TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Indiana State University Athletics announced that the Max & Jackie Gibson Award will be presented to Brian & Gina Dorsett at the fifth annual Tried & True Athletic Gala presented by Dorsett Automotive on Friday, August 1, 2025. 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.
 
"Indiana State Athletics is honored to recognize Brian and Gina Dorsett for their years of dedication to our programs and student athletes," Nathan Christensen, Indiana State Athletic Director said. "The Dorsett family has been a staple in our community and region. Dorsett Automotive has been the title sponsor of this event for many years and supporting numerous areas within athletics. We are excited to present them our highest recognition in the Max & Jackie Gibson Award."
 
Brian Dorsett is a retired professional baseball player who played eight seasons for the Cleveland Indians, California Angels, New York Yankees, San Diego Padres, Cincinnati Reds, and Chicago Cubs of Major League Baseball. He was a Triple A All Star and was inducted into both the Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame (Class of 2008), the MiLB's Buffalo Bisons Hall of Fame (Class of 2019), and the Indiana State University Hall of Fame (Class of 2008),
 
Dorsett is currently President of Dorsett Automotive, having served on the Regional Advisory Board Council for Nissan USA and Hyundai USA, and Principal Owner of the Terre Haute Rex. The Dorsett Automotive group has grown to include both Dorsett Mitsubishi and Nissan/Hyundai has become Southern Indiana's premier dealership, providing Terre Haute and the Wabash Valley with "The driving experience you want, backed by the service you trust." With its growth over the years, Dorsett has contributed to Terre Haute's, and the Wabash Valley's economy with the sales of its products and the employment of its people.
 
Dorsett has been an ardent supporter of Sycamore Athletics and his commitment to the Terre Haute community is evident through his active involvement in local philanthropy and economic development initiatives. He has consistently championed education, youth programs, and economic revitalization, leaving an indelible mark on the University and the surrounding area.
 
Brian has won numerous distinctions over the years, including Boys and Girls Club Distinguished Alumni Award, Educational Heritage Association Distinguished Alumni Award, and Business A Level Above Award. Dorsett Automotive is currently partnering with or has sponsored the following organizations in Terre Haute including: The United Way of the Wabash Valley, Terre Haute Humane Society, The March of Dimes, Terre Haute Boys and Girls Club, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, Indiana State University, WBGL, The Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, Terre Haute REX Baseball Team, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and numerous other small groups, charities and organizations.
 
Gina Dorsett is retired after being very active in the Terre Haute community over the years. She previously served as the Preschool Director while working at First Baptist Church of Terre Haute. In addition, she was actively involved with The League of Terre Haute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to children that has impacted the lives of thousands of children and families in Vigo County and the Wabash Valley through the Clothes Closet and dental education and extended services.
 
During her time at Indiana State, Gina remained active serving on the Union Board and as the Homecoming Steering Committee Chairperson. She was also a member of Chi Omega and was a Blue Beret. She also served on the Mortar Board during her time with the Sycamores.
 
Brian Dorsett attended Indiana State University from 1979-1983. He studied business administration, while Gina Dorsett graduated from Indiana State in 1983 with her degree in elementary education with a minor in early childhood development. The Dorsetts have three children – Abigail and her husband Jeremy Coons, Brittany and her husband Cody Young, and Brandon and his wife Ashlen Dorsett. The Dorsetts are blessed with five grandchildren.
 
"Gina and I are deeply honored to receive the Max and Jackie Gibson Award," Brian Dorsett said. "The Gibson family, through their businesses and philanthropic efforts, has made a significant impact on both Indiana State University and the Terre Haute community. We are incredibly thankful and appreciative of this recognition. Our passion for Terre Haute and Indiana State has always been strong, and we wish the Athletic Department continued success for many years to come. We look forward to supporting their future endeavors."

"My family and I are excited that the 2025 Max & Jackie Gibson Award will honor Brian and Gina Dorsett. The Dorsett family have been consistent Sycamore supporters, contributing to Indiana State with their time, talent, and financial support," said Greg Gibson. "They have been the title sponsor of this event since its inception and the Gibson family is proud to have them recognized for their many contributions. My family will be looking forward to the event and celebrating Brian and Gina's unwavering support to Indiana State and the Terre Haute community."
 
The Gala will be open to the public. Individuals are able to purchase a seat or table by registering online via GoSycamores.com. 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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