The Immies 2026The winners have been announced — meet the inaugural award recipients. View the winners

The Immies 2026 · The Build Fellowship

Amy Maldonado

Nominated for:Power Partnership
1nomination

Nominated for

Why Amy Maldonado deserves it

Nominated for

The Power Partnership Award for Exceptional Collaboration in Immigration Law

Presented to a duo of two individuals whose partnership in immigration law produced something greater together than either could alone.

Ksenia Maiorova and Amy Maldonado have emerged as a powerful and pioneering team at the intersection of NIL and immigration law, leading national efforts to expand opportunities for international student-athletes navigating the rapidly evolving NIL landscape. Together, they co-authored a groundbreaking book addressing NIL and immigration issues, drafted influential white papers,0 proposed legislation, and spearheaded advocacy initiatives designed to protect and empower international collegiate athletes. Their collaborative work has helped shape critical conversations surrounding equity, access, and lawful participation in NIL opportunities for non-U.S. athletes. In addition to their thought leadership and advocacy, Ksenia and Amy have been at the forefront of strategic litigation and legal innovation in this space, including their involvement in the Last Tear POA case. Through their efforts, they have helped advance the use and understanding of O, P, and EB-1 visa pathways for international collegiate athletes seeking to engage in NIL activities. Their partnership has not only elevated awareness of these complex legal issues but has also created meaningful pathways and precedent for athletes, universities, and practitioners nationwide.

Nominated by Bridgette Bennett

People's Choice · Voting closed

Amy Maldonado for People’s Choice

People's Choice voting has ended. The winner will be announced at the AILA National Conference in San Diego on June 17.

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People's Choice voting has ended. The winner will be announced at the AILA National Conference in San Diego on June 17.

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