Indiana State Athletics honored Mike and Amy Alley at the third annual Tried & True Gala for their continued support for the ISU Athletic Department and the university over the years.
A crowd of 200-plus turned out on August 4 at Hulman Center for the event as the Alleys were honored with the Max and Jackie Gibson Award. The award recognizes an athletic supporter who has made a significant and lasting impact on Sycamore Athletics through special service or major philanthropic giving. The honor is the highest recognition given to donors or friends of the program.
“We came together to celebrate and recognize the indelible mark that Mike and Amy (Alley) have left on this great institution,” ISU President Dr. Deborah Curtis said. “Their generosity of time and joyful giving have enriched the lives of our students, including our student-athletes, and the entire campus community. Mike and Amy have definitely shown us all how to make a life by what they give through their volunteer efforts and philanthropy.
The evening included a video tribute to the Alleys with guest speakers including United States Senator Todd Young and Greg Gibson.
“In addition to philanthropic giving, the Alleys have held numerous leadership positions to support Indiana State students and faculty,” Young said. “We’re grateful for all they have done to support Sycamore student-athletes and Indiana State sports teams. Congratulations to Mike and Amy on this well-deserved honor.”
“Mike and Amy, thank you for what you have done for this university,” Gibson, son of Max & Jackie Gibson said. “You’ve given back with your time, talents, and treasure in countless ways. Your commitment and generosity demonstrate the exact purpose of this award. On behalf of my mom and dad, and the entire Gibson family, congratulations to you both.”
The Alleys were appreciative of the support from their friends, family, and the community that came out in support of the Gala.
“When I was a student at Indiana State, I volunteered in the concession stand in the Hulman Center popping popcorn and selling candy,” Amy Alley said. “I never could have imagined such a special night here. Thank you very much, it means more than you will ever know. We appreciate all the friends and family members that made it here to join us for this award. Thank you to all who are here supporting the coaches, support staff, and most of all, the student-athletes.”
“This award is not about Amy and I,” Mike Alley said. “It’s about everyone who has come to support Indiana State University. Indiana State is our university; we graduated from here and we’re alumni – we’re going to be alumni for the rest of our lives, and we will have that “True Blue” love for the rest of our lives. I’m extraordinarily proud of Indiana State and our athletic program, and what we are delivering. Thank you very much for this great honor, we truly are humbled to be considered among the award winners of this prestigious award.”
ISU Director of Athletics Sherard Clinkscales credited numerous people that made the event a success on Friday night.
“The Alley’s dedication and steadfast support for Indiana State University epitomizes the spirit and giving that is the hallmark of the Max & Jackie Gibson award,” Clinkscales said. “I want to thank our title sponsor, Dorsett Automotive, and all of our sponsors and attendees for their support in this annual event. Our athletics staff, along with our campus partners Sodexo and Hulman Center, continue to put on a tremendous event every year and I look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.”