The Shepherd University Athletic Hall of Fame (SUAHOF) was founded in 1985 by the director of athletics, Dr. Michael Jacobs. Dr. Jacobs was responsible for establishing the initial Selection Committee consisting of David Newlin (director of college relations), Joe Browning (sports information director), and Dr. Jacobs.
The Selection Committee developed the criteria used to determine eligibility, number to be selected annually, awards to be presented, and the format for the awards ceremony. Eventually, the Selection Committee would be increased to fourteen (14) members, as set forth by the SUAHOF by-laws. The by-laws changed the name of the Selection Committee to the Board of Directors, as it is known today.
Presently, the SUAHOF has 155 members. Of the 155 members inducted, 19 members are former Shepherd coaches. Four contributors have been inducted.
On October 3, 1998, the SUAHOF Board of Directors honored the late Dr. A. Gordon Slonaker for his service and dedication to the SUAHOF by planting a tree in his memory on the north side of Stutzman-Slonaker Hall.
In 1997, the SUAHOF by-laws were amended to allow members of the Board of Directors the privilege of electing a chairperson on an annual basis. Formerly, the sports information director was the permanent chairperson.
In 2000, the SUAHOF by-laws were further amended to set three-year terms for members of the Board of Directors, with appointments/terminations occurring on alternating years. The amended by-laws reduced the Board of Directors to thirteen (13) members, including a new at-large position, to provide a graduate of Shepherd University, not necessarily an athlete, the opportunity to serve on the Board of Directors.
In June 2000, the Board of Directors adopted the official SUAHOF ring for members. Currently, members may purchase the ring through Jostens at their own expense.
In June 2001, the Board of Directors established two (2) scholarships for Shepherd University athletes (1 male/1 female). The scholarships are funded by members of the SUAHOF and Board of Directors.
In November of 2002, the Board of Directors presented a portrait of the late Charles “Charlie” Kave to the Shepherd University Athletic Department. The portrait is on display in the Butcher Center.
In the spring of 2004, Shepherd College became Shepherd University. Thus, the Board of Directors of the Athletic Hall of Fame approved the name change to Shepherd University Athletic Hall of Fame in June 2004.
In the spring of 2005, the SUAHOF by-laws were amended to extend the waiting period of former student-athletes from five years to ten years since the candidate last participated in athletics at Shepherd. Also the SUAHOF by-laws were amended to allow active coaches to become eligible for selection with a minimum of 15 years of experience at Shepherd University.
The undefeated 1955 Shepherd football team was recognized in 2005 on their 50th anniversary. A plaque and team picture commemorating that event hangs in the Butcher Center lobby.
In the winter of 2007 SUAHOF by-laws were amended to increase the membership of the board up to 15 members.
In 2012 the Shepherd University Alumni Association, Department of Athletics and the University Advancement agreed to cosponsor the Athletic Hall of Fame and reduce the committee to five.
In 2016 the undefeated 1955 Shepherd football team became the first team to be inducted into the hall.
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