The 2026 Denim & Diamonds Spotlight Recap
A Memorable Evening of Inspiration and Impact
On April 25, 2026, the LHAAMC Foundation hosted the inaugural Denim & Diamonds Spotlight, an intimate and unforgettable evening featuring legendary swimmer Katie Ledecky, 14-time Olympic Medalist and 23-time World Championship Gold Medalist, in conversation with Emmy-award winning journalist, Frank Sesno. Together, they reflected on Katie’s record-breaking journey, including her remarkable world records, and explored the role perseverance, purpose, and mental health resources play at the highest levels of competition and within our own community.
With nearly 200 guests gathered in support of pediatric mental health, the 2026 Denim & Diamonds Spotlight raised $122,000 through the evening’s paddle raise and an additional $758,000 in sponsorship support.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our generous sponsors and supporters for their early commitment to Denim & Diamonds. Together, we have made a meaningful and lasting impact on children and families in our community who need access to pediatric mental health services close to home.
Featured Speakers
Katie Ledecky
Katie Ledecky is the most decorated U.S. female Olympian in history and one of the most accomplished swimmers of all time. A 14-time Olympic Medalist, including nine gold medals, and a 21-time World Championship Gold Medalist, she has set numerous world and American records throughout her career.
In 2024, Katie became the first woman in Olympic history to win the same individual event at four consecutive Olympic Games. Her achievements in international competition, collegiate athletics at Stanford University, and global leadership in sport have earned her widespread recognition, including multiple Female Athlete of the Year honors and a New York Times bestselling memoir, Just Add Water.
Beyond competition, Katie is deeply committed to advancing education initiatives, particularly in STEM and leadership development for girls.
Frank Sesno
Frank Sesno is a professor at the School of Media and Public Affairs and Executive Director of the George Washington University Alliance for a Sustainable Future, a university-wide initiative focused on climate change, environmental justice, and sustainability.
An Emmy Award–winning journalist, Sesno spent more than two decades at CNN as a White House correspondent, anchor, Washington Bureau Chief, and special correspondent, covering presidential campaigns, global conflicts, and major historical events including the September 11 attacks and the inauguration of Barack Obama.
He has produced and hosted numerous documentaries for CNN, PBS, and The History Channel, and is the founder of Planet Forward, a platform for student reporting on climate and sustainability. He also hosts public broadcasting programs on the health of the Chesapeake Bay and community resilience.
Sesno is the author of "Ask More: The Power of Questions to Open Doors, Uncover Solutions, and Spark Change", sharing his expertise and love of interviewing through his course The Art of the Interview. He has interviewed five U.S. presidents and numerous global leaders, and continues to convene conversations on democracy, media, and civil discourse.
The Night Shines Brighter With You
There are so many meaningful ways to be part of the Denim & Diamonds Bash. Whether by attending the event, joining us as a sponsor or committee member, making a donation, or simply helping spread the word about this important cause, every act of support makes an impact.
From all of us at LHAAMC and the LHAAMC Foundation Board of Directors, thank you for your generosity, your care, and your commitment to brighter, healthier futures for all.
