Interview with Muhammad Ali Center CEO and President DeVone Holt: Carrying on the Legacy of The Champ Preserving Muhammad Ali’s Legacy at the Ali Center: A Conversation with Donald Lassere

DeVone Holt Takes on Dream Job as CEO and President of Muhammad Ali Center

In a recent interview with LPM’s Breya Jones, DeVone Holt opened up about his new role as the CEO and president of the Muhammad Ali Center, sharing his excitement and vision for the future.

Holt, a Louisville native, expressed his deep admiration for Muhammad Ali and his legacy, calling the opportunity to lead the cultural institution a dream job. He highlighted the importance of continuing to honor Ali’s legacy and inspire others to pursue greatness for themselves.

As the first Louisvillian to lead the Ali Center in its nearly 20-year history, Holt sees his intimate knowledge of the community as a privilege that will allow him to build stronger connections between the center and the local residents.

Reflecting on his past experiences at Goodwill Industries of Kentucky, Holt compared himself to “Black Forrest Gump,” emphasizing the unexpected opportunities that have shaped his career and network of connections. He credits these experiences with preparing him for the challenges and responsibilities of his new role.

Looking ahead, Holt envisions expanding the reach and impact of the Ali Center, taking its programming and services beyond Kentucky to a global audience. He has already received outreach from individuals around the world in his first week on the job, signaling a strong interest in the center’s mission and potential.

Ultimately, Holt’s goal is to successfully carry on Muhammad Ali’s legacy by helping people pursue greatness in their own unique ways. He sees the Ali Center as a platform for inspiring and uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds, echoing Ali’s message of peace, compassion, and empowerment.

With Holt at the helm, the Muhammad Ali Center is poised to embark on a new chapter of growth and outreach, bringing the spirit of The Champ to audiences far and wide. The Muhammad Ali Center continues to be a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for all who walk through its doors. With a mission to encourage greatness and boldness in individuals, the center serves as a reminder of the impact and influence that Ali had on the world.

In a recent interview, the center’s director expressed his desire to see the legacy of Ali continue to inspire others to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world. He emphasized the importance of remembering Ali’s contributions and the special gift he had in connecting with people on a personal level.

When asked about the rumor of Ali’s Olympic gold medal being at the bottom of the Ohio River, the director responded with trust in Ali’s words. He believes that if the champ said he threw the medal into the river, then it must be true.

As the Ali Center continues to honor the legacy of Muhammad Ali, it serves as a reminder of the greatness that can be achieved through perseverance, courage, and a commitment to making a difference. It is a place where individuals can be inspired to do big and bold things that have the power to change the world.