TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Indiana State University Athletics announced today that the Max & Jackie Gibson Award will be presented to the Oakley Foundation honoring Bud and Annie Perry at the second annual Tried & True Athletic Gala presented by Dorsett Automotive on Friday, August 5, 2022. The annual award recognizes an athletic supporter who has made a significant and lasting impact on Sycamore Athletics through special service or major philanthropic giving.
 
The honor is the highest recognition given to donors or friends of the program who have positively influenced athletics and made a positive impact within the Terre Haute and University community through athletic contributions.
 
"The Oakley Foundation and the Perry Family have been generous benefactors of Indiana State University and Sycamore Athletics for decades, and we are grateful for their impact on generations of students," ISU President Dr. Deborah J. Curtis said. "It is fitting that we honor them at the Tried & True Gala."
 
"It's exciting to know that individuals like Bud and Annie Perry will be the recipients of this honorable award named after my parents," Greg Gibson said. "Their philanthropic efforts have enhanced so many aspects of our community and have helped so many people that live here.  When the Max and Jackie Gibson Award was introduced, my family envisioned future recipients being people just like Bud and Annie. Not only are we appreciative of the work they've done in the Wabash Valley, but we're also honored that they will represent the name and the meaning behind this special award."
 
Their generosity has had a profound impact on Sycamore Athletics in numerous ways by supporting ISU's teams and student-athletes for more than 40 years. Among the notable projects includes the installation of a new floor in the south arena in 2016 to provide a first-class practice court for the Sycamore men's and women's basketball teams, while also serving as the home court for the Sycamores' volleyball program.
 
"Indiana State University and the Oakley Foundation have had a deep connection for years," said Bud Perry, Oakley Foundation, Class of 1961. "Several of our board members, myself included, sought their education here. And, like many of Indiana State's students, I was a first-generation student. The Oakley Foundation is proud to have contributed to scholarships, athletic facilities, and several campus beautification efforts over the years. We all believe that education is key to a community's growth. We love that student traditions like "March through the Arch" were made possible by that investment. Any investment we make in Indiana State is really an investment in Terre Haute."
 
The Oakley Foundation's support goes well beyond the Indiana State athletic department. Over the years, the foundation helped transform the ISU campus through the enhancement of entryways at 7th and Cherry Street (Oakley Plaza) and at 3rd and Cherry Street (Oakley Place).
 
"Indiana State University and the Wabash Valley have benefited greatly by the generosity of Bud and Annie Perry and The Oakley Foundation," Brian Dorsett, Dorsett Automotive owner said. "Their gifts throughout the community at large have always been impactful and heartfelt. It is wonderful and fitting to see Bud and Annie Perry receive the Max and Jackie Gibson Award. It is an honor and privilege for Dorsett Automotive to be the presenting sponsor for this year's Tried and True Athletic Gala."
 
"The Athletic Department is proud to hold this athletic event to honor our great donors," said Director of Athletics Sherard Clinkscales. "This year we'll continue that tradition with Bud and Annie Perry."
 
The Gala will be open to the public. Individuals will be able to purchase a seat or table by registering online via GoSycamores.com. More information and details will be available in the coming weeks. Sponsorships are also available.
 
About the Max & Jackie Gibson Award
The award is named after the inaugural recipients, Max & Jackie Gibson. Max & Jackie Gibson have supported Sycamore Athletics through philanthropic giving, going above and beyond making transformational impacts on Sycamore Athletics including, but not limited to, the Gibson Track and Field Complex and the LaVern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course. Their leadership, passion, and dedication to Sycamore Athletics has made a positive influence that will continue to be felt for years to come.
 
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