Davenport University President Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D., received the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference’s highest honor, the Tom Donahue Service Award, during the GLIAC Spring Board of Directors meeting in Lansing.
Established in 1988, the award recognizes current or former administrators who have made significant contributions to the GLIAC and intercollegiate athletics while demonstrating an exceptional commitment to the conference and its student-athletes. Pappas becomes the first Davenport representative to receive the honor.
“Dr. Pappas’ receipt of the Donahue Award reflects a legacy of visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to higher education, and a lasting impact on students and institutions across Michigan,” said GLIAC Commissioner Kris Dunbar. “His guidance as Davenport University successfully transitioned to the NCAA Division II level has established the blueprint for others to follow. He has served as a trusted advisor whose insights and input have been invaluable to me and the conference.”
Among his most significant contributions to the GLIAC, Pappas played an important role in conference expansion efforts, helping identify and cultivate relationships with prospective member institutions while advocating for the conference’s long-term growth and stability.
As chair of the GLIAC Board of Directors during the COVID-19 pandemic, Pappas provided steady leadership as the conference navigated unprecedented challenges, guiding decision-making with transparency, flexibility and a focus on student-athlete success.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Tom Donahue Service Award from the GLIAC,” said Pappas. “This recognition is especially meaningful because it comes from colleagues and institutions that share a commitment to providing exceptional opportunities for student-athletes. I have always believed that athletics play a vital role in developing leadership, character and lifelong success. I am grateful for the leadership of our commissioner, Kris Dunbar, and for Paul Lowden, our athletic director. I want to express my appreciation to all our coaches and student-athletes and all who worked together to strengthen our conference and create a positive impact for students.”
At Davenport, Pappas demonstrated a strong commitment to athletics through the development of the Farmers Athletic Complex and the expansion of sport sponsorship opportunities, creating additional pathways for student-athletes to compete and succeed.
Pappas, who announced his retirement effective June 30, 2026, has served as Davenport’s president since 2009. In recognition of his impact on athletics and the university, the Board of Trustees proposed and unanimously approved the naming of the university’s athletic stadium in his honor. A dedication will be held on the site June 17.
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