Following a journey that began more than three decades ago – long before she joined Fiesta Sports Foundation's Ambassadors group in 2022, Tammy White was named the recipient of the 2024-25 Randi Knappenberger Ambassador of the Year Award. This recognition is reserved for an Ambassador whose heart, service and spirit echo the values of the Foundation's well-respected hospitality standards.

White's roots run deep in the Valley's traditions, with memories tracing back to a now-retired duck race and colorful balloon arches at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner and Rowe.

"I began to volunteer before my son was born, so it might be 35 years," White said. "I wanted to give back to the community, and I really liked the parade."

Despite being honored with the highest distinction an Ambassador can receive, White remains modest about her contributions.

"It's very humbling," White said. "I don't do things for recognition. It's something that I enjoy. I guess it validates that what I do is important and that it does make an impact."

When asked what keeps her coming back, her answer was simple.

"I keep coming back because of the smiles on people's faces," Smith said. "Whether it's kids, adults, fellow Ambassadors, or even staff – it means what we are doing at the moment is what needs to be done, and is impacting somebody in a good way."

That love for smiles and community evolved into leadership. From parade decorations to coordinating events, White says her superpower has always been hospitality.

"It's just something I've always done in any organization that I've been involved in, whether it be as a band parent or as a PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)," White said. "Whatever event it is, I get involved, I plan and I host."

Her formal introduction to the Ambassadors came a little over three years ago, but White says she had always admired the work done by those who don the signature red jacket. She was able to connect her pre-existing strengths to her role as an Ambassador within the function of the Fiesta Sports Foundation.

"We are hosts, we are gracious, we plan events, and we help the staff fulfill their plans," White explained. "It just seemed like a natural fit. This is what I do all the time, so why not meet new people in the process?"

White did not just attend events, she helped connect the group. In 2024-25, she served as the lead for community outreach, creating year-round opportunities for Ambassadors to stay active beyond football season.

"The goal was to keep the Ambassadors engaged all year – not just in the fall when it's Bowl Season," White explained. "I would plan the events, whether it was a get-together for lunch or a volunteer activity."

From packing meals at Feed My Starving Children, walking for Alzheimer's awareness or cooking at the Ronald McDonald House, White was the heartbeat behind monthly outings.

"They would see an email from me at least once a month," White said. "The goal was to give them opportunities to be around the Valley, and to keep our name out there and show people that we're more than a football game."

Whether it was bowling or sorting holiday donations, White made sure the Fiesta Sports Foundation Ambassadors showed up with joy and purpose. As an Ambassador, White is right where her strengths lie – giving back, bringing people together, and doing it all with grace, generosity and a whole lot of heart.