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Kim Davis Honored with 2026 Visionary Leader Award

On February 5, 2026, the Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership announced that Kim Davis, the Senior Executive Vice President of Social Impact, Growth Initiatives, and Legislative Affairs at the NHL, has been chosen as the recipient of the prestigious 2026 Helen G. Drinan Visionary Leader Award. This accolade celebrates her remarkable contributions to inclusive leadership and her poignant influence across various sectors including sports, culture, and business.

Kim Davis has played a pivotal role at the NHL over the years, steering the organization towards a future where diversity and inclusion are paramount. Under her leadership, the league has made significant strides in attracting and nurturing a diverse fan base, particularly focusing on multicultural audiences. Davis’s strategic vision has not only affected the NHL’s organizational culture but has also led to a noticeable shift among all 32 NHL Club owners and executives, impacting areas such as social responsibility and sustainability.

"Receiving this award is particularly meaningful because it highlights the importance of fearless women who understand that equitable leadership sits at the heart of financial success and competitive advantage within the marketplace," Davis shared regarding her recognition.

Her professional journey spans over three decades and is characterized by trailblazing initiatives that have reshaped operational frameworks within the sports industry. Her deep expertise in strategic planning and coalition building has enabled her to empower organizations to exploit their potential effectively, ensuring sustainable success through data-driven decision making combined with an unwavering commitment to progress.

Davis’s influence in the field has been acknowledged through numerous accolades, including being listed among The Hockey News' Top 100 Most Influential Leaders in Sports and Adweek's 30 Most Powerful Women in Sports. Further recognition includes her status as a member of Sports Business Journal's GameChangers and Savoy Magazine's Most Influential Women in Corporate America. In appreciation of her contributions to the community and her professional accomplishments, she was named one of the Top 100 Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America by Savoy Magazine and appeared alongside First Lady Michelle Obama in Essence magazine's 28 Most Influential Black Women in America in 2012.

The award ceremony is set to take place on March 17, 2026, at the Westin Copley in Boston. This event will celebrate not only Davis’s achievements but also mark a milestone for women leaders in all sectors. The Simmons Leadership Conference aims to gather thought leaders from around the world to discuss innovative strategies and to foster inclusive cultures within their organizations. Through both in-person and virtual participation, thousands will join this celebration of exceptional leadership.

As Davis prepares to receive this well-deserved recognition, her achievements remind us all of the profound impact that inclusive leadership can have on traditional frameworks, reinforcing the values of diversity and social responsibility across industries. Her legacy serves as an inspiration for future leaders, encouraging them to strive for inclusivity and to prioritize social impact as integral components of their professional journeys.

The Simmons Leadership Conference embodies a collective aspiration to elevate the conversation regarding leadership excellence and cultural inclusivity. This year, all eyes will certainly be on Kim Davis as she stands as a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership, and a beacon for future generations of leaders in sports and beyond.