Greater Columbus Sports Commission CEO Linda Logan Honored with Spirit of Columbus Award

Linda Logan, chief executive officer and president of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission since its inception in 2002, received the Spirit of Columbus Award on June 22 from Columbus Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer Doug Kridler at Lower.com Field during a Columbus Crew match.

Under Logan’s guidance, the Greater Columbus Sports Commission has become a driving force in bringing major sporting events to the city including the NCAA Women’s Final Four, MLS All-Star Game, NHL Stadium Series, NHL All-Star Game and U.S. Figure Skating Championships. These events have brought national and international attention to the city and have provided economic impact for local athletes and businesses. Columbus will also be the host for the 2025 TEAMS Conference & Expo.

“Linda’s visionary leadership, collaborative spirit and unwavering community pride have helped position Columbus as one of the premier sports destinations in the country,” said Doug Kridler, president and chief executive officer of The Columbus Foundation.

Since 2018, the Greater Columbus Sports Commission has organized Community Cup, an annual one-day challenge in which local companies of all sizes compete in various sporting events. In 2021, the Greater Columbus Sports Commission also launched Community Youth Camp, where children ages 6 to 12 have the opportunity to learn and play more than a dozen sports alongside volunteer athletes.

“Linda has done so much to elevate Columbus and women through sports,” said Katie Smith, former Ohio State basketball standout, WNBA player and assistant coach, and inductee into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. “Her authentic, genuine, and collaborative approach is unmatched. She’s our MVP.”

The Spirit of Columbus Award was created in 2013 in honor of Jerrie Mock, the first woman to fly solo around the world. It is given to individuals who have made a significant impact on the community through their leadership and dedication.