New honor recognizes men who champion the advancement of women through visible leadership, advocacy, and action
PHOENIX — The Positively Powerful Development Corporation (PPDC) is proud to announce that NBA legend, Phoenix Suns icon, broadcaster, and philanthropist Eddie Johnson will receive the inaugural Positively Powerful Ally Award during the 17th Annual Positively Powerful Education Summit & Woman Awards on October 9, 2026, at The George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center in Phoenix.
The newly established Ally Award recognizes a man who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing women through leadership, advocacy, mentorship, and meaningful action. It honors those who stand alongside women—not quietly from the sidelines—but visibly, courageously, and consistently.
“This award represents something deeply important to our mission,” said Dr. Joel P. Martin, Founder and CEO of the Positively Powerful Education Summit & Woman Awards Conference. “Progress happens when women leaders are supported by individuals and organizations who are willing to use their influence to open doors, create opportunities, and advocate for equity. Eddie Johnson exemplifies that kind of leadership, and I cannot think of a more deserving person to become the first recipient of the Positively Powerful Ally Award.”
Following an impressive 17-year NBA career, including becoming one of the most beloved players in Phoenix Suns history, Johnson has continued to make an extraordinary impact off the court. He has served as a community advocate and celebrity ambassador for multiple causes. A nonprofit that is of significant importance to him is Helping Hands for Single Moms, a nonprofit organization founded by Chris Coffman in 2001 to assist low-income single moms attain their college education and financial independence. Johnson has used his platform to raise awareness and financial support for the nonprofit and serves as the primary host for the “Eddie Johnson & Friends” charity weekend. Over the years, his dedication has helped raise more than $3 million for the organization.
“The work Eddie has championed exemplifies that when we invest in women, we can uplift families, change communities, and impact future generations,” Martin added. “The service that Eddie gives to the community truly embodies our theme, Together, We Rise!”
“I learned a long time ago that making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate is a blessing, and I have spent my adult life working to do just that,” said Eddie Johnson. “With so many men in our state doing such incredible work, it is truly an honor to be selected as the first-time recipient of the inaugural Positively Powerful Ally Award.”
The Ally Award will become an annual tradition, recognizing influential men whose actions help accelerate opportunities for women in business, education, entrepreneurship, public service, and community leadership.
Johnson will be honored alongside an accomplished class of women leaders and the inaugural Corporate Leadership Award recipients during a day dedicated to education, inspiration, and collaboration.
The 2026 Positively Powerful Education Summit & Woman Awards Conference will bring together corporate executives, entrepreneurs, educators, nonprofit leaders, and community changemakers for impactful conversations on leadership, innovation, and opportunity.
This year’s conference also coincides with the 100th anniversary of the George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center, providing a historic backdrop for celebrating leadership and creating pathways for future generations.
Event Details
17th Annual Positively Powerful Education Summit & Woman Awards Conference
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
Registration is open, and you can reserve your seat by visiting positivelypowerful.com.
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 Conference
The Positively Powerful Education Summit & Woman Awards Conference is an award-winning annual leadership experience that recognizes extraordinary women 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.
