TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Indiana State University Athletics announced that the Max & Jackie Gibson Award will be presented to Todd & Michelle Hein at the sixth annual Tried & True Athletic Gala presented by Riddell National Bank on Friday, August 7, 2026. 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 Todd and Michelle Hein for their tremendous dedication and commitment to our student-athletes and university," said Nathan Christensen, Indiana State Director of Athletics. "Todd and Michelle have made a lasting impact through their philanthropic support of Sycamore Athletics, while also generously investing their time and energy into Crossroads of Champions and enhancing the overall student-athlete experience at Indiana State. Their passion for Indiana State University and the Terre Haute community embodies the spirit of the Max & Jackie Gibson Award, and we are proud to celebrate and recognize their many contributions.""
 
Todd and Michelle have long been staples of the Terre Haute community and dedicated supporters and season ticket holders of Indiana State Athletics. Todd has served as owner and president of Labor Link, Inc. since 2006. Michelle, a 2008 graduate of Indiana State, is a CPA at Sackrider & Company in Terre Haute.
 
Members of the Investor Society for Sycamore Athletics, the couple was honored with the John P. Newton Spirit of ISU Award in 2023. Todd also played an integral role in the creation of the Crossroads of Champions Collective for Sycamore Athletics and continues to serve as chair of its executive committee.
 
Todd and Michelle have one son, Jacob, a sophomore at Terre Haute North High School, where he plays basketball and golf.  
 
"Michelle and I are honored and truly humbled to be this year's recipients of the Max and Jackie Gibson Award," said Todd Hein. "Indiana State and Sycamore Athletics mean so much to the city of Terre Haute, and we are excited to be part of the Sycamore family. You can feel the momentum growing in our community and we look forward to a bright future for Indiana State University."

"My family and I are excited that the 2026 Max & Jackie Gibson Award will honor Todd and Michelle Hein. Todd and Michelle have been tremendous supporters of Sycamore Athletics through their philanthropic leadership, while also investing their time and energy into Crossroads of Champions and helping ensure our student-athletes have a first-class experience at Indiana State," said Greg Gibson. "Their commitment to Indiana State University and the Terre Haute community continues to make a meaningful impact, and the Gibson family is proud to see them recognized for their dedication and generosity. We look forward to celebrating Todd and Michelle and thanking them for all they do for our student-athletes and university."
 
The Gala will be open to the public. Individuals will be able to purchase a seat or table by registering online via GoSycamores.com. Sponsorships are also available.
 
For more information on tables or sponsorships please contact Mandy Hopton at 812-237-4092 or mandy.hopton@indstate.edu.
 
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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