Arizona Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill hit a major off-field milestone on November 8. The team’s “Civics Matters Arizona” initiative won the 2025 Governors’ Award, the highest honor from the Rocky Mountain Emmys. The award recognized the Cardinals’ strong impact on the community and excellence in storytelling.

Michael Bidwill, who boasts a net worth of $1.4 billion, accepted the award on behalf of the team. Known as one of the most hands-on owners in the NFL, he’s been just as committed to community programs. A few weeks ago, he announced plans for a new Cardinals facility. Yet it’s his off-field project, “Civics Matters Arizona,” that’s making headlines for all the right reasons. 

Before the award ceremony, Michael Bidwill spoke from the red carpet at the Rocky Mountain Emmys, reflecting on the initiative’s impact. The program selects students from 275 Arizona high schools for a free, three-night trip to Washington, D.C. Imagine being a high schooler flying for the first time – that’s exactly what many of these kids experience.

“We know for a lot of these kids it’s the first time they’ve flown on an aeroplane because we are primarily focused on Title I schools,” said Michael Bidwill. “Probably the funniest moment is the time they hit turbulence, when you hear all the kids go ‘Waaaa’, and start screaming. Watching those kids get off the plane and then the buses, seeing how green Washington, D.C. is.” 

As Michael Bidwill described it, the excitement within the students was palpable as they did not just win a trip – they earned it. Each participant in the Civics Matter program showed strong civic engagement and academic excellence. During the trip, they explored national monuments, visited museums, and engaged in discussions about government, law, and leadership.

So, it wasn’t just sightseeing – it was a crash course in democracy. 

Michael Bidwill summed it up perfectly: 

“They had a shared experience. It was something really important, and that’s what we want. And we want to inspire them to put their new education to work with the future of Arizona, the future of the United States.”

Apart from Bidwill, there were also other recipients of the award.

Staff writer Zach Gershman, lead producer Jianyu Yang, and the Cardinals’ creative and brand teams were also recognized for their powerful storytelling. Their short film “Arizona Cardinals Fourth Annual Civics Matters Trip,” in particular, was inspiring. But what’s so special about this initiative? 

Michael Bidwill’s initiative aims to inspire young Arizonans

Launched in 2022, the “Civics Matters Arizona” initiative is a collaboration between the Cardinals, Greater Phoenix Leadership, the Governor of Arizona, and the nonprofit Close Up. Together, they run an essay contest across hundreds of schools, inviting students to write about how they can make a difference in their communities.

The prize? Winners get to board the Cardinals’ team plane and take part in this life-changing trip!

As Michael Bidwill put it: 

“Our country depends on young people who are informed, engaged, and ready to lead. The Civics Matters program is our way of investing in that future.”

What better way to teach democracy than to experience it firsthand? These high school students meet members of Congress, participate in debates, and even simulate real-world policymaking. Along the way, they connect with peers from different parts of the state – all while earning credit toward Arizona’s Seal of Civics Literacy.

Moreover, it’s rare to see an NFL owner so deeply involved in shaping the next generation of leaders. Michael Bidwill’s initiative proves that leadership doesn’t stop at the sidelines. At the end of the day, Bidwill isn’t just building a stronger team – he’s helping build a stronger future for America.