Love reinforced the evening's central message that connection, understanding, and shared humanity are imperative to create a path forward.
Project summary
| Culturefix Gala: Global Leadership Award and Cultural Diplomacy Honoree Dinner | June 2025 | |
|---|---|
| Countries: | United States |
| Impact Areas: | Sports and Cultural Diplomacy |
| Program Areas: | Sports and Culture |