July 23, 2015

 

By Dr. Valerie Wardlaw 

LAWT Contributing Writer 

 

Kiesha Nix is the new Laker girl in town and what a gem she is!  The Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation, the official charitable arm of the Los Angeles Lakers and a registered 501(c) 3 has named Kiesha Nix as its new Executive Director.  In her new role, Nix will spearhead the philanthropic endeavors of the Los Angeles Lakers organization through strategic partnerships and grant awards.

 

Nix is no stranger to rendering service within the local communities having previously served as Assistant Vice President of Global Marketing and Corporate Affairs for Bank of America – Merrill Lynch.  A recipient of numerous community awards Nix is “thrilled and honored to be a part of the Laker family.”  “To think that I grew up loving the Lakers, going to the Laker parades and now I am a part of this amazing organization whose commitment to the Los Angeles community is strong and enduring.  I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve.  I really have to pinch myself.” Nix said.

 

The mission of the Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation and Nix’ passion for mentoring youth are a match made in heaven.   “Mentoring young people is one of my greatest passions.  I believe in the adage that it takes a village and we have amazing partners who support the Foundation’s efforts and are an integral part of what we do in promoting health and wellness through sports for undeserved youth.   I look forward to working with our partners and establishing new relationships within the local communities.” 

 

As accomplished as Nix is and her accomplishments are many… recipient of the Single Mom Planet’s Humanitarian Award, the corporate leadership award from the Regalettes, Inc., named one of Los Angeles 100 Most Prominent & Influential African Americans by the National Action Network, member of the USC Black Alumni Association Advisory Council, the Dodgers RBI Advisory Board, St. Mary’s Academy (Inglewood) Board of Directors and recipient of the Lifetime Community Service Award and the Global Diversity & Inclusion Award from Bank of American-Merrill Lynch, she considers her son, Fisk University college senior Kyler Franklin her greatest achievement.  “Being a single mom is so rewarding and challenging but I am extremely proud of Kyler and the young man that he has become.  He is a great human being… a wonderful citizen of the world.  Being his mom is what I am really grateful for and proud of.” 

 

When asked what is one nugget that she would pass on to single mothers, Nix responded without hesitation, “ask for help…you can’t do everything on your own.  Involve others who can impact your child’s life in a positive way.  It’s not a bad thing to say I need help.” 

Category: Sports