Over the last 30 years, Lock Haven State College (LHSC) graduate, Norm Gordon '73, has provided philanthropic support to the Lock Haven University cross country and track & field programs that he once competed for.
Since 2018, Gordon has also volunteered as a member of the Lock Haven University Alumni Association board of directors, and even though he graduated nearly 50 years ago, he has remained connected to LHU through many service- and philanthropic-focused efforts jointly initiated with his brothers of the fraternity Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE).
Now retired, Gordon aims to leave an even greater mark on the university and athletic program that remains near and dear to his heart. He is doing so through the establishment of two scholarships: The Norm Gordon Track & Field Scholarship and The Norm Gordon Track & Field Endowment.
"I've seen first-hand just how much financial support means to Lock Haven University students," Gordon said. "I truly hope my support for the track & field program will help provide a similar experience to what I had at The Haven for future LHU student-athletes."
Drawn to LHSC by the strength of its health and physical education program, its size and the beauty of its surrounding setting, Gordon's greatest mentor was at LHSC, his coach, Jim Dolan.
Under Dolan's tutelage, Gordon was named All-Region three times in cross country - competing at Nationals all three times - and also earned one track & field trip to Nationals to compete in the steeplechase.
Along with coaching Gordon as a student-athlete, Dolan remained a friend and mentor throughout Gordon's career.
After obtaining a master's degree in athletic training from the University of Virginia (UVA), Gordon began his career in 1975 when he was hired at George Mason University (GMU) as the university's first-ever athletic trainer and track coach. He also served as GMU's intramural director and assistant cross country coach.
He coached at GMU for 24 years, earning numerous regional Coach of the Year awards, and one National Coach of the Year (track) award in 1995. In total, Gordon coached more than 100 All Americans, 10 NCAA Champions and five Olympians.
He attributes much of his professional success to lessons learned from Dolan.
"The guidance I received from coach Dolan, professionally and personally, was profound," Gordon said. "Honoring Jim Dolan's legacy is one of the main reasons that I am so passionate about giving back to Lock Haven University."
"Lock Haven University is a great small environment, where students can form impactful relationships that will last a lifetime," he added. "LHU grads are proof that small colleges generate quality individuals prepared for great success in all sectors of business."
