New honor recognizes men who champion the advancement of women through visible leadership, advocacy, and action.
The work Eddie Johnson has championed exemplifies that when we invest in women, we uplift families, change communities, and impact future generations. He truly embodies our theme, Together, We Rise!”— Dr. Joel P. Martin, Founder, Positively Powerful Development CorporationPHOENIX, AZ, UNITED STATES, August 11, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The Positively Powerful Development Corporation (PPDC) has revealed that NBA legend, Phoenix Suns icon, broadcaster, and philanthropist Eddie Johnson will be the first recipient of the Positively Powerful Ally Award. The honor will be presented during the 17th Annual Positively Powerful Education Summit & Woman Awards on October 9, 2026, at The George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center in Phoenix.
This brand-new Ally Award is designed to recognize a man who has shown an unwavering dedication to elevating women through leadership, advocacy, mentorship, and concrete action. It celebrates those who stand beside women not in silence, but in a visible, courageous, and consistent manner.
“Communities come together and lives improve when women leaders have the backing of individuals and organizations willing to leverage their influence to open doors, generate opportunities, and push for equity,” stated Dr. Joel P. Martin, Founder and CEO of PPDC.
“Eddie Johnson exemplifies that kind of leadership,” Dr. Martin continued. “He has utilized his platform and reach to serve as a major community champion, celebrity ambassador, and key fundraiser for Helping Hands for Single Moms, a nonprofit created by Chris Coffman. Having been raised by a single mother myself, I am driven to highlight the shared commitment of Eddie and Chris, which is creating real change. That is why Eddie Johnson will be the first man to receive the inaugural Positively Powerful Ally Award. I see tremendous value in continuing this award for many years to come.”
After a stellar 17-year NBA career, which cemented his status as one of the most cherished players in Phoenix Suns history, Johnson has maintained a remarkable impact away from the court. He has taken on roles as a community advocate and celebrity ambassador for numerous causes. A particularly meaningful effort for him is Helping Hands for Single Moms, an organization that helps low-income single mothers pursue college degrees and achieve financial self-sufficiency. Founded in 2001 by Minister Coffman, the group has greatly benefited from Johnson’s passionate engagement. He organizes the “Eddie Johnson & Friends” charity weekend to benefit Helping Hands for Single Moms, and over the years, he has contributed to raising more than $3 million for the organization.
"I realized a long time ago that improving the lives of those who are less fortunate is a true blessing, and I have dedicated my adult life to doing exactly that,” Eddie Johnson remarked. “Given the incredible work so many men are doing across our state, it is a genuine privilege to be chosen as the first recipient of the inaugural Positively Powerful Ally Award."
"The work Eddie Johnson has championed in the community exemplifies that when we invest in women, we can uplift families, change communities, and impact future generations," Dr. Martin added. "His service truly embodies our theme, Together, We Rise!"
Moving forward, the Ally Award will be presented annually to honor influential men whose efforts accelerate opportunities for women in business, education, entrepreneurship, public service, and community leadership. Johnson will be celebrated during the 2026 Positively Powerful Awards ceremonies, which also feature tributes to Women Leaders and the first Corporate Leadership Award recipients, all as part of a day centered on education, inspiration, and collaboration.
The 2026 Positively Powerful Education Summit & Woman Awards will gather corporate executives, entrepreneurs, educators, nonprofit leaders, and community changemakers for meaningful discussions on leadership, innovation, and opportunity. This year’s event also coincides with the 100th anniversary of the George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center, offering a historic setting for honoring leadership and building pathways for future generations.
Event Details
17th Annual Positively Powerful Education Summit & Woman Awards
Theme: Together, We Rise!
Date & Time: Friday, October 9, 2026 | 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: The George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center, 415 E. Grant Street, Phoenix
Individual and Sponsorship Registrations are open. You can reserve your seat and sponsorship commitment on the event website.
ABOUT POSITIVELY POWERFUL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
The Positively Powerful Development Corporation (PPDC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women through educational and transformational leadership development. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, entrepreneurship initiatives, and community engagement, PPDC creates opportunities that expand access, inspire achievement, and contribute to sustainable personal and professional success.
ABOUT THE POSITIVELY POWERFUL EDUCATION SUMMIT & WOMAN AWARDS
The Positively Powerful Education Summit & Woman Awards is an award-winning annual leadership experience that recognizes extraordinary women, allies, and organizations while providing education, inspiration, and meaningful connections that empower current and future leaders. Now in its 17th year, PPDC continues to advance its mission of celebrating achievement while creating pathways for leadership through education, conversation, collaboration, and opportunity.
LaTricia H Woods
Mahogany Xan Communications
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