San Diego Rotary Club will honor Ben and Nikki Clay of Mission Hills next month as “Mr. and Mrs. San Diego” for 2024.
The acknowledgement by one of the world’s largest Rotary clubs went to the couple for their visionary leadership and years of service to the community that have shaped San Diego’s shorelines, skylines and civic pride.
“San Diego Rotary Club 33 is excited to select Ben and Nikki Clay for the Mr. and Mrs. San Diego 2024 award,” said Mia Harenski, president of San Diego Rotary. “We are lucky to witness a couple like the Clays, who’ve given so much to San Diego, and continue to do so even as they’ve retired. They are a San Diego gem and an inspiration to me and so many others, and most deserving of holding the title.”
A Life Committed to Public Service
Ben and Nikki Clay have dedicated over 50 years to serving San Diego, beginning with their education at San Diego State University, where they met in the late 1960s. While Ben served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps, Nikki worked to support Vietnam veterans through education. After Ben’s military service, he launched a successful government relations career, founding Carpi & Clay, while Nikki built her career in public and government relations, eventually joining Ben to establish The Clay Co. Both have contributed significantly to civic and philanthropic initiatives across San Diego, Sacramento and Washington, D.C.
A Love Story with a Purpose
Together, the Clays have championed leadership and service, paving the way for community initiatives and opening doors for women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Nikki broke barriers as the first female chair of organizations including the Downtown San Diego Partnership and the San Diego Holiday Bowl, while Ben took on leadership roles with institutions such as the San Diego Symphony and the San Diego River Conservancy.
Aztecs for Life
Deeply connected to their alma mater, the Clays have been recognized as influential SDSU alumni. They co-chaired the University’s Centennial Celebration, established scholarships and supported numerous campus initiatives including the “Clay Gateway” formal campus entrance. Lifelong supporters of SDSU’s mission, they continue to inspire future leaders and remain active in the university’s growth and success, according to the club.
While the Mr. and Mrs. San Diego award has been in existence since 1952, the Clays are only the fourth married couple to receive it. For a full list of recipients, go to the San Diego Rotary Club website.
San Diego Rotary will present the award at its Dec. 5 luncheon.
