The Okaloosa Commission on the Status of Women is honored to present the Home Town Heroine Award to Mia Manganello, an Okaloosa County native and 2026 Olympic bronze medalist in women’s speed skating. Mia was the only woman to win a medal in long track speed skating for the US in Milano, and the first American, male or female, to ever win a medal in the Mass Start. She also won bronze medal in 2018 in South Korea.

Mia’s remarkable journey from Okaloosa County to the Olympic podium is a powerful testament to perseverance, discipline, resilience, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. Through years of dedication, sacrifice, and relentless determination, she transformed childhood dreams into Olympic achievement, proudly representing both the United States and the community that helped shape her.

Beyond her accomplishments on the ice, Mia serves as an inspiration to countless young people throughout Okaloosa County. She demonstrates that extraordinary success can begin in a hometown just like ours and that hard work, courage, and commitment can carry a person to the highest levels of competition.

Today, we celebrate not only an exceptional athlete but also a proud ambassador for our community. Mia Manganello exemplifies the spirit of excellence, humility, and perseverance, making her a role model for generations to come.

It is with immense pride that the Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women recognizes Mia Manganello as Home Town Heroine in recognition of her extraordinary Olympic achievement, her dedication to her sport, and the honor she has brought to Okaloosa County.