Franciscan University of Steubenville Hosts 55th Annual Baron Club Awards Dinner

The 55th-annual Baron Club Awards Dinner at Franciscan University of Steubenville was a night filled with community recognition and inspiration. The event, which serves as the university’s primary fundraising effort for its intercollegiate athletics program, honored local sponsors and community members who have made significant contributions to the Ohio Valley.

Former Super Bowl champion, Matt Birk, delivered a powerful keynote speech, highlighting the importance of commitment and discipline in both sports and faith. Birk shared his personal journey of rediscovering his Catholic faith and emphasized the parallels between sports and religion.

Among the honorees were Joanna Bernabei-McNamee, head women’s basketball coach at Boston College, and Tom Timmons, a local banker and community benefactor. Both received the Father Terence Henry, TOR, Award for their outstanding contributions to their respective fields.

The Phillipson family was also recognized with the Kuzma Family Award for their philanthropic efforts in memory of their daughter, Cynthia. The family founded the Cynthia Rose Phillipson Charitable Foundation, which provides scholarships for local students and supports charitable causes, including Mary’s Meals.

The event showcased the strong community ties and spirit of giving that define the Ohio Valley. Todd Phillipson expressed gratitude for the support the family has received in honoring Cynthia’s legacy, emphasizing the importance of coming together in times of crisis.

Overall, the Baron Club Awards Dinner was a celebration of community, faith, and service. The event highlighted the positive impact individuals can have when they come together to support and uplift one another.