Special events and announcements
2014 Hall of Fame class announced
Binghamton University athletics will recognize four elite individuals plus one record-setting team when the 2014 Athletics Hall of Fame class is inducted on December 6.
Voted into the Hall were women’s tennis playerZeynep Altinay ’07, men’s basketball playerJoe Garbarino ’58, men’s lacrosse playerKevin McKeown ’06 and women’s basketball player Helene Thomas ’85. In addition, the1983-84 wrestling team will be the first team inducted in a newly created category.
Welcome Back BBQ kicks off 2014-15 year
Binghamton University athletics welcomed back its 450+ student-athletes with a barbeque Monday afternoon at the Events Center.
The event officially kicked off the 2014-15 school year for BU athletics. President Harvey Stenger and Director of Athletics Patrick Elliott addressed the students, who then enjoyed a buffet before heading out to watch the men’s soccer team host Marist in the team’s home opener.
“Don’t waste a second,” Elliott told the group. “I challenge you to see what you can do to make a difference every second. I appreciate all that you embody in the community with your service, your conduct, academic performance and in the athletics arena. We want excellence but always with honor. One hundred percent responsibility ... zero percent excuses. We’re going to get better together. Go Bearcats!”
Police Chief Faughnan engages student-athletes in speech
Binghamton’s 400+ student-athletes participated in a speaking program featuring University Chief of Police Tim Faughnan Tuesday night at the Events Center. The event, sponsored by the Student-Athlete Success Center, was part of the department’s ongoing collaboration with colleagues across campus.
Faughnan, a former national championship collegiate athlete and lifelong sports enthusiast, has 32 years of experience at the University. He shared his insight on safety and responsibility and the challenges of being a student-athlete in today’s culture. He also spoke about the resources available across campus and his unit’s continued focus on community outreach and engagement.
“We all want you to be successful ... as students, as athletes and in everything you do,” he said. “I’ve been where you are. We look to you the same way we look to other student leaders on campus. You are the elite ... you are Division I student-athletes. You represent us. Make smart decisions and be accountable to each other. You can’t achieve your dreams doing the wrong thing. It’s never worth it.”
He reminded the group that he and his staff are available to answer questions or be of assistance at any time. “This is about shared responsibility,” Faughnan said. “If you ever have a question, come see me. We’re in this together. We’re a resource, just like many other offices on campus. I want to be part of your success. Listen to what I’ve said and put it in practice.”