By Tennis Now | @Tennis_Now | Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Photo credit: Fred Mullane/Susan Mullane
Chrissie Evert has been honored as a true tennis Shining Star!
The Hall of Famer graced the stage at the Harlem Junior Tennis & Education Program Gala, where legends shone brightly. Joined by tennis icons Billie Jean King, HJTEP Executive Director Katrina Adams, and Patrick McEnroe, Evert was bestowed the Shining Star award at the prestigious 53rd annual event held at the Ziegfeld Theater in New York City.
Rennae Stubbs, a prior Shining Star Award recipient, and Milos Raonic were among the many ATP/WTA players present at this year’s gala, where over $1 million was raised to further HJTEP’s impactful initiatives.
Photo credit: Fred Mullane/Susan Mullane
Celebrating the Harlem Junior Tennis & Education Program (HJTEP), attendees included tennis stars, celebrity enthusiasts, philanthropists, and supporters, all recognizing the positive influence of tennis and education on young lives.
The evening not only honored Evert with the Shining Star Award but also celebrated Morgan Stanley with the HJTEP Corporate Award, spotlighting their unwavering support.
Photo credit: Fred Mullane/Susan Mullane
Since 1972, HJTEP has been a beacon of hope, nurturing young talent in high-risk urban neighborhoods through tennis, education, and a commitment to personal development. With an impressive 95% high school graduation rate and 80% of graduates pursuing college, HJTEP continues to open doors for youth aged 6-18, fostering wellness and academic success.
