Lake Forest College Athletic Department, in conjunction with the Forester Athletic Network (F.A.N. Club), will present the 2015 Forester Impact Award to Spike Gummere at the Athletic Recognition Ceremony during Homecoming Weekend on Saturday, October 10. He will be honored for his loyal support, voluntary contributions, and deep commitment to sustaining the Foresters’ Tradition of Excellence.
"Spike's involvement and contributions to the success of the College's enrollment and alumni and development initiatives over the years are nothing less than extraordinary," commented Lake Forest College Director of Athletics Jackie Slaats. "His specific contributions to Forester Athletics are immeasurable and this award is a token of our deep appreciation for his continued willingness to go above and beyond. Since day one, Spike's support of our athletic program has been paramount to our success and I couldn’t be more pleased or proud of the fact he remains a loyal fan at contests throughout each season."
Spike's involvement with Lake Forest College Athletics began with his hiring as the school's director of admissions in 1968. Throughout the years he has attended countless home contests in every sport to cheer on the Foresters and seems to have his own spot at nearly every venue. His loyal support of the many student-athletes he helped recruit to the College and those who have coached Lake Forest teams over the years has always made him one of the most beloved and appreciated Forester fans.
The Forester Athletic Network (FAN Club) was established in 1995 and Spike has been a member throughout its existence. An annual participant the organization's golf outing and a regular at FAN Club events on campus and all over the country, he has helped alumni stay connected to the College.
Spike has also been involved with several fundraising efforts to improve Forester athletic facilities, including the renovation of Farwell Field in 2004, the $17 million Sports and Recreation Center expansion in 2010, and the numerous enhancements made to Alumni Memorial Fieldhouse (ice rink) in the last five years.
Spike's official role at the College has changed over time. He spent several years working for Admissions and Development and now serves as Special Assistant to the President. He remains heavily involved with Forester Athletics and can still be seen at several home events.
The Forester Impact Award honors individuals who have made a significant impact on athletics at Lake Forest College through their loyal support and whose consistent and meritorious commitment has contributed to the success of Forester Athletics. These individuals have gone above and beyond in serving and supporting the Forester athletic community.