This past week the University of Tennessee athletics departments were recognized during the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) for promotional work during the 2007-08 season.

The “Think Pink” event, hosted during the Lady Vols basketball match-up again Rutgers in February, earned the Marketing Department a silver award in the Single Game Promotion category.

“The ‘Think Pink’ event was such a great event that touched so many in the community; I think it’s great to receive such a national honor,” said Jimmy Delaney, director of marketing and promotions for women’s athletics. “We hope to continue the event and watch it grow to include even more people in the future.”

The Athletics Broadcasting Department also was recognized with a silver award for its promotional TV ad featuring former Tennessee basketball standout Chris Lofton.

“We are extremely fortunate to have a talented group of videographers, editors and producers headed by Barry Rice and Link Hudson in our athletics broadcasting department,” said Chris Fuller, associate athletic director for marketing. “They work hard year-round and it can be seen in our TV spots, coaches shows and promotional material. To be recognized above so many other athletics departments in the NCAA shows just how much talent we have right here at Tennessee.”

LAWSON RECOGNIZED AS UNIVERSITY DIVISION DONOR OF THE YEAR

Cleveland, Tenn., businesswoman Brenda Lawson was selected as the 2007-08 National Association of Athletic Development Directors University Division Donor of the Year on Wednesday.

Lawson has committed more than $10 million dollars in support of athletics and academic initiatives on the University of Tennessee's Knoxville and Chattanooga campuses.

"Brenda has been very generous to the University of Tennessee, not only with her financial donations but with her time as well," said UT President Dr. John Petersen. "She is an outstanding advocate for education and a staunch advocate for young women. She is a tremendous asset for the University of Tennessee."

Lawson's most recent major commitment includes components for a women's success endowment, a student pedestrian mall, athletics training center and the school of business at UT Chattanooga, and the Pratt Pavilion basketball practice facility, Neyland stadium renovations and other priorities at UT Knoxville.

“I believe that athletic participation takes students a step farther –beyond academics and the classroom,” award recipient Lawson said. “Athletics is an important element in the overall education experience – in the making of a well rounded student. Sports teach skills that just can’t be taught in classrooms -- skills like leadership, teamwork, discipline, dedication and desire to achieve. These are vital when you are looking for a career.”

Lawson is a self-made businesswoman and accomplished entrepreneur and is founder and CEO of Brenda Lawson & Associates, a managerial services company in Cleveland.

CRONAN NAMED 2008-09 NACDA PRESIDENT

After a series of reports given by the NACDA executive staff, the business agenda was concluded with the passing of the gavel from 2007-08 NACDA President Kevin White, incoming director of athletics at Duke University, to First Vice President Joan Cronan, women’s director of athletics at the University of Tennessee, who assumes the presidential position.

Welcoming the opportunity to serve the association that has helped and touched her for so many years was Cronan.

“This organization has meant so much to me personally and professionally, and I realize I have such big shoes to fill,” she said. “I look forward to working with you and for you in the coming year.”

Award winners were recognized at NAADD's 15th Annual Convention, June 9-12, at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas. On Wednesday, the winners were also honored during the U.S. Sports Academy Directors' Cup Luncheon sponsored by Collegiate Images.