Honorees
The Rafer Johnson Breakfast with Champions
Speakers and Honorees
Welcome
Tom Stevens
SOSC Up to the Minute
Kelly Pond
SOSC President and CEO
Athlete Speaker
Michael Leon
Michael León has been a SOSC athlete since 2009, competing in multiple sports and competitions. Autism and diabetes have not deterred him from his achievements. As a Global and Health Messenger, Michael advocates for inclusion and wellness, speaking to groups and supporting major events like the Law Enforcement Torch Run.
He made history as the first Athlete Representative on the SOSC LETR Council and now serves as Co-Chair of its Marketing and Communications committee. Michael is also a passionate teacher through Tierra Del Sol, where he leads classes on communication, exercise, and healthy living.
One of Michael’s favorite quotes came from Rafer Johnson: “What matters is becoming the best you can be at whatever you’re doing.” He’s proud to have met Rafer and to carry on his spirit through leadership and sport. Among his many honors are the Richard L. Van Kirk Outreach Award, LETR Athlete of the Year, and carrying the Flame of Hope at the 2022 USA Games. While his entire family coaches with Special Olympics, Michael is proudly known as the most decorated athlete in the family.
Parent Speaker
Gayla Gibson
Gayla Gibson has been proudly involved with Special Olympics for the past three years. Gayla serves as a dedicated Volunteer, Fan in the Stands, and Mentor, while granddaughters Angie and Hailey are both Athletes and Global Messengers for Kern County.
The girls compete year-round in softball, basketball, floorball, bocce, and bowling, building not only their athletic skills but also their self-confidence and friendships along the way.
For Gayla and her family, Special Olympics has become a second home and a supportive community they cherish deeply. They are passionate about attending practices and events throughout Kern County and surrounding areas, celebrating every moment together.
Keynote Speaker
Jenny Johnson Jordan
Jenny Johnson Jordan, head coach of UCLA Beach Volleyball, has been connected to Special Olympics Southern California her entire life as she is the daughter of our founder, Olympic legend Rafer Johnson. A former UCLA standout and Olympian herself, Jenny is now in her 12th season with the Bruins and second as head coach. She led the team to the NCAA Championship finals in 2024 and has contributed to multiple national titles as both a player and coach.
Beyond her coaching career, Jenny has also represented Team USA in beach volleyball at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, finishing fifth. Jenny continues to lead by example, carrying forward her father’s legacy and commitment to excellence.
The 2025 Rafer Johnson Humanitarian Award
Rob Friedman
Rob Friedman is a renowned entertainment executive and longtime supporter of Special Olympics Southern California. Currently Chairman and CEO of Ascendant Entertainment and President of Rainbow RF, Rob has held top leadership roles at Lionsgate, Summit Entertainment, Paramount Pictures, and Warner Bros.
Rob has received numerous industry and humanitarian awards and has been a dedicated SOSC board member since 1992. In 2015, he founded and chaired the Special Olympics World Games Organizing Committee and continues to serve on SOSC’s Executive Committee and Cabinet Leadership Group. A passionate advocate for education and inclusion, Rob also serves on the boards of Curtis School and UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television.