All Distinguished Alumni?

The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes the exceptional achievements of Indiana State University alumni. Since it was created fifty years ago, over 200 alumni have been honored with this award. Browsing the files, some familiar names jumped out at me. Birch Bayh Sr. (father of a US senator) was recognized for his contributions in health and physical fitness. Dr. Paul S. Rhoads (Rhoads Hall’s namesake) was recognized for medical education and research in infectious diseases. While reading through the names, ISU’s most renowned alumni was suspiciously absent. Larry Bird was not listed among the Distinguished Alumni. If anyone demonstrated distinguishable qualities for ISU, it was definitely Larry Bird. It saddens me that once again Indiana State has shunned the largest billboard for their campus.