Charter Champions
Last Row: Alan Schwartz, John Powless, Ron Brooks, Rick Ferman
Middle Row: Jim Farley, Pat Freebody, Sally Lugar
Front Row: Ed Nussel, Bobbie Farley, George Grisdale, Barbara Wynne
On Saturday, January 28 the USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation (USTA/MTEF) kicked off the yearlong celebration of the Foundation’s 25th Anniversary by honoring the 35 founding members, known as the Charter Champions. Through their generous philanthropy, leadership and vision, the Charter Champions established the philanthropic arm of the USTA/Midwest Section.
The event also recognized two special volunteers of the foundation, Laurie Covert and Jay Hacker, for their instrumental roles within the organization over the years. Attending the event were the Foundation’s Board of Directors, Charter Champions and their spouses, family members of deceased Charter Champions, special guests and Foundation staff.
One of the highlights of the evening was a video presentation. The video presentation told the story of the Charter Champions and how the Foundation was created through their insight and forethought. Following the video presentation, a plaque honoring the Charter Champions and listing each individual’s name was presented to be hung in the Midwest Section Hall of Fame.
“Without the passion and commitment of the 35 Charter Champions,” said Foundation President Violet Clark, “The Foundation would not be where it is today. Their commitment to tennis and education continue to impact the lives of many and future generations to come.”
To commemorate the evening, group photos were taken. Jay Hacker, a past Foundation board president then led a tour of the USTA/Midwest facilities which are owned by the Foundation.
Plans are currently underway to commemorate the Foundation’s 25th Anniversary in conjunction with the Western & Southern Open in Mason, Ohio on Friday, August 18. More details about this exciting event will be available in the coming months.
USTA/MTEF CHARTER CHAMPIONS VIDEO