In a special brunch and induction ceremony Saturday morning at Purdue Northwest’s Center of Hospitality & Tourism Management, the PNW Athletics Department officially added long-time supporter Joe Williamson to its Hall of Fame. Williamson becomes the 61st member of the Pride Athletics Hall of Fame and was also recognized and honored during halftime of Saturday Purdue Northwest women’s basketball game with Ashland University (Ohio).
“Joe has been an amazing supporter for Pride Athletics for so long and is so deserving of the Hall of Fame,” said Rick Costello, PNW Director of Athletics. “Working with John Friend, he has co-chaired the annual Powers Purdue Northwest Golf Outing that started in 1981 and raised over $1 million dollars for Purdue Northwest student-athlete scholarships. His efforts have been instrumental in helping our department grow and transition to NCAA Division II.”
In addition to his work as co-chair of the annual Powers Golf Outing, Williamson has been a leader and major donor for the Powers Scholarship Fund. Williamson also serves on the Board of Directors for the Community Foundation of Northwest Indiana and is chairman of the Maintenance Committee for Veterans Memorial Park in Munster. He graduated from Purdue University in 1969 and served two years in the U.S. Army from 1969-71. Williamson resides in Dyer, Ind., with his wife, Donna.
The Purdue Northwest Athletics Hall of Fame recognizes and honors those individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the achievements and prestige of PNW in the field of athletics and who have continued to demonstrate in their lives the values imparted by intercollegiate athletics. Individuals are recognized in four areas: administrator, athlete, coach and meritorious service.
