ANNIKA Foundation Names Emilia Doran the Recipient of the 2026 ANNIKA Inspiration Award Presented by Cleveland Brothers

October 06, 2026

ORLANDO, Fla. - The ANNIKA Foundation is proud to announce Emilia Doran as the second recipient of the ANNIKA Inspiration Award presented by Cleveland Brothers.

The ANNIKA Inspiration Award presented by Cleveland Brothers celebrates women whose impact reaches far beyond the game of golf. This honor recognizes those who use their influence, passion, and leadership to inspire others - women whose achievements, character, and commitment have made a lasting impact on those around them. Emilia Doran is proud to be named the second-ever recipient of this prestigious award.

"Emilia is an excellent example of how the lessons and opportunities we gain through the game of golf can shape not only who we become, but how we choose to make a difference in the lives of others," said Annika, founder of the ANNIKA Foundation. "Through her mentorship, advocacy for girls' golf, and commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation, she is making a meaningful difference both on and off the course. Emilia truly embodies the spirit of the ANNIKA Inspiration Award, and we are thrilled to honor her as its second recipient."

A four-time All-American at Wake Forest University, Emilia helped lead the Demon Deacons to the 2023 NCAA Women's Team Golf Championship while capturing multiple collegiate victories, including the 2019 ACC Individual Championship. Internationally, she earned two gold medals for Team USA at the 2019 Pan American Games, winning both the women's individual title and the mixed team competition.

Emilia represented the United States in multiple Curtis Cup and Arnold Palmer Cup competitions and finished runner-up at the prestigious Augusta National Women's Amateur in 2021. Throughout her amateur career, she consistently ranked among the top players in the Women's World Amateur Golf Ranking.

After years of elite competition, Emilia embraced a new chapter that brought together her passions for journalism, communications, mentorship, and community impact. Emilia expanded her role within the game of golf, transitioning into broadcasting and storytelling by building a successful career with Golf Channel, NBC Sports, SiriusXM, and PGA TOUR LIVE. Through her work in media and mentorship, she continues to share her knowledge, passion, and perspective with audiences while helping champion the sport and inspire the next generation of players.

"It is such an honor to be the second recipient of the ANNIKA Inspiration Award. Ever since I was a young golfer, Annika has been a huge role model to me. Not only through her golf accolades, but also through her clinics and tournaments I was a part of, Annika showed me the importance of giving her time and investing in the next generation of players. That lesson has stayed with me throughout my own career, and it's something I try to carry forward. To be recognized alongside her legacy means more than words can capture."

Supported by Cleveland Brothers, the award reflects a shared commitment to celebrating women who are breaking barriers, leading with compassion, and leaving an enduring impact on their communities and beyond.

"It is a privilege to support the ANNIKA Inspiration Award and remarkable women like Emilia," said Jay Cleveland, President and CEO of Cleveland Brothers. "Women who never stop pursuing their dreams, who dedicate themselves not only to mastering their craft, but to uplifting the people around them. Women who embody the values that guide Cleveland Brothers every day, focusing on excellence, acting with integrity, and committing to a life of learning, teaching, and empowering others. Emilia is exceptionally talented and truly deserving of this award. We look forward to seeing how the path she has forged continues to inspire others."

Outside of the broadcast booth, Emilia is an active advocate for the growth of girls' golf. Emilia is involved with the Peggy Kirk Bell Girls Golf Tour and a board member of Girls Golf of America, she supports the organization's mission of creating greater access and opportunities for young female golfers nationwide. Emilia also helped develop and lead the "Fore Her Success" mentorship program, which connects junior golfers with accomplished collegiate and professional players for guidance on recruiting, leadership, personal development, and career pathways.

Emilia serves on the young professional's board for the First Tee - Greater Charlotte. She helps with fundraising, community outreach, and events that use golf to teach young people confidence, perseverance, and life skills. Through her involvement, Emilia gives back to the Charlotte community while helping to create opportunities for the next generation.

To help empower the next generation, Emilia is using charitable proceeds from the ANNIKA Inspiration Award to support organizations that make a difference in the lives of young people. She is donating $5,000 to First Tee - Greater Charlotte and $5,000 to the Peggy Kirk Bell Girls Golf Tour. Emilia is also allocating $5,000 to Autumn's Eagles Charity Golf Tournament, hosted by young golfer Autumn Solesbee. The tournament raises funds to support children in foster care and adoption through its partnership with Children's Home Society of North Carolina, helping provide children with safe, loving, and permanent homes.

Emilia is also using $10,000 of her award funds to provide tournament stipends for players competing in the AJGA Girls Junior All-Stars Championship, covering entry fees and helping make the opportunity to compete more accessible to young golfers.

Through these efforts, Emilia has become a respected mentor dedicated to empowering the next generation of women in golf both on and off the course. Her efforts reflect the resilience, vision, and spirit of the ANNIKA Inspiration Award.

For more information on the ANNIKA Inspiration Award and the ANNIKA Foundation's mission to develop, empower, and advance young women around the world through golf and in life, visit annikafoundation.org

About the ANNIKA Foundation

Annika created the ANNIKA Foundation to develop, empower, and advance young women around the world through golf and in life. More specifically, the Foundation provides opportunities in women's golf at the grassroots, junior, collegiate and professional levels while teaching young people the importance of personal development, including living a healthy, active lifestyle through fitness and nutrition.

Additionally, the Foundation hosts "More Than Golf" sessions and activities throughout the year to educate and promote successful performance beyond the golf course, including topics such as mental health, physical fitness, financial literacy, public speaking, career development, and much more.

The Foundation uniquely supports girls through golf at every life stage - led by the greatest female golfer of all-time.

About Cleveland Brothers

For nearly 80 years, Cleveland Brothers Equipment Co., Inc. has proudly served as the exclusive Cat® dealer for western, central, and northeastern Pennsylvania, northern West Virginia, and western Maryland. Since 1948, we've built a legacy as a trusted partner in the construction, mining, forestry, and agricultural sectors.

From our 30 locations, we deliver comprehensive solutions, including high-quality new, used, and rental equipment, genuine parts, and expert service.

Beyond our extensive machinery offerings, we provide diverse solutions, such as industrial engines and generators all supported by our knowledgeable team of professionals.

At Cleveland Brothers, we're more than a dealer; we're your dedicated partner committed to helping you achieve your goals. Discover how we can support your operations at www.ClevelandBrothers.com