Derek Jeter’s 26th Annual Turn 2 Foundation Dinner raises $2 Million for youth development programs
Iconic, multi-platinum, GRAMMY-Award winning artists Joey Fatone of *NSYNC & Wanyá Morris of Boyz II Men hosted AFTR PRTY, which featured performances by special surprise guests
Co-anchor of “TODAY” and co-host of “TODAY with Hoda & Jenna” Hoda Kotb hosted the event; Late Gerald Williams honored as Turn 2’s 2022 MVP
NEW YORK – October 26, 2022 – Baseball Hall of Famer Derek Jeter and Turn 2 President Sharlee Jeter were joined by hundreds of celebrities, athletes, friends, family and supporters for the 26th Annual Turn 2 Foundation Dinner at The Glasshouse on Wednesday evening.
The star-studded event celebrated Turn 2’s work to create positive change and raised $2 million to support the Foundation’s signature programs that foster leadership development, academic excellence and healthy lifestyles among young people.
Hoda Kotb, co-anchor of NBC News’ TODAY and co-host of TODAY with Hoda & Jenna, returned to serve as the emcee of this year’s event. Among the evening’s highlights was a conversation presented by The Players’ Tribune with Derek Jeter and Misty Copeland, the first African American female principal ballet dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, moderated by Jay Williams, former NBA player and television analyst. Later in the evening, iconic, multi-platinum, GRAMMY-Award winning artists Joey Fatone of NSYNC and Wanyá Morris of Boyz II Men hosted AFTR PRTY, which featured surprise performances by lead vocalist of Creed Scott Stapp, Impractical Jokers’ James Murray and hip-hop artist Rob Base. The event also featured live and silent auctions with unique memorabilia and experiences.
“For the last 26 years, Turn 2 has had an incredible impact on so many young people, and as we look ahead to the future, it is so important that we continue advancing our mission to support youth and provide them with the tools they need to succeed,” said Derek Jeter. “I’d like to thank our partners, sponsors, donors and friends, whose ongoing support has not only helped Turn 2 become what it is today, but ensured that we can truly bolster our programs and reach hundreds more young people.”
Turn 2 honored the late Gerald Williams, Major League Baseball outfielder, with the 2022 MVP Award for the profound impact he had on countless young people across the country through his work both on and off the field. In addition to supporting local initiatives in New Orleans, where he was raised, Williams served as a dedicated member on Turn 2’s Board of Directors and devoted his time to inspiring children to dream big during the Foundation’s Baseball Clinics. Williams’ wife, Liliana, accepted the award on his behalf during a moving presentation that paid tribute to his life and legacy.
The 2022 graduates of the Jeter’s Leaders program were also celebrated during the Annual Dinner. Each of the senior New York and Kalamazoo Jeter’s Leaders graduated high school in the spring and are currently pursuing their passions at some of the nation’s top colleges and universities, including Columbia University, Yale University and Cornell University, among others. Turn 2 recognized the students for their commitment to academic excellence, community service, leadership and social change. The Jeter’s Leaders initiative is a four-year leadership program for high school students in New York City and West Michigan who serve as ambassadors for Derek Jeter in their communities.
“Inspiring youth to rise above negative influences, lead healthy lifestyles and serve as leaders is at the core of Turn 2’s mission,” said Sharlee Jeter, president of The Turn 2 Foundation. “Each of our programs motivate young people to channel their passion and determination into greatness, and recognize the endless possibilities that lie ahead for their future. We are so grateful to all who joined us for this year’s special event, which raised critical funds that will enable us to expand our initiatives and provide more youth with opportunities to succeed and leave their mark on this world.”
Celebrity guests included: Hannah Jeter, Tiki Barber, Traci Johnson, Joey Fatone, James Murray, Nate Burleson, CC Sabathia, Misty Copeland, Harry Carson, Stefanie Dolson, DJ Premier, Dr. Sampson Davis, Wanyá Morris, Tino Martinez, Darius Miles, Melba Wilson, John Franco, Randy Wilkins, Joe Torre, John Starks and Jay Williams.