Professor of Practice Nicole Kraft, director of the university’s Sports and Society Institute, was named the Summer 2026 Columbus Sports Community Champion by the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. 

The Sports and Society Institute is the university’s hub for sport-focused research, programming and student career-readiness. Kraft teaches sports writing and news writing in the School of Communication. 

The Columbus Sports Community Champion Award was created by the Greater Columbus Sports Commission in 2025 to recognize individuals who use sports to make a meaningful impact in their communities. One honoree is selected each quarter, representing people who make a lasting impact on others in the sports industry. 

Kraft will be honored at the commission’s Nov. 18 meeting. 

See the Columbus Sports Commission’s interview with Kraft about her work with The Sports and Society Institute and her dedication to helping students pursue careers in the sports industry.