INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (January 14, 2025) – Two-time Olympian and athlete advocate Evita Griskenas will join the USA Gymnastics Foundation in 2026 as its first ever Athlete Ambassador.
A past USA Gymnastics Foundation grant recipient, Griskenas will serve as a bridge between athletes and those who support them within the gymnastics community. By sharing her personal experiences and journey as an elite gymnast within the States, Griskenas aims to encourage the next generation and inspire generosity among those looking to support USA Gymnastics’ mission and the Foundation.
“In a gymnast’s journey, the smallest bit of support—academic, athletic, personal—can be the difference between success and a crushed dream,” said Griskenas, who completed her term as USAG Athlete’s Council Vice Chair in December. “As someone who has a strong passion for athlete wellbeing, development, and opportunity, I am genuinely honored to be the first athlete ambassador for the USA Gymnastics Foundation and am very eager to give back to the community that helped raise me.”
Griskenas competed at the 2020 and 2024 Olympic Games in rhythmic gymnastics and is an eight-time U.S champion. She also is a five-time World Championships team member and a 10-time Pan American Games medalist.
Her participation in the 2024 Olympic Games may not have been possible without emergency funding from the Foundation. A Foundation grant helped keep her on her feet and allowed her to continue her training after an unfortunate injury, arming her with first-hand experience that makes her an ideal fit for her new role, where she will help athletes just like her.
“The USA Gymnastics Foundation is proud to welcome Evita as our first Athlete Ambassador,” said Foundation Executive Director Debbie Hesse. “Evita’s powerful story and leadership as a trailblazing athlete will help deepen connections with our donors and supporters, inspiring greater investment in our mission to empower athletes and strengthen the future of gymnastics.”
For an overview on Evita Griskenas, visit her athlete bio page on the USA Gymnastics website. All information about the USA Gymnastics Foundation can be found at usagymfoundation.org.