Chamber Announces Gold Medal Olympian Dominique Dawes as 138th Annual Gala Speaker

The Boise Metro Chamber’s 138th Annual Gala Dinner and Auction will be held on Tuesday, October 19 from 6–9:15 p.m. at the Boise Centre. This year’s Gala will feature Olympic gold medal gymnast Dominique Dawes.
 
Dominique Dawes is best known for her tremendous success as a gymnast and three-time Olympian (1992 Barcelona, 1996 Atlanta, and 2000 Sydney). Dawes won four Olympic medals and was inducted into the U.S. Olympic Committee Hall of Fame. As a member of the 1996 Atlanta Games “Magnificent Seven,” she won a bronze medal in the floor exercise, becoming the first female African American gymnast to win an individual medal, as she and her team won the all-around gold medal. Dominique was awarded the Henry P. Iba Citizen Award, presented annually to two outstanding athletes who have demonstrated good citizenship, was named Sportsperson of the Year by USA Gymnastics, and was a finalist for the AAU Sullivan Award.
 
Dominique is committed to helping today’s girls realize their full potential and has teamed up with Girl Scouts of the USA to launch “Uniquely Me! The Girl Scout Self-Esteem Program.” This national program provides a nurturing environment and an educational curriculum to build a positive self-esteem in young girls ages 8 to 18, with a specific focus on those in under-represented communities. A mother of four young kids, she empowers and inspires audiences through her transparent and emotionally captivating speeches. Her career may be best known for her Olympic feats; but her ability to connect with people through her incredible journey to Olympic history continues to improve and inspire others. In addition, comedian and entertainer Greg Schwem will emcee the event.
 
“In this Olympic year, we are excited to have an Olympic champion like Dominque Dawes headlining the Boise Chamber’s biggest gala event of the year. As the first African American gymnast to medal in the Olympics, she is one of America’s most inspiring heroes. We are sure that her appearance in Boise this October will generate tremendous positive energy and excitement. Please join us on October 19 to welcome an American hero to Boise,” said Bill Connors, President and CEO of the Boise Metro Chamber.
 
Tickets for members and their guests are available for $125 each. Tickets for non-members and their guests are $175 each. A VIP reception, including a photo with Dominique Dawes, is available for an additional $100.
 
The 138th Annual Gala is supported by presenting sponsor Blue Cross of Idaho, platinum sponsor Bank of Idaho, and gold sponsor Albertsons. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Contact Teresa Kirkmire at (208) 472-5241 for details.

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