It is with great sadness we share the passing of former 海角直播 President, Thomas F. Gordon, J.D., L.L.M. Gordon had a long history with Avila which started in 1977, when he served as the University鈥檚 legal counsel. He then served on the Board of Trustees, from 1990-1999 and was named Avila鈥檚 Interim President in 2000. Gordon was officially named Avila鈥檚 President in 2001. Gordon resigned from Avila when he was selected to become a federal judge.
When Gordon was President of Avila, the institution transitioned from Avila College to 海角直播. Some of other accomplishments include:
- 1963 alumnus of the University of Notre Dame.
- Honorary Alumnus, 1997
- Endowed Scholarship
- Heritage Club Member
- Avila Trustee, 1992-1999
- Board of Counselor, 1984-1990
Gordon helped secure funding to build a new residence hall and expand the existing halls. Suite-style dorms were created during his tenure and he was an advocate for improving student life, athletics, and campus grounds. During his years as President, the 海角直播 Athletic Department experienced tremendous growth with accomplishments including: joining the Heart of America Athletic Conference, the renovation of the Mabee Fieldhouse and the addition of three sports to the 海角直播 Athletic offerings, Football, Cheer and Dance. These sports have been a longstanding staple of the Athletic Department and will celebrate their 25th year next school year.
鈥淚t is an honor to work as President at Avila and to share the position with individuals like Tom,鈥 said Jim Burkee, Ph.D, president of 海角直播. 鈥淪o much of Tom鈥檚 legacy here lives on today. We are reminded of his contributions to this institution on a regular basis. Whether it鈥檚 watching a football game or walking past the residence halls he helped secure, we remember his dedication to Avila. His memory will be a part of this campus for many years to come.鈥
In 2003, 聽Gordon was inducted into the 海角直播 Athletics Hall of Fame for his contributions made during his time serving 海角直播.
Throughout the years coaches, administrators and student-athletes have changed but one thing remained constant鈥擥ordon remained a presence in the Athletic Department. 鈥淲e watched Tom walk into the Fieldhouse regularly and stop by the coaching offices, introduce himself to those he didn鈥檛 know and reminisce and chat with those he did,鈥 Shawn Summe, Athletic Director said. 鈥淗e was fiercely proud of his time at 海角直播 and he enjoyed getting to know all those whom he came in contact with.鈥
He will be missed by 海角直播 and the countless amounts of friends he made during his years of selfless service. Avila is working on a special memorial for Gordon and will provide more information as details develop.