Prof. Jerono Phylis Rotich, a Kenya-born American and respected academic leader, has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime Presidential Award for her exceptional contributions to society in the United States.

This distinguished honor, signed by President Joe Biden Jr., recognizes Prof. Rotich’s dedication to promoting education, diversity, and cultural preservation through her work in academia and her role in safeguarding traditional sports and games.

The award ceremony was marked by the presence of notable dignitaries, including Sukhjinder Singh, the Chief Financial Officer of the International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG). Singh personally handed over the award to Prof. Rotich, acknowledging her pivotal role in the organization’s mission to preserve traditional sports and games globally.

In her acceptance speech, Prof. Rotich expressed her gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the importance of cultural heritage in shaping diverse and inclusive societies.

“This award is not just a testament to my work, but to the collective efforts of everyone dedicated to the preservation of cultural identity through traditional sports. I am deeply honored and inspired to continue this journey,” she said.

Prof. Rotich has served as a full Professor of Kinesiology and the Associate Dean for Organizational Climate, Inclusion, and Belonging at Indiana University Bloomington. Her contributions to the field of traditional sports have been instrumental through her engagement with the ICTSG, where she has actively participated in research and publications aimed at safeguarding cultural heritage.

The Lifetime Presidential Award celebrates her commitment to education, youth empowerment, and community development, both in the U.S. and globally.

As a Kenya-born American, Prof. Rotich’s journey is a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration and the impact of embracing diverse cultural backgrounds. Her leadership continues to inspire the next generation of scholars and cultural advocates.