News Article

Nominations Now Open

Four smiling people wearing hats and lanyards sit in and on a red convertible. The car is parked on a city street in front of a bank building.

AKRON, Ohio (February 27, 2025)—Nominations are now open for the International Soap Box Derby’s Hall of Fame Class of 2025 and the President’s Youth Volunteer Service Awards. The deadline to nominate is Fri., March 28.

“We look forward to this year’s election of the top individuals who have made significant service or financial contributions to the International Soap Box Derby (ISBD). In addition, the youth awards allow us to recognize the great efforts of our current and former competitors in their home communities and in Akron at the world championships,” said Scott Taylor, president and chief executive officer.

To be considered for the Hall of Fame, candidates must have a minimum of 20 years’ volunteer service at the local or national level or have made a significant financial or sponsorship contribution to the program.  Former racers of at least 10 years ago or Derby staff members with a minimum of 10 years’ service also can be nominated.

Candidates for the Youth Volunteer Service Award must be under the age of 21 and have made a significant impact as a volunteer or mentor to other young racers.

Complete details of award criteria and submission requirements for the Hall of Fame and President’s Youth Volunteer Service Awards are available on the International Soap Box Derby’s website.

Hall of Fame Nomination 

Youth Volunteer Service Awards Nomination

Nominations are due by Friday, March 28, and awards will be presented during ceremonies following the 87th FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby in Akron on Saturday, July 19.

Meet the 2024 President Youth Service Award Recipients

Meet the 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL SOAP BOX DERBY

The International Soap Box Derby® is a non-profit youth education and leadership development organization whose mission is to build knowledge and character, and to create meaningful experiences through fair and honest racing competitions, STEM curriculums, and other community-focused activities. The Derby’s Core Values and Drivers include: Education, Community, and Sportsmanship. The Derby’s two youth initiatives are the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby racing program and the STEM-based Education Program, which provides educational opportunities for K-12 youth worldwide through Soap Box Derby racing. The Derby dates back to 1934, when the first All-American race was held in Dayton, Ohio. Visit the website, www.soapboxderby.org for more information.

For more information, contact: 
Bob Troyer
Public Relations Chair
bob@soapboxderby.org
(312) 543-6703

 

More News

Ukrainian-born Omaha Champ raises $100K for home country

Ukrainian-born Dasha Driscoll of Omaha, 14, combines her passion for Soap Box Derby racing with her desire to give back to her home country. As of March 10, she has raised nearly $100,000 for the country where she and her younger brother were born. Watch story here:...

read more

STEM Gravity Racing Season Underway in Akron

15th Annual Gravity Racing Challenge STEM Team Competition - Over 60 Teams Currently Registered STEM Gravity Racing in Akron is underway! And it's not too late for your school or group to join in the fun! Across northeast Ohio, schools, after-school programs, and...

read more

Chip In Fore Charity Makes Your Gift Go Further

Akron, Ohio (March 18, 2025) - The International Soap Box Derby is excited to be a part of the Kaulig Companies Chip In Fore Charity program presented by Fastenal. Any and all donations given to the ISBD, now through June 22 through the program, will receive an extra...

read more