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

DENNIS VANFOSSEN JR. NAMED CEO OF SOAP BOX DERBY ORGANIZATION

AKRON, Ohio (November 11, 2025) – The board of directors of International Soap Box Derby, Inc.  (the “Soap Box Derby”) has appointed Dennis VanFossen Jr. as its chief executive officer effective immediately. He has been serving as interim executive director since...

read more

A-Team and Racing Commission Application

The Soap Box Derby Racing Commission is looking for NEW members for the 2025-2026 racing season. Both the A-Team and Racing Commission are vital parts of Derby Nation. They not only ensure the integrity of racing in the Soap Box Derby community, but also help maintain...

read more