NEW YORK – The BIG EAST Conference announced today the establishment of the John Thompson Jr. Award, which will recognize significant efforts to fight prejudice and discrimination and advance positive societal change.
The John Thompson Jr. Award will annually honor a BIG EAST athletics department, team or individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, perseverance and/or creativity in promoting an environment of inclusiveness or championing the end of discrimination, racism and bigotry. Thompson, who died on August 30, was a national leader and fierce advocate for racial equity and social justice.
“Coach Thompson’s convictions and determination to reverse societal injustices helped define his life, and we hope this award will inspire the next generation of advocates to press ahead and pave the way for a more equitable world,” said BIG EAST Commissioner Val Ackerman.