Emilio Cortez: Artist, Leader, PRO

As anticipation builds for the upcoming Medal of Leadership Awards Ceremony, Pro Sports Assembly proudly unveils its latest venture with a Power of PRO Exclusive "Get to Know" series. This initiative shines a spotlight on the exceptional individuals slated for recognition at this year's event in Austin, TX!

Leading the charge is Emilio Cortez, Senior Coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers and the visionary behind the artistic concept of the Medal of Leadership Awards medal. Tasked with designing this prestigious emblem, Cortez reflects on the profound honor and humility he felt upon being entrusted with such a significant endeavor. Check out the highlights from his interview and delve into Emilio’s journey, inspirations, and the meaningful impact his creation will have on the pro sports community.

PRO: What was your reaction when you were asked to design the medal?

Cortez: I was truly honored and humbled to be asked to design such a special piece. Knowing the vast pool of talented artists worldwide, being chosen as the artist for this project was incredibly meaningful.. Using my artistic background is always a joy, and applying it in the professional sports world was beyond my imagination. From the first conversation, I was filled with happiness, gratitude, and pride, knowing the significance of what Pro Sports Assembly represents.

PRO: How did you approach the medal design process? Did you have a specific concept or theme in mind?

Cortez: I took some time to look at various medal designs and styles from different sports and the Olympics. My goal was to craft something unique that represented all people in professional sports.??

PRO: Fast forward 10 years from now, what do you want people to feel when they look at their medals?

Cortez: 10 years from now I want people to feel proud and happy about the effort they’ve put in to earn a special and unique piece like this medal. I want people to know that this medal represents the lasting impact of making professional sports a better place for all.

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PRO: What was it like when you saw the medal in real life for the first time?

Cortez: Seeing the medal in person for the first time was so exciting! Looking at it closely and seeing how all the details looked was a truly great experience. I remember calling over my colleagues who were in attendance to check it out. I also had the chance to personally congratulate Cynt Marshall, Elizabeth Jenkins, wife of Jason Jenkins, and a few other awardees that evening. I shared a bit about the work that went into creating the medal for the inaugural ceremony. Seeing their reaction as they were awarded was a great experience. It was a proud moment in my career as an artist to be able to blend the worlds of art and sports to make this special piece.

PRO: What’s next?

Cortez: The projects will continue. I have a few private commissions as well as some sports related projects that you will see very soon. I plan to continue to use my passion for art and my work in community impact to continue to make a positive impact in the professional sports world and my community.

The 2024 Medal of Leadership Awards will be presented at The Assembly Leadership Retreat on June 5, 2024. Join leaders from across the pro sports industry in celebrating not only the outstanding individuals honored at this year's event but also the enduring legacy of Emilio Cortez's artistic vision. ?For more information and to purchase tickets to the 2024 PRO Medal of Leadership Awards ceremony, Click Here.

About the Medal of Leadership Awards

The Medal of Leadership Awards, a hallmark initiative by Pro Sports Assembly, stands as a beacon of recognition for those trailblazers who exemplify the essence of inclusive leadership, leaving an indelible mark on the professional sports industry. This prestigious accolade celebrates leaders within PRO, whose impact resonates far beyond the confines of their organizations, setting new standards of excellence in leadership.?

At its core, Pro Sports Assembly endeavors to honor individuals who are not only shaping robust and equitable organizations but also fostering vibrant and thriving communities. Inspired by the transformative leadership and legacy of icons like Jason Jenkins and Cynt Marshall, whose commitment to inclusivity has redefined industry norms, the Medal of Leadership Awards symbolize the embodiment of PRO values and the unwavering dedication to driving positive change.

About Pro Sports Assembly

Established in 2019, Pro Sports Assembly (“PRO”) is the association for professional sports business leaders. Members of PRO are inclusive leaders who believe in the power of uniting as a force for good to create a stronger, healthier, and fairer future for the professional sports industry. The power of Pro Sports Assembly comes to life because PRO members champion their individual development, organization and industry. Collectively, PRO members set the standard for leadership excellence in professional sports. For more information, please visit www.prosportsassembly.org.