COACH NATHANIEL (NAT) WASHINGTON
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS
The Bob Hayes Invitational Track and Field Meet, Inc. will induct its 2026 Hall of Fame Class at the Gala on March 19, 2026, at Potters House International Ministries. This award honors Coach Washington, founder of the meet, and recognizes those who have positively impacted young people and underserved communities. This year’s awardees are:
Coach Nathaniel (NAT) Washington, Sr.
Nathaniel Washington (March 3, 1926, Jacksonville, FL) was a WWII U.S. Navy veteran, educator, and legendary coach who dedicated more than 58 years to Duval County schools. After earning degrees from Florida Memorial College and New York University, he coached and mentored exceptional athletes, including Bob Hayes, who became a two-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the world’s fastest men. Recognizing Hayes’s historic achievements, Coach Washington helped establish the Bob Hayes Invitational Track & Field Meet in 1964, which grew into one of the nation’s most respected meets. Serving as athletic director, head coach, and track coordinator for multiple schools, his legacy continues through the meet, which celebrates its 62nd anniversary in 2026.
LaTresa Henderson
LaTresa Henderson has been a champion for the Battered Women’s Movement for close to three decades. Throughout her career, she has been a tireless advocate for battered women, abused men, and the children who witness domestic violence. Her leadership skills have earned the respect of supervisors, co-workers, and community leaders.
In addition to her advocacy work, LaTresa is deeply committed to education, prevention, and empowerment, helping individuals find safety, healing, and hope. She has worked collaboratively with community organizations to strengthen support systems and expand resources for survivors. Through her compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication, she continues to be a powerful voice for those who are often unheard.
Lolita Hill
Lolita Hill, Founder of L. Hill & Associates LLC, which provides consultation, education, outreach, field training, and referral services to local organizations, law enforcement, and community groups on substance use, HIV and AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, and hepatitis C.
In addition to her extensive professional accomplishments, Ms. Hill dedicated 33 years to the Episcopal School of Jacksonville as a basketball coach for varsity, junior varsity, and middle school teams.
Through her work, Ms. Hill has played a vital role in strengthening community awareness, prevention efforts, and access to critical health resources. She is widely respected for her ability to bridge gaps between systems and the communities they serve. Her career reflects a deep commitment to service, education, and mentorship, leaving a lasting impact on both public health initiatives and youth development.
Ulysses Owens Jr.
Ulysses Owens Jr. has established himself as a leader in his generation of jazz artists, admired for his sensitive, fiery, and complex playing, vivid display of textural nuance, and a gift for propelling a band with charisma and integrity. He is co-director and artistic director of his family’s non-profit organization, Don’t Miss A Beat, which began with the singular objective—helping suspended youth stay in school so they wouldn’t “miss a beat.” Today, the program
blends music, art, academic achievement, and civic engagement to enhance the lives of children, teens, and their parents in Jacksonville’s At-Hope neighborhoods.
In addition to his performance career, Owens is deeply committed to education, mentorship, and community transformation through the arts. His work bridges artistic excellence with social impact, using music as a tool for empowerment and personal growth. Through leadership on and off the stage, he continues to inspire the next generation of musicians and community leaders.
