HAMMOND & WESTVILLE, Ind. -- The Purdue University Northwest Athletics Department is proud to announce the new inductions into the PNW Hall of Fame for 2020 -- Ben Simmons, Stephanie Beck, and the Graegin Family. They will be inducted on Saturday, February 22 during an honorary brunch and recognized during the afternoon's Pride basketball games against the Lake Superior State Lakers.
Ben Simmons graduated from PNW in 1992 as a basketball star, recording 979 career points, 952 rebounds and 190 steals during his career. Ben served as team captain, averaged a double-double in points and rebounds during the 1991 season and was a three-time winner of the Pride Hustle award. He has since gone on to build his own company - BnX Sports Technology, Inc. - and is defined by a determination to succeed.
"Ben was an incredibly talented player and it's exciting to see his hard work recognized," said Director of Athletics Emeritus John Friend. "He was a defensive force on the court and has been a tremendous supporter of PNW Athletics."
Stephanie Beck graduated from PNW in 2012 as the fourth highest scorer in the women's basketball program's history. During her career, she recorded 1,686 points as well as collecting 132 assists and 603 rebounds. She went on to serve as an assistant coach at an NCAA Division III program in Oregon before returning to PNW as an assistant women's basketball coach and head cross country coach. She then moved to Vermont where she is a K-8th Grade Director of School Enrichment and Athletics.
"Stephanie was a very gifted player and coach and to have her join the ranks of so many talented and successful student-athletes and alumni is well deserved," said Director of Athletics Rick Costello.
The Graegin Family have been very generous supporters of Purdue University Northwest and PNW Athletics. Their generosity led to the development of the Paul K. & Barbara Greagin Academic Excellence Center - a state-of-the-art learning space for Purdue Northwest student-athletes that features twelve computers, two Apple iMac desktop stations, a printer, and mounted television screens used for presentations.
"The Graegin Family has been very thoughtful and generous with Purdue Northwest," said Friend. "Their gifts will continue to make an impact to students for years to come."
PNW Athletics is proud to honor these astounding individuals and their many accomplishments. The cost of the brunch is $15, which includes entry into the afternoon basketball games against Lake Superior State. Those interested in attending are invited to register online by Wednesday, February 12.
