A devoted educator and diplomat for the U.S. Information Agency in Africa, Henning caught his first glimpse of Dikembe’s basketball talent during a game at Institute Boboto in Kinshasa. Impressed by the young player’s skill and awed by his 7’2” frame, Henning decided to send a videotape to Coach John Thompson at Georgetown, a decision that would forever shape the trajectory of Mutombo’s career.

Part of a tradition of great centers from Georgetown U, Alonzo Mourning was twice named NBA Defensive Player of the Year. In 1997, “Zo” established Alonzo Mourning Charities, Inc. to aid in the development of children and families in at-risk situations and to provide support and services that enhance the lives of youth of promise.

An American one-handed climber, Beck has faced people underestimating her for an entire lifetime on the mountain. She has responded with an impressive resume, placing in the World Paraclimbing Championships every year since 2014, including four national titles and two world championship first-place finishes.

Love of basketball, devotion to family, a tenacious work ethic—just a few of the many virtues that Dikembe’s older brother, Ilo, helped instill through example. From the moment he dragged a young, reluctant Dikembe onto a basketball court, through a season playing together on the Zairean national team, and across a lifetime of brotherly support, Ilo has remained a steady influence and trusted confidante.

Alex Honnold remains the only person to ever free-solo El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. This was called, “One of the greatest athletic feats of all time” by the New York Times. He holds the record for fastest ascent of the Yosemite Triple Crown.

A groundbreaking figure in competitive rock climbing, Lynn Hill made a name for herself during the 1980s.

---

“The rock is what is it is, and it’s up to you to adapt yourself to the rock.”

---

It wasn’t until her free ascent of The Nose on El Capitan that she gained true notoriety. The first person to ever accomplish this feat, many thought The Nose was an impossible climb until Hill successfully navigated it.

A four-time member of the NBA’s All-Defensive Team, “Deke” Mutombo is commonly regarded as one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players of all time. Winner of the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award four times, he was also an eight-time All-Star.

---

“My life’s mission is to keep improving living conditions for the people of Africa.”

---

His most lasting influence on the game, and the world at large, is reflected in his commitment to improving life through humanitarian efforts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.