WNBA Atlanta Dream

L.E.A.D. Co-Founder Kelli Stewart Honored by Atlanta Dream

Published on June 15, 2010 under Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA)
Atlanta Dream News Release


ATLANTA, June 15, 2010 - The WNBA's Atlanta Dream honored Kelli Stewart as an Inspiring Woman on Sunday, June 13. Kelli and husband C.J. co-founded L.E.A.D. (Launch. Expose. Advise. Direct.), the country's first instructional play baseball program for inner city youth.

The WNBA's Inspiring Women platform celebrates leaders who help ignite the dreams and aspirations of women in all endeavors and honors women who embody the same qualities as the players. Throughout the 2010 season, the Atlanta Dream will recognize an individual at each home game who inspires others through her commitment and dedication to work, family and community.

"It is important that our L.E.A.D.-trained young men gain exposure to professional athletes as community role models," said Stewart. "I am so honored to be chosen as an Atlanta Dream Woman of Inspiration and thank the team for playing an active role in our community and striving to make a difference. We are proud to support the team through L.E.A.D. and as a family with our two daughters."

This year's recipients include women of all backgrounds who are united in their ability to impact the community around them and inspire our leaders of tomorrow. Other 2010 honorees include Elana Meyers (Olympic medalist in bobsled) and Angelou Ezeilo (executive director of the Greening Youth Foundation).

"Kelli's work with L.E.A.D. and heart for inner city baseball is such an inspiration," said Toby Wyman, Dream president and COO. "We know children and teens who play team sports are more successful as they grow older. We applaud Kelli and C.J.'s work with Atlanta youth and are proud to recognize her impact."

Kelli Stewart serves as the executive director of L.E.A.D. In April, L.E.A.D. announced Atlanta Braves right fielder Jason Heyward as an Honorary Ambassador and spokesperson. In May, the L.E.A.D. Middle School Baseball Development League began its inaugural season, bringing the first ever baseball program to Atlanta Public School middle schools. L.E.A.D. also announced the entire 2010 Ambassador graduating class will receive college scholarships. To date, 100 percent of graduating Ambassadors have attended college and 83 percent have received college scholarships.

L.E.A.D. embraces the legacy of leadership demonstrated by African American legends in baseball to inspire a new generation of players and coaches to become engaged citizens in their communities and world. Through the program, student-athletes develop an improved skill set and a chance to gain access to competitive play.

Photo caption: L.E.A.D. Executive Director Kelli Stewart was honored by the Atlanta Dream as an Inspiring Woman on Sunday, June 13 at Phillips Arena. Atlanta Dream President and COO Toby Wyman presented Kelli with a plaque to commemorate the honor. Photo credit: Scott Cunningham/NBAE/Getty Images

Game outcome: The Dream defeated the San Antonio Silver Stars 90-83 on Sunday to remain in first place in the Eastern Conference.

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