Celebrity Ambassadors
Roma Downey
Actress Roma Downey touched the lives of families across America in her portrayal of angel Monica on CBS-TV’s "Touched By An Angel." Today, she continues her role as a real-life angel by touching children’s lives through her work as a spokesperson and Board of Governors member for Operation Smile.
In 2003, she traveled to Vietnam to take part in an Operation Smile International mission, where she met and fell in love with 2-year old Son, born with a cleft lip. After helping the child through surgery, Downey was touched by the child’s bravery. In February 2006, Downey traveled with Operation Smile to Honduras and met Madelein before she received surgery to repair her cleft lip.
At Operation Smile’s Los Angeles fundraising gala in September 2006, Downey was reunited with Madelein and the little girl received cleft palate surgery later that week. In March 2008, Downey traveled with her husband Mark Burnett and their three children to Amman, Jordan, to attend an Operation Smile medical mission as well as the opening ceremony of the Roma Downey Life Support Training Center.
The Training Center will provide local medical professionals with Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Basic Life Support (BLS) training in accordance with Operation Smile’s International Training Organization accreditation with the American Heart Association. Downey donated life support program equipment and books, as well as funds needed to support training programs for one year.
Read about Roma's visit to Vietnam
Jessica Simpson
Since 2003, Jessica Simpson has served as Operation Smile’s International Youth Ambassador. In this role, she has helped spread awareness for the organization, performed at Operation Smile events, visited Capitol Hill to speak on behalf of the organization, and has participated on an international mission to Nakuru, Kenya.
Alongside an Operation Smile international medical mission team in Nakuru, Simpson witnessed the medical volunteers’ skills firsthand by donning scrubs and joining Operation Smile Co-founder, Dr. Bill Magee and the surgical team in the operating room.
Simpson also formed a special bond with one child, 1 ½ -year-old Boke whose father had sold one of his six cows, his only source of income, for money to travel 12 hours in the hopes of receiving surgery for his little girl. Simpson saw Boke through her evaluation and surgery – she comforted Boke as she was put under anesthesia, and then delivered her back to her father after her recovery.
Read about Jessica's trip to Kenya
Billy Bush
Named as one of Esquire magazine’s “10 Men,” Billy Bush is the co-anchor of Access Hollywood, the daily entertainment newsmagazine now in its tenth season of providing the most comprehensive coverage of entertainment news and personalities on television.
In addition to his on-air duties at Access Hollywood, Bush also serves as a contributor for NBC’s top-rated morning news program the "Today Show." Beyond covering the red carpet for the Oscars, Golden Globes, Emmys and Grammys, he also hosted ABC’s live pre-show for the 2004 and 2005 Academy Awards. In addition, Bush served as one of NBC’s host for the 2004 Summer Olympics in Greece.
Bush resides in Los Angeles with his wife, Sydney, and three daughters. He recently joined Operation Smile on its International Board of Governors, helping continue changing the lives of children worldwide.
Satcha Pretto
Satcha Pretto co-hosts Univision Network’s weekend newsmagazine “Primer Impacto: Fin de Semana.” A native of Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Satcha serves as a Smile Ambassador for Operation Smile and participated on the Operation Smile international medical mission to Guadalajara, Mexico, in September 2008.
“Never before, had I any doubts about the great work Operation Smile carries out, but it had never been as clear to me as it is now, having experienced their labor of love with my own eyes during the September mission in Guadalajara, Mexico,” said Pretto.
“I am in complete admiration for the dedication put forth by the medical and non-medical volunteers, who go in, body and soul, to support parents in desperate search for a ray of hope for their children. As a Smile Ambassador for the organization, I had the fortune of learning from those parents who find the strength to fight for their children, and my heart is filled knowing that in some way I was able to form part of the process that will change the lives of their little angels.”
In recognition for her work in broadcast journalism, she has received an Emmy nomination, a Texas Intercollegiate Press Association award, a Texas Associated Press Broadcasters award, and has been recognized by the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. She is also a recipient of “Vanidades” magazine’s “Tribute to Hispanic Women” award and most recently, was awarded the Livingston Award for journalists under 35, for her work in investigative reporting.
Roselyn Sánchez
Puerto Rican-born actress Roselyn Sánchez is known for her work in the popular TV show "Without a Trace" and her recent Disney film with The Rock, "The Game Plan." She also starred opposite Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan in the blockbuster "Rush Hour 2" and her performance earned her an ALMA Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The American Latino Media Arts Award, or ALMA Award, is an important distinction awarded to Hispanic performers who promote positive portrayals of Latinos in the entertainment industry.
During Operation Smile's World Journey of Smiles, Sanchez, along with her husband Eric Winter, participated on a mission to Managua, Nicaragua. “Being a part of Operation Smile during their World Journey of Smiles medical mission to Managua, Nicaragua, was a surreal experience. To be able to see all those children and their families with their faces filled with hope for a better future was incredible. We learned a lot, helped and understood the value of a smile and the real meaning of a helping hand,” said Sánchez.
Her other work includes: starring opposite Cuba Gooding Jr. in the romantic comedy "Boat Trip;" starring opposite John Travolta, Sam Jackson and Giovanni Ribisi in "Basic" and the Forest Whitaker produced film "Chasing Papi." She began her career in Puerto Rico, where she gained public attention as a dancer and co-host of the variety show "Que Vacilón."
Eric Winter
Actor Eric Winter is best-known for his recent work on the popular T.V. show "Brothers & Sisters," as well as his work on "CSI," "Charmed," "Wildfire," "Viva Laughlin" and the soap opera "Days of Our Lives."
Along with his wife Roselyn Sanchez, Winter participated in a mission to Managua, Nicaragua, during the World Journey of Smiles. On the mission, they helped the screening team process about 250 children and assisted in preparing the children emotionally and physically for their life-changing surgeries.
Oscar D'León
Oscar D’León, an internationally recognized Venezuelan Salsa singer, was the first Latin American celebrity to join Operation Smile’s 25th Anniversary Smile Ambassadors. During the 1980s, D'León achieved success in salsa music, and is now one of the great singers of Caribbean music.
The singer announced his decision to become a Smile Ambassador during the “Let’s Smile with Oscar D’León” fundraising concert in Venezuela, which raised $30,000 for Operation Smile Venezuela. D’León said, “I have so much passion for this organization and the children who need help. As an artist, I will continue doing everything possible to raise awareness about this important cause in order to bring these children a smile to their face and a chance at a better and healthier life.”
Molly Sims
In addition to participating on an Operation Smile medical mission to Lima, Peru, in 2007, actress and model Molly Sims, best known for her role on the popular TV show "Las Vegas," co-hosted Operation Smile’s The Smile Collection fundraising gala in New York.
Of her experience in Peru, Sims said, “These kinds of experiences in life are not easily come by. We thank Operation Smile for enriching our lives and showing us a new frontier. Operation Smile volunteers are wonderful, beautiful people who change children’s lives. This experience with Operation Smile in Peru touched our hearts and made us realize how truly lucky we are, and how lucky these people are to have Operation Smile in their lives."
Justin Chatwin
Canadian-born actor Justin Chatwin, best-known for his roles in the Steven Spielberg film "War of the Worlds" and the 2007 film "The Invisible," joined a mission in Peru. While in Peru, the Smile Ambassadors participated in all team activities, played with waiting children, took patient photos and assisted with medical records.
“Operation Smile brings so much more than new smiles to children. For me it was the most thrilling, organized, and life enriching charity experience I've had,” he said.
Benj Gershman
Musician Benj Gershman, the bassist for the popular American rock band O.A.R., accompanied a mission to Peru and said of his experience, “It is amazing what people will do for others when motivated by the right reasons. I’m grateful for the opportunity to support Operation Smile during its 25th Anniversary, as the organization enters into a new era in changing children’s lives.”
Carmit Bachar
Carmit Bachar, is an American singer and dancer, best known as a former member of the pop group The Pussycat Dolls. In addition to serving as a Smile Ambassador, Bachar, who was born with a cleft lip and cleft palate, participated on a mission to Bolivia during Operation Smile's World Journey of Smiles.
“No child should have to endure growing up with a correctable facial deformity," she said. “I know firsthand the impact this has on a child’s life and I am honored to join the effort to not only help bring surgery to those in need, but also to help reduce the stigma and shame associated with this condition, particularly in developing countries. The work that Operation Smile and its Co-founders, the Magee's, are doing to help children around the world is an inspiration and I am proud to be a part of it.”
Mark Burnett
Mark Burnett, known for pioneering reality television, joined his wife Roma Downey in February of 2006 on an Operation Smile medical mission in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, and in 2008 in Amman, Jordan. He continues his support as a Smile Ambassador.
Donald Trump Jr. & Vanessa Trump
Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump, honored with the Wallis Annenberg Public Service Award at the Operation Smile Los Angeles Gala in 2006, participated on an Operation Smile medical mission to Nicaragua in 2008.
Vanessa Trump, actress and Wilhelmina model, has worked to bring national awareness to the children of Operation Smile for over four years.
Donald Trump Jr. is Executive Vice President of Development & Acquisitions for The Trump Organization and is a regular on his father’s hit show "The Apprentice." Trump Jr. was a founding member of the Operation Smile Executive Committee in Manhattan and has been actively involved in helping with event strategy and development since 2002.
Maggie Rizer
Maggie Rizer is currently one of fashion's hottest models. Rizer is a model who shot straight to the top of her profession; her first job was shooting a story with photographer Steven Meisel for Italian Vogue. In addition to appearing in ad campaigns for Calvin Klein, Max Mara and Versace, Rizer has walked the catwalk for Victoria's Secret.
Though Rizer is enjoying a successful career as a supermodel, she lacks the attitude of the supermodels who came before her in the early 90s. What is important to her is behaving professionally, and being treated with respect. "I'm more professional now that I've been working awhile, I feel that I know what I'm doing."
Rizer is currently in production of a documentary called “Maggie and Me” which looks to explore the importance of youth initiated, cross cultural and global partnership in the fight against AIDS. The documentary is directed by Alexandra Kerry, daughter of Senator John Kerry, and produced by and co-featuring daughter of African diplomats and Film Producer/AIDS Activist Suzanne Engo.
Melanie Dunea & Nigel Parry
Photographers Melanie Dunea and Nigel Parry have been longtime supporters of Operation Smile. Dunea specializes in portraits of the world’s most influential people in the public eye, often appearing in Vanity Fair, Newsweek, The London Times, People and New York Magazine. Her first published book, Precious, received top awards in the photography field.
Parry has taken award-winning images of famed cultural and political figures that have appeared in W, Vanity Fair, GQ, Newsweek and the New York Times Magazine. His work has been exhibited internationally and his books have received worldwide acclaim.
Together, they have supported the work of Operation Smile for five years and published a book, The Journey of Smiles, for Operation Smile.
Dhani Jones
Dhani Jones, a linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals, began his NFL career with the New York Giants in 2000 and joined the Philadelphia Eagles in 2004, playing three seasons.
Off the field, Dhani, which means “thinking man” in the Hindu language, markets his own line of bow ties, hosts a show on ESPN2, served as a postseason reporter for NFL Network, and was a guest conductor for the Philly Pops orchestra.
Growing up, Jones developed a strong sense of world awareness and social responsibility. He hosted the Operation Smile Junior Smile Collection event in New York in 2007 and is proud to support Operation Smile as a Smile Ambassador.
Nicole Lapin
Nicole Lapin is one of the brightest young stars in journalism today. The child of a former Nobel Prize nominee and a beauty queen, it is easy to see where Lapin gets her brains and her beauty. But, this 25-year-old first generation American has created her own niche as the face of online news and a powerful role model for young people worldwide.
Often described as the “Doogie Howser” of news, Lapin became the youngest anchor on CNN at 22. She started as one of the first anchors to launch CNN Pipeline, now CNN.com LIVE.
Reporting on the forefront of the digital revolution, Lapin contributes to various divisions of the network, like CNN Headline News, CNN U.S. and CNN Student News, with what’s hot online.
With the idea that there are other young people like herself making a difference, Lapin launched a series “Young People Who Rock.” Each week, she profiles a different person under 30, from community leaders to politicians to entrepreneurs, doing amazing things. Her columns appear on CNN.com on her own blog every week with broadcast interview to follow.
In April 2009, Lapin accompanied Operation Smile’s Program Coordinator Damien De Clerk to Alexandria, Egypt. Lapin featured De Clerk on her “Young People Who Rock” segment and became a Celebrity Ambassador for Operation Smile after her mission experience in Alexandria.
John Salley
John Salley, a 15-year NBA veteran, was the first NBA player to win four championships with three different teams. Salley played for the Detroit Pistons, Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls and the Los Angeles Lakers.
After his retirement from the NBA in 2000, Salley appeared in several television roles and films including, “Bad Boys 1 and 2,” “Eddie” and most recently “Confessions of a Shopaholic.”
Salley recently concluded seven years as the co-host of the Emmy nominated, critically acclaimed “The Best Damn Sports Show Period” on Fox Sports Net. He was also the host of “Ballers” on BET and “The John Salley Block Party,” a L.A. morning radio show.
Salley is an active supporter of Operation Smile, attending events in New York, Detroit, L.A. and Beverly Hills. He is also the 2005 recipient of Operation Smile’s Wilt Chamberlain Award and traveled to Brazil for a medical mission in September of 2006.
“One of the highlight's of my life was when I was fortunate enough to go on a mission to Fortaleza. Volunteers from all over the world come together to donate their time and love - and they truly do make a difference. It was amazing to see how, in such a short time, these children's lives are forever changed. It makes me smile every time I think about it,” Salley said of his mission experience.
David Pomeranz
David Pomeranz is an international recording artist and songwriter who has earned 22 platinum and 18 gold albums – selling over 40 millions records internationally.
To raise funds and awareness for Operation Smile as a Celebrity Smile Ambassador, Pomeranz performed fundraising concerts entitled “David Pomeranz: In Our Hands” to benefit Operation Smile Philippines. The concerts were held in conjunction with Operation Smile medical missions in Cebu City and Davao City, Philippines, from February 20-28, 2009.
“To be able to help by any measure or degree is a privilege…not everyone is able to help on a big scale and if I can lend my name and music to help people become aware of this organization, it’s my privilege,” Pomeranz said.
Aside from his accomplishments in pop music, Pomeranz has contributed music and lyrics for numerous major films, television shows and series.
Deidre Hall
Deidre Hall has reigned as one of America's most beloved actresses since her debut as Dr. Marlena Evans on NBC's "Days of our Lives." Since then, she has enjoyed a successful career that spans both daytime and nighttime television, film and theatre.
Hall has compiled an impressive list of awards and nominations. She was named Best Television Role Model; won the prestigious American Women in Radio and Television (AWRT) award in 1994; garnered six Best Actress nominations from Soap Opera Digest, with five wins, as well as three Emmy Award nominations and two nominations as Best Actress in the People's Choice Awards.
Her primetime credits range from her starring role in the movie "A Reason To Live" with Peter Fonda and Rick Schroder, to her 1986 series "Our House" with Wilford Brimley and Shannen Doherty. It was on this series that she became the first performer ever to star in both daytime and primetime simultaneously.
In August of 2009, Hall and her 16-year-old son, David Sohmer, accompanied Operation Smile on a medical mission to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
"While working with Operation Smile in Brazil, my son David and I witnessed what a team of talented, dedicated medical volunteers can do for these children. You can't imagine the dramatic changes that are being made in their lives and the joy experienced by their parents. A life-changing surgery, once so out of reach, becomes a reality due to the funding and coordination of Operation Smile," Hall said of her experience.
