Event Sponsors
Presence with Purpose
Every year, United Natives hosts its annual Sports Gala during Super Bowl Week, bringing together leaders in sports, business, and entertainment for an evening of purpose and impact. This signature event helps fund our year-round initiatives, including zero-cost mental health counseling across 30+ states, youth access to sports and STEM opportunities, and the launch of our innovative Health and Sports Apps. Your presence helps turn one unforgettable evening into lasting impact for communities nationwide.
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Sports Gala Host Committee
Eric B.
Hip Hop Hall of Famer & Legendary DJ, producer, rapper, and one half of the iconic duo Eric B. & Rakim. Eric B. also brought his talents to television as Lt. Mike Gee on CBS’s Blue Bloods.
Madeline Dinonno
President & CEO of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, leading global efforts to advance DEI in entertainment. A longtime entertainment executive and advocate for meaningful representation in media.
Kelly Warnell
Award-winning global entertainment strategist. 20+ years of industry experience and leadership roles with ESI Media and Hearst UK. Founder of Screen Masters International, representing top talent across film, television, music, gaming, and live entertainment.
Kenneth Shirley
Navajo filmmaker, director, choreographer, and founder of Indigenous Enterprise. His work brings Indigenous stories and culture to global audiences through film, dance, and live performance, including work featured at the Super Bowl, Lincoln Center, and Sydney Opera House.
Karen Clarkson
Award-winning Choctaw Traditional & Contemporary Artist recognized by the Santa Fe Indian Market, Heard Museum, and Choctaw Nation Indian Arts Show. Her honors include 2026 Best of Show at the Phippen Museum, First Place at the Heard Museum Indian Market, and the 2024 Arizona Governor’s Choice Award.
Lauren Sesselmann
Olympic bronze medalist and former Canadian National Team soccer player who competed at the 2012 London Olympics and 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup. A Pan American Games gold medalist and Purdue Athletics Hall of Famer, Lauren is passionate about empowering athletes and inspiring the next generation.
Chris James
Serves as President and CEO of the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development since 2017, leading national efforts to expand Tribal economic development and Native entrepreneurship. A former senior official with the U.S. Small Business Administration and Department of the Treasury, he has strengthened business opportunities and access to capital for Indigenous communities nationwide.
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