Kim Pegula Honored with Statue in Her Hometown: A Lasting Symbol of Vision and Leadership
In a heartfelt and historic ceremony, Kim Pegula — co-owner and president of the Buffalo Bills — was honored with a life-sized bronze statue in her hometown of Fairport, New York. The unveiling drew crowds of supporters, sports executives, community leaders, and local residents who came to pay tribute to a woman who has not only broken barriers in the world of sports ownership but has also served as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and progress.
The statue, placed at the heart of Fairport’s public square, celebrates Pegula’s remarkable journey from Korean-born adoptee to one of the most powerful and influential figures in American sports.
A Trailblazing Force in Sports
Kim Pegula’s influence within the sports world is nothing short of groundbreaking. As co-owner, alongside her husband Terry Pegula, of the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres, and other Western New York sports entities, she has helped transform the region’s sporting landscape with bold decisions and visionary leadership.
In 2014, the Pegulas secured the ownership of the Bills, keeping the beloved franchise in Buffalo amid fears of relocation. Kim Pegula then became the first woman to serve as president of both an NFL and NHL team, shattering long-standing glass ceilings in two traditionally male-dominated leagues.
“Kim Pegula is a pioneer,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement read during the ceremony. “Her leadership has redefined what’s possible in our league, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”
The Statue: A Symbol of Community and Strength
The bronze statue, sculpted by renowned artist Meredith Bergmann, captures Pegula in a poised and commanding stance, wearing a tailored blazer and Bills lapel pin — a nod to her business acumen and team pride. The base of the statue is engraved with the words: “Vision. Strength. Impact.”
Fairport’s mayor, Julie Domaratz, addressed the crowd during the event: “This statue is not just a tribute to Kim Pegula the sports executive. It’s a tribute to Kim Pegula the daughter, the leader, the survivor, and the symbol of what can be achieved through grit, grace, and determination.”
The ceremony included performances by the Bills’ drumline and local student musicians, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Executives from the Bills, Sabres, and the NFL Players Association were also in attendance, reflecting the wide-reaching impact of Pegula’s leadership.
A Personal Journey of Triumph
Pegula’s story is both inspiring and unique. Born in South Korea and adopted by an American family, she grew up in Fairport, New York — a quiet suburb east of Rochester. Her journey from a small-town upbringing to the top of the sports world speaks to her determination and tenacity.
She has not only led two major franchises through complex transitions and challenges but has also been a passionate advocate for women in sports, diversity in leadership, and community engagement.
“Kim is a role model,” said Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane. “She leads with compassion, insight, and courage. This statue is a well-earned honor for someone who always puts others first — her family, her team, and her community.”
A Tribute in the Wake of Health Challenges
The statue unveiling also comes in the wake of Pegula’s widely publicized health struggles. In June 2022, she suffered a serious cardiac event that sidelined her from day-to-day operations. While her recovery continues privately, the community has rallied around her, offering unwavering support and respect.
Her daughter, tennis star Jessica Pegula, spoke emotionally during the ceremony: “This statue is about more than accomplishments. It’s about legacy. My mom has always been a fighter — strong, fearless, and quietly powerful. She’s changed lives and lifted this entire region, and I’m proud the world can now see her recognized in this way.”
Looking Forward
As the Pegula Sports and Entertainment empire continues to shape the future of Buffalo and Western New York, the statue in Fairport stands as a powerful reminder of Kim Pegula’s enduring legacy. It is a monument to leadership that transcends sport — rooted in values of integrity, vision, and perseverance.
For young girls in Fairport and across the country, the image of Pegula cast in bronze offers a tangible example of what’s possible. For the sports world, it is a celebration of a transformative figure who continues to blaze trails. And for her hometown, it is a moment of shared pride — honoring one of their own who dared to dream big and deliver bigger.
As the sun set behind the statue, casting long shadows across the square, one thing was clear: Kim Pegula’s impact is lasting, and her story is far from finished.
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