Laurie Hernandez

Laurie Hernandez, a retired artistic gymnast, has a rich history of accomplishments in her field. She was a part of the renowned "Final Five" U.S. women's gymnastics team, claiming the team gold medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Individually, Hernandez showcased her skills on the balance beam, earning a silver medal at the same Olympics. She also contributed to team gold victories at the 2016 City of Jesolo Trophy and 2016 Pacific Rim Gymnastics Championships. Hernandez's prowess extended beyond gymnastics, revealing her versatility as she won season 23 of "Dancing with the Stars" in 2016.

Continuing her pursuits in the entertainment industry, Hernandez served as the on-course reporter in the first season of "American Ninja Warrior Junior". She also lent her voice to the Nickelodeon animated miniseries "Middle School Moguls" where she played the character of Valeria. In 2024, Hernandez won the Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Live Special – Championship Event for her role as an event analyst at the Summer Olympics. She also offered valuable insights as a commentator for NBC during the 2020 Olympics. Hernandez's storytelling skills were not just limited to television, as she authored two books, "I Got This: To Gold and Beyond," a New York Times Bestseller, and "She's Got This," a children's book.

Hernandez has been recognized for her contributions to her field and the public. She received a Jefferson Award for Public Service and was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in June 2019. Even after retiring from gymnastics on June 6, 2021, Hernandez remained active in the gymnastics community, participating in Simone Biles' Gold Over America Tour in fall 2021. She has also been active as a public speaker, sharing her experiences and insights, including speaking at Central Michigan University in 2023.