Marshall Goldsmith Receives the 2026 JA Legacy of Leadership Award
May 11, 2026
JA Worldwide honored Marshall Goldsmith with the 2026 JA Legacy of Leadership Award, recognizing his enduring commitment to leadership development, mentorship, and empowering future generations of leaders.
The award presentation took place at Catalyst New York 2026, where supporters, alumni, philanthropists, and business leaders gathered to discuss mentorship, purpose, and expanding opportunities for young people. Earlier that evening, Marshall moderated a fireside chat with JA alumni Maiya Adolphus and Margaret Ennin, exploring how young people define achievement in a rapidly changing world. (Watch the fireside chat recording.)
JA Worldwide presents the JA Legacy of Leadership Award annually. JA’s highest honor for supporters, this award celebrates individuals whose leadership, generosity, and long-term commitment have strengthened the organization’s global impact and advanced our mission to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy. Marshall joins past honorees Patricia L. Francy, William Schawbel, Dr. Walter Loewenstern, and David Meltzer.
JA Worldwide CEO Asheesh Advani reflected on Marshall’s unique ability to bring out the best in others, describing him as someone who “brings out the leader in all of us.”
Asheesh shared personal stories that illustrated Marshall’s influence on individuals and the broader JA network. He discussed their collaboration on the book Modern Achievement, which reimagines success for a generation navigating increasingly non-linear career paths shaped by rapid technological and societal change. The project grew out of a conversation in New York shortly after the pandemic, when Marshall challenged those around him to think differently about achievement, leadership, and purpose.
Throughout the evening, Asheesh emphasized how Marshall helps people move beyond self-doubt and mental barriers. He recalled Marshall’s encouragement early in his tenure at JA Worldwide, which inspired him to advocate more confidently for the organization’s mission and publicly share its impact.
Marshall’s message was simple: “If you truly believe in helping young people, you have a responsibility to champion that work openly and encourage others to support it.”
That philosophy has resonated throughout the JA network.
Asheesh reflected on Marshall’s commitment to generosity and teaching, values that emerged through an exercise Marshall often shares, focused on identifying personal heroes and defining purpose. Asheesh explained that Marshall’s influence extends far beyond executive coaching or leadership development. Marshall’s work consistently centers on helping people grow, lead with humility, and create positive impact for others.
For decades, Marshall has coached some of the world’s most accomplished executives and dedicated his time to mentoring students, nonprofit leaders, and emerging changemakers. Through his writing, speaking, and volunteer leadership, he has helped redefine success as something rooted not only in achievement but also in contribution and service.
By 2026, Marshall’s books had sold more than four million copies and appeared in 36 languages. His bestselling titles include What Got You Here Won’t Get You There, MOJO, Triggers, and The Earned Life. He has written or edited more than 60 books and is a member of the Thinkers50 Hall of Fame.
Yet throughout the evening, the focus shifted from accolades to the lasting influence leadership can have when grounded in generosity, mentorship, and belief in others.
When accepting the award, Marshall turned the spotlight back to the JA community, recognizing the organization’s work to equip young people with the confidence, adaptability, and human-centered leadership skills needed for the future.
The evening reminded everyone that leadership is not only about personal success. True leadership creates opportunities for others, invests in future generations, and helps young people recognize their own potential.
That spirit continues to shape JA Worldwide’s mission and measurable impact, preparing youth for employment and entrepreneurship and helping young people develop the mindset and skills to build thriving communities.
To make a donation in Marshall’s honor, visit jaww.org/catalyst-2026.