Katou Kouami Earns ECC Dr. Robert Dranoff Excellence in Community and Character Award
WASHINGTON, D.C. – University of the District of Columbia senior track & field student-athlete Emmanuela Katou Kouami has been named a recipient of the 2025-26 East Coast Conference Dr. Robert Dranoff Excellence in Community and Character Award, the conference announced.
Katou Kouami shares the prestigious honor with Roberts Wesleyan senior Jessica Montemorano, becoming one of two student-athletes recognized by the ECC for their outstanding commitment to community service, leadership, character, and academic and athletic excellence.
A biology major with a 3.4 GPA, Katou Kouami has become one of the most respected student leaders at the University of the District of Columbia through her unwavering commitment to service, advocacy, and athletic excellence. As President of UDC's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) for the past two years, she has transformed the organization into a driving force for community engagement and campus involvement.
"Being selected for this meaningful award is a huge honor and allows me to reflect on the journey that I have embarked on while at UDC," commented Kouami. "UDC has opened many doors for me, but it was encouragement from people around me that gave me the confidence to walk through them."
Under her leadership, UDC student-athletes organized non-perishable food drives benefiting the university's student food pantry, coordinated clothing drives, and volunteered with Martha's Table in Washington, D.C., preparing and serving meals to individuals experiencing homelessness. She spearheaded fundraising efforts for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, organized International Day celebrations that highlighted the university's diverse student population, and developed Mental Health Awareness initiatives that educated and supported members of the campus community.
She also coordinated projects supporting the Ronald McDonald House, encouraging student-athletes to create cards and messages for children receiving medical treatment. This spring, she volunteered at the Hyrox Global Fitness Challenge at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, continuing her commitment to serving others beyond the university community.
Kouami's impact extends far beyond organized service projects. Affectionately known as "Emma," she is recognized across campus for her infectious enthusiasm, positivity, and genuine care for others. One of her most memorable initiatives was creating a senior recognition display in the lobby of the UDC Sports Complex. The display featured every graduating student-athlete and encouraged classmates, coaches, faculty, and staff to leave handwritten notes of encouragement and appreciation. The project became a powerful symbol of community and connection, reflecting her commitment to ensuring every student-athlete feels valued and celebrated.
Her dedication to athletics is equally inspiring. Kouami is an All-East Region hammer thrower who has consistently excelled at the ECC Championships. Despite the challenges of competing without an on-campus throwing facility, she has continually found ways to succeed. Alongside her teammates, she regularly traveled to a nearby high school facility to train and, during the winter months, transformed an unused racquetball court into a practice space. Her determination and resourcefulness have become defining characteristics of her athletic career.
The ability to balance academics, athletics, campus leadership, and community service has earned widespread recognition. In 2025, she was selected to the Winter NACDA Good Works Team, becoming the first student-athlete in UDC history to receive a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreement through the program. She was also elected Miss Senior by the student body, a reflection of the respect and admiration she has earned from her peers. Most recently, Kouami received the prestigious 2025-26 Reslyn Henley Memorial Award, presented annually to the senior student-athlete who exemplifies character, loyalty, leadership, and the ability to inspire others. Established in 1953, it remains the highest honor awarded by the UDC Department of Athletics.
Kouami added, "In November 2024, Mr. Jonathan Sprinkles taught me and other incredible student-athletes how to light our torch. Since then, I have found numerous ways to "light my torch," which has given me the ability to help light the torches of others. I am especially thankful to the people who trusted me with responsibilities, projects, and opportunities that challenged me, helped me grow, and contributed to my character development. To my coach, athletic director, Marlena, and my teammates: your warmth and unwavering support have helped shape me into the woman I am today, and for that I am deeply grateful."