Dedicated Volunteer and Effective Leader, Donna Guariglia Honored with USA Hockey’s Builders Award
Donna Guariglia has made a significant impact on USA Hockey, and her contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come.
Guariglia, the first female officer in the history of USA Hockey and one of the organization’s most prominent volunteers over the past twenty years, is set to receive USA Hockey’s Builders Award.
The Builders Award was created in 1999 to recognize an individual who has made enduring contributions to the long-term development and success of USA Hockey. Guariglia will be honored at the USA Hockey President’s Awards Dinner on June 5 in Denver.
“When I first learned about it, I was so surprised that I was momentarily speechless and became emotional,” Guariglia stated. “I am incredibly grateful, thankful, and humbled by this recognition. I feel truly honored and excited. I believe that any award I receive reflects the collective efforts of many others because it is not solely about me. I stand on the shoulders of countless individuals.”
The esteemed Builders Award is given to the architects of USA Hockey, the leaders who have set themselves apart through their commitment, vision, and passion for the game. This award acknowledges the contributions of individuals who have played a role in shaping the organization’s framework.
“She is truly deserving, and I am delighted that she is being recognized in this manner,” remarked Pat Kelleher, executive director at USA Hockey. “Donna has been an exceptional leader for USA Hockey for an extended period and has made significant contributions on the girls’ and women’s side, as well as serving on our board as treasurer. She plays a vital role in enhancing USA Hockey. She is a selfless volunteer who is eager to serve, yet she is also a very strong leader.”
Since the inception of the Builders Award in 1999, USA Hockey has only awarded it to nine individuals.
“Her legacy will be felt for generations, and I cannot think of anyone more worthy to be the ninth recipient of this honor,” stated Mike Trimboli, president of USA Hockey. “Donna has devoted a significant portion of her life to the advancement and improvement of USA Hockey, and this acknowledgment reflects not only her remarkable achievements but also the respect and admiration she has garnered throughout the entire hockey community.”
An economics major during her college years, Guariglia played a crucial role in guiding USA Hockey through challenging financial circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic. She ensured vital communication and transparency during difficult finance committee meetings at that time.
“We collaborated closely during that period and navigated some very tough decisions,” Kelleher noted. “We initially thought it might take us four years to recover from COVID, but with her guidance, we managed to bounce back in two years. Those were incredibly challenging times, but her leadership and dedication to USA Hockey were essential in helping us through and emerging on the other side.”
Guariglia is also a strong advocate for women’s hockey and served as the chair of the girls’ and women’s section from 2010 to 2015.
Before her involvement with USA Hockey, Guariglia was the president and founding member of the Mid-Atlantic Women’s Hockey Association and played a key role in introducing girls’ and women’s hockey to the New Jersey Colonials, an organization that has provided travel hockey for 55 years.
“We worked diligently to assist USA Hockey in their initiatives to increase participation among girls and women, to address their needs, and to ensure we created an environment where all players could thrive,” Guariglia explained. “Many rinks across the country lacked locker rooms or ice time for girls, and it often felt like an afterthought.”
Guariglia is a strong proponent of inclusivity for all individuals, which she embodies in her role with USA Hockey and as the mayor of Morris Township, New Jersey. She advocates for USA Hockey’s diversity initiatives and has served as the chair of the organization’s Diversity Task Force.
“She has long been a passionate supporter of expanding women’s hockey, promoting diversity and inclusion, and ensuring that opportunities are available for everyone who wishes to engage in the sport,” Trimboli remarked. “As the organization’s first female treasurer, she broke barriers and set a precedent for future generations of women leaders in our sport. Her influence has helped transform USA Hockey into a stronger, more inclusive organization.”
Kelleher referred to Guariglia as a champion for all.
“She advocates for her beliefs, but she does so in a friendly and people-first manner,” he stated. “She is committed to growing the game for everyone and approaches her work with integrity. Our organization would not be as successful as it is without her contributions and leadership.”
What stands out most to Trimboli about Guariglia is her steadfast professionalism, integrity, and dedication to doing what is right and beneficial.
“She leads with humility, compassion, and a genuine love for hockey and the individuals involved,” Trimboli noted. “She possesses a unique ability to balance strength and kindness, and she enhances the experience of everyone around her.”
Guariglia is concluding her tenure as treasurer with USA Hockey and intends to spend more time with her husband David, their four children, and seven grandchildren.
“I have a deep affection for the organization, and it has provided me with so much,” Guariglia expressed. “The financials, the organization, and the development are in excellent condition. The fact that we recently secured three gold medals reflects the outstanding work being done by everyone. I am someone who recognizes when it is time to step aside and allow the next person to take over.”
Story from Red Line Editorial, Inc.
