Vanessa currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the Gateway Classic Sports Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote education by raising scholarship revenue for deserving students to attend college. In 2009 - 2011, Vanessa held the position as the Assistant to the President & CEO . She, now, returns to the organization with the hopes of preserving the legacy of her uncle, the late Earl Wilson Jr.

 

The St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation has proudly invested more than $9 million into the community by financially assisting youth-related programs as well as full, four-year scholarships. Throughout the years, we've sponsored an amateur boxing tournament, a scholarship golf tournament and other events that recognize and pay tribute to deserving citizens. We've accomplished a lot for local youth, and we also recognize the impact our foundation has made. This foundation operates under the mantra of self-sufficiency. As we receive, we beleive it's important to give. That's why the doors of our building, constructed in 2002, have been open to community groups and event planners.

 

Our downtown location has become the meeting place for important regional discussions and events. Our Walk of Fame highlights the sacrifices and achievements of area African Americans. The Walk features bronze, diamond-shaped plates honoring the live of St. Louis-area legends such as Dick Gregory, Jackie-Joyner Kersee, former Congressman Wiliam L. Clay, Ozzie Smith, the 5th Dimensions and many more. Our goal for the future is to provide more educational and athletic opportunities to our roster of yearly events.

 

We welcome you to join us in meeting our goals by making a financial contribution to the St. Louis Gateway Classic Foundation or by using our beautiful facility for your next event, either way your support will go along way in empowering those we serve.

 

Sincerely,

Vanessa Hughes

COO