Illinois Wesleyan University recognized senior student-athletes at its ninth annual “Victory With Honor Senior Banquet,” held April 28 in Bloomington, Illinois. The event featured the presentation of top athlete awards and the induction of new members into the Order of Titans.
The banquet highlights achievements in athletics, academics, and community service among graduating students. It serves as an important tradition for honoring those who have contributed to Titan Athletics, which includes teams such as the Illinois Wesleyan Titans Men’s Lacrosse. The men’s lacrosse team competes at the NCAA Division III level and is a member of the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin, according to the official website.
Adriana Crabtree and Taylor French shared the Barb Cothren Award for female athletes, while Evan Lowder received the Dennie Bridges Award for male athletes. Caroline Gatchell was named recipient of the Jason Jones True Titan Award for character, and Ashtin Elder earned the Steve Doran Award for community service. These awards are named after former coaches or alumni who made significant contributions to Illinois Wesleyan athletics.
Order of Titans honorees are selected annually by coaching staff based on academic performance, athletic achievement, and citizenship. Originally awarded only to men until 1975—and women since 1976—recipients receive lifetime passes to home athletic events at Tucci Stadium where teams like men’s lacrosse play their home games according to official sources. The full list of this year’s Order of Titans includes representatives from various sports including basketball, softball, volleyball, track and field, swimming and diving, golf, soccer, tennis, football—and men’s lacrosse players Billy McHugh and Karsten Nordlie.
The recognition underscores Illinois Wesleyan’s commitment to supporting student-athletes both on campus in Bloomington according to its official website and within their respective conferences. As part of NCAA Division III competition according to university records, these students balance rigorous academic schedules with their dedication on fields such as Tucci Stadium.
