GENEVA, N.Y.—The Hobart and William Smith Athletic Departments will host their annual awards ceremonies in Bristol Gymnasium on Monday, May 3. The Heron Awards will begin at 11 a.m. with the Block H to follow at 1 p.m. Both events will be streamed on HWS All-Access.
 
While most award winners won't be revealed until Monday, Associate Vice President and Director of Athletics and Recreation Deb Steward has announced that James F. '56, L.H.D. '12 and Cynthia L. Caird L.H.D. '12 are the co-recipients of the Heron Award and the William J. Napier '57 Memorial Award. Both awards recognize individuals for their service to and support of athletics at William Smith and Hobart, respectively.
 
The Cairds' long-time philanthropy has been recognized through the naming of Caird Hall, a residence hall located on Emerson Hill overlooking the Caird Center for Sports and Recreation, which includes Urick Stadium, the Poole Family Sports Dome, Bristol Field House, and William Smith Field. Most recently, their generosity funded the Caird Challenge during the 2021 Athletic Day of Donors, an event that broke the single day fundraising record for the Colleges.
 
The William Smith Student-Athlete Advisory Committee also announced its annual appreciation award winners. Professor of Education Jamie MaKinster will receive the Faculty Appreciation Award. Physical Therapist Julie Tyler is the Staff Appreciation Award winner. Game day volunteeer and retired golf coach Lynn Quinn will be presented with the Community Appreciation Award.
 
The Block H is supported by the Statesmen Athletic Association and donors who have endowed awards. The Heron Awards are supported by the endowment of a generous alumna, the Heron Society and donors who have endowed awards. ADPRO Sports and Under Armour, members of the Hobart Corporate Partners program and the William Smith Corporate Alliance Program, are providing additional gifts to seniors, in addition to their support of the Statesmen and Herons throughout the year.
 
 "After last year's virtual awards ceremony, this is a step forward in celebrating the accomplishments of our Herons and Statesmen while also expressing our gratitude to those who have supported us during these challenging times," says Steward.
 
Like so many things, the format of the traditional awards banquets have changed in response to COVID-19, starting with the move outdoors. Normally a night of celebration for all Statesmen and Herons, this year, invited guests are limited to student-athletes in the Classes of 2021 and underclass student-athletes that will be receiving awards. The awards presented will also be limited to department-wide awards and the senior recognition gifts, rings for Herons and watches for Statesmen. Team awards will be presented at COVID-safe team celebrations.