Hosting the 21st Johnnie L. Cochran Salute to Excellence Event
Reception and Awards Event on February 5, 2026, in San Francisco
The FPA is Celebrating Excellence
The Fritz Pollard Alliance Foundation will host it’s Super Bowl Week 21st Johnnie L. Cochran Salute to Excellence Reception and Awards Event on February 5, 2026, in San Francisco. As the Alliance’s flagship and signature event, the afternoon convenes NFL ownership, senior league executives, and the Alliance’s esteemed Board of Directors to affirm its core mission: establishing a level playing field so that all candidates are afforded fair and equal opportunity throughout the NFL hiring cycle. The program opens with an exclusive welcome reception designed for meaningful connection among leaders shaping the future of the National Football League, while acknowledging longtime title sponsor Nike and welcoming UBS for another impactful year of partnership.
Guests will then transition into a theatre-style seated awards ceremony honoring leadership and action that advance fair and inclusive hiring at every level of the league. Attendees will include Roger Goodell, NFL owners, and senior executives, as the program recognizes the San Francisco 49ers for their demonstrated commitment to accountability and progress across NFL operations. Through this signature event and its year-round advocacy, the Fritz Pollard Alliance Foundation continues its work to move the league forward and strengthen equitable pathways throughout professional football.


