In a heartfelt ceremony on September 13 Ithaca College inducted its 54th Athletic Hall of Fame class, honoring eight individual athletes and two teams. The event, held at Emerson Suites, was filled with emotion, as inductees shared stories not only of their athletic achievements but also of the personal connections and family-like bonds they formed during their time at IC.
“My head coach, Jim Nichols, used to tell us that there are two families you have in life: the one you’re born with and the one that you make,” said James Ravener ’04, who was inducted for his contributions to the track and field and cross country teams. “As a college student, I didn’t understand that, but now, at 43 years old, it makes all the sense in the world.”
Throughout the evening, inductees like Ravener reflected on the lasting impact that Ithaca College had on their lives. The theme of community and belonging resonated with all of the inductees, who expressed gratitude for the relationships that shaped their college experience. Katherine Bixby ’10, a standout in basketball and lacrosse, shared, “It’s the people who make the place. My friends, coaches, and teammates made IC my home away from home.”
Special Moments and Memories
The inductees shared fond memories of their time at IC, from Stewart Park to late nights in the library, and even missed football gear. Jamie Donovan ’08, a football player, humorously recounted how he had to borrow his father’s suit for the ceremony after leaving his own at home, a moment that drew laughter and applause from the audience.
For many, the evening was about more than just individual accomplishments. Teams like the 2004 and 2005 women’s crew teams, who won national championships, reminisced about the fan support they received during their championship runs. “We could hear them chanting ‘IC! IC! IC!’ as we raced,” recalled Jess Selock ’05.
From heartfelt speeches to laughter-filled anecdotes, the night embodied the spirit of Ithaca College’s tight-knit community and reminded everyone in attendance of the lasting bonds forged at IC.
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