“As we mark 100 years of educating and empowering students, we are celebrating the values that define our institution—confidence, courage, and hope,” Marcus-Newhall wrote. “Ms. Biles’ journey embodies all three.” The medal is awarded to passionate public figures that “brin[g] considerable positive attention to Scripps,” according to the college’s website. In their medal criteria, the college wrote that they seek out “dynamic, compassionate” women who are highly respected and demonstrate leadership in their field, for the award.
In her email, Marcus-Newhall cited Biles’s athletic prowess, national recognitions and advocacy work as ways she “inspires the next generation of women to lead with impact.” The medal ceremony will be held on May 1, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. on Elm Tree Lawn. According to Marcus-Newhall’s email, it will launch the college’s celebration of its 100-year anniversary. Nevenka Bollini SC ’27 competed in gymnastics all four years of high school. She said she was very excited when she saw the email announcement that Scripps was honoring Biles and inviting her to campus.
“I was over the moon,” she said. “I sent [it] to my parents immediately. I said, ‘You’ll never believe who’s coming to Scripps next year.’” Bollini said she was similarly in awe when Olympic gymnast — and former teammate of Biles — Aly Raisman spoke at a Scripps Presents event this October. “They say never meet your heroes, but, I mean, I was even more in awe when I met [Raisman] in real life,” she said. “The opportunity to see Simone Biles live and in person is just incredible.”
When Excellence Meets Recognition
When it comes to greatness, few names shine brighter than Simone Biles. The world-renowned gymnast, known for her unmatched dominance and gravity-defying routines, recently received a distinguished honor from Scripps College, a liberal arts women’s college in California. The college’s recognition of Biles goes beyond her Olympic achievements — it’s a celebration of resilience, empowerment, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Let’s dive into how this incredible moment came to life and why it has captured hearts around the globe.
The Powerhouse Behind the Honor — Who Is Simone Biles?
Before understanding the depth of this recognition, it’s crucial to revisit the remarkable journey of Simone Biles.
Born in Columbus, Ohio, and raised in Texas, Biles has rewritten the history books of gymnastics. With 37 Olympic and World Championship medals, she’s the most decorated gymnast in history. But beyond the medals, her story is one of perseverance, strength, and self-belief.
Scripps College — A Symbol of Empowered Women
Scripps College, one of the prestigious Claremont Colleges in California, is known for celebrating women who break boundaries. Founded in 1926, it has consistently supported leadership, creativity, and social awareness. Honoring Simone Biles fits perfectly with Scripps’ mission — recognizing women who embody courage and transformation.
The Honor That Made Headlines
In a powerful ceremony filled with inspiration and emotion, Scripps College conferred an honorary degree upon Simone Biles. The recognition celebrated her achievements not just as an athlete but as a global role model for mental health advocacy, perseverance, and empowerment.
As the audience cheered, Biles accepted the honor with humility, encouraging students to “believe in their worth, even when the world doubts them.”
Why Simone Biles Deserves This Recognition
Simone Biles is not just a gymnast — she’s a movement. Here’s why this honor feels so profoundly right:
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Breaking Barriers: Biles redefined what’s possible in gymnastics, introducing moves so complex they were named after her.
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Championing Mental Health: By choosing to prioritize her mental well-being during the Tokyo Olympics, she started a global conversation about athlete mental health.
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Empowering Women: Biles continues to inspire young women to take control of their narratives, embrace vulnerability, and define success on their own terms.
A Night of Inspiration — Inside the Ceremony
The event at Scripps College was nothing short of magical. Students, faculty, and guests filled the hall to honor Biles’ legacy. Speeches celebrated her courage and her journey from a foster child to the face of Olympic excellence.
Biles’ heartfelt speech moved everyone as she shared how education and empowerment can transform lives — even for those who take a nontraditional path like hers.
“You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Be Powerful” — Simone’s Message
During her acceptance speech, Biles reminded everyone that perfection is not the goal — progress is. She said,
“Perfection doesn’t exist. But power, passion, and purpose do — and that’s what keeps me going.”
Her words resonated deeply with students who often feel the weight of expectation.
The College’s Vision Behind the Award
Scripps College’s decision to honor Simone Biles wasn’t just about celebrating fame. It was about aligning with values — resilience, authenticity, and leadership.
Dr. Amy Marcus-Newhall, Scripps College’s President, stated that Biles represents the kind of strength and determination the college strives to instill in its students.
A Role Model Beyond the Gym
Biles’ influence reaches far beyond gymnastics mats and Olympic arenas. Her advocacy for:
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Mental Health Awareness
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Body Positivity
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Gender Equality
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Racial Justice
has made her one of the most respected public figures of this generation.
The Ripple Effect — Inspiring a New Generation
When a woman like Simone Biles receives an honor from an institution like Scripps, it sends a powerful message to young girls everywhere — that greatness is within reach.
Many students left the event feeling motivated to chase their passions fearlessly, regardless of the obstacles.
Education Meets Empowerment
Scripps College believes education is about more than academics — it’s about building confidence, curiosity, and courage. Honoring Biles exemplifies that belief, blending athletic excellence with intellectual empowerment.
Simone Biles’ Unshakable Legacy
Even after stepping back from some competitions, Biles continues to shape sports culture. She’s redefined what strength means — proving it’s not just physical, but emotional and mental too.
From inspiring athletes to influencing policies, her legacy continues to grow beyond the gym.
Recognition That Resonates Worldwide
News of Scripps College’s honor quickly went viral, sparking conversations across social media. Fans, athletes, and academics alike praised the college for celebrating a woman who exemplifies modern heroism.
Beyond the Medals — A Heart of Gold
Despite her massive success, Simone Biles remains grounded. She’s known for her humility, kindness, and dedication to helping others — particularly children in foster care, a cause close to her heart.
Scripps’ recognition celebrates not only her achievements but also her compassion.
What Makes This Moment So Special
What makes this recognition unique is its timing. In an era when mental health and authenticity are at the forefront, Scripps College honored Biles not just for winning but for being real. That authenticity has become her true superpower.
Lessons We Can All Learn from Simone Biles
From Scripps College’s tribute, we can draw valuable life lessons:
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Courage isn’t the absence of fear — it’s action despite it.
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Success doesn’t define you; your integrity does.
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It’s okay to pause, breathe, and protect your peace.
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True greatness inspires others to rise with you.
A Future Full of Possibilities
Simone Biles shows no signs of slowing down. Whether it’s through her continued competition, business ventures, or advocacy work, she’s proving that greatness evolves. And Scripps College’s honor is just one of many acknowledgments of her enduring influence.
Conclusion: A Union of Strength, Spirit, and Scholarship
Scripps College’s tribute to Simone Biles isn’t just a headline — it’s a moment that bridges sports and scholarship, discipline and compassion, fame and authenticity.
By honoring her, Scripps reaffirmed its commitment to uplifting voices that redefine excellence. And for Simone Biles, it’s another well-deserved milestone in a journey that continues to inspire millions worldwide.
