TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Indiana State University Athletics announced that the Max & Jackie Gibson Award will be presented to David Patterson at the fourth annual Tried & True Athletic Gala presented by Dorsett Automotive on Friday, August 2, 2024. The annual athletic award recognizes athletic donors who have 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.
 
"It is only fitting that David Patterson receives the Max and Jackie Gibson Award," Interim Athletic Director Angie Lansing said. "He has been instrumental in partnering with the Gibson family and has helped transform the perception of his community through hard work and continuous improvement. David has been invaluable helping the university host championship events for as long as I have been a part of the athletic department. This ranges from MVC Track and Field Championships to MVC and NCAA Baseball Championships to countless NCAA Cross Country Regionals and Championships. He has always been willing to help us enhance the experience for student-athletes and fans. I am grateful to him for his partnership and leadership and will miss working with him as he enjoys retirement."
 
David Patterson has been the Executive Director of the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau for the past 30 years. Patterson's visionary leadership transformed Terre Haute and West Central Indiana into a premier destination for sporting events and tourism.  
 
During Patterson's tenure, the Lavern Gibson Cross Country Course has garnered national attention, firmly establishing Terre Haute as a championship hub for cross country events. West Central Indiana has earned the title of "Cross Country Town USA," hosting prestigious events such as the NCAA Division I and III National Championships and IHSAA State Finals as well as the annual Nike Cross Country Town meet.
 
In addition, West Central Indiana developed a sports town destination moniker under Patterson's leadership, playing host to anchor events including Terre Haute Quarter Midget Nationals, the USA Gymnastics Trampoline and Tumbling Regionals, Special Olympics Indiana, as well as several tennis regionals.
 
Patterson has been heavily involved in the Wabash Valley over his 30 years of service. He was president of the Community Christian School Board from 1998-99, a board member of the Governor Solid Waste Planning Council Board from 1991-present, and a Kiwanis Club of Terre Haute member from 1989-present including serving as an officer from 1989-1994. Additionally, he has been involved in the Terre Haute Montessori School, Terre Haute Tennis Club, and the Wabash Valley Family Sports Center.
 
"As Executive Director of the Terre Haute Convention & Visitors Bureau for 30 years, I accept this award on behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers that have financed and worked together on many wonderful events," Patterson said. "Our common goal was to enhance a visitors experience with Indiana State University and the community of Terre Haute. I am truly blessed and loved to have the support of my family, and to have had a job that could allow me to be involved in this wonderful partnership. I am honored and humbled to receive the Max & Jackie Gibson award at the Tried & True Gala because these two people have had such a profound and positive influence on my life."
 
"For decades, David Patterson has been a special leader throughout West Central Indiana. David's hard work and dedication have greatly impacted this community and the Wabash Valley," Brian Dorsett, President of Dorsett Automotive said. "David's tireless and impactful work in tourism as well as working alongside with ISU, has helped bring major events and championships to Indiana State University and Terre Haute. Thousands of people have come from near and far to compete in Cross Country and Special Olympics and now, large conventions. We are so grateful for David's contributions throughout the Wabash Valley and Terre Haute. We are all happy to celebrate the accomplishments of this man. Well done, David!"
 
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.
 
Follow the Sycamores
For the latest information on the Sycamore Athletics, make sure to check out GoSycamores.com. You can also find the team on social media including Facebook and Twitter. Fans can also receive updates on Sycamore Athletics by downloading the March On App from both the App Store and the Google Play Store.