Jim Morris Humanitarian Award

Jim Morris, Inaugural Member of the IHSAA Foundation Board of Directors

The Jim Morris Humanitarian Award is annually awarded to an individual within our state’s school communities who best exemplifies the legendary life and legacy of one of Indiana’s greatest statesmen.

Jim Morris was a true "Hoosier heart with a global reach." From his roots in Terre Haute to his leadership at Pacers Sports & Entertainment and beyond our State's borders, Jim’s life was a masterclass in servant-leadership.

Jim’s fingerprints are on the very foundation of Indiana’s identity as the "Amateur Sports Capital of the World." Through his pivotal roles with Pacers Sports & Entertainment, the City of Indianapolis, and the Lilly Endowment, he championed the idea that education-based athletics are a universal language of peace and a primary vehicle for character development. 

He believed that the strength of a school system lies in its people—the mentors, leaders, and advocates who ensure that every student has the support they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom.

This award does not merely celebrate professional achievement; it honors the "Power of One." It is presented to a member of the Indiana school community—be they an educator, administrator, coach, or dedicated supporter—who:

  • Demonstrates Exemplary Citizenship: Actively giving back to their school and local community with the same selfless passion Jim brought to the global stage.
  • Champions the Student Experience: Ensuring that the spirit of education-based athletics remains a positive, inclusive, and transformative force for all youth.
  • Leads with Grace: Carrying themselves with quiet dignity and a commitment to doing the right thing, serving as a beacon of integrity for the next generation of Hoosiers.

Honorees
2025 - John Doherty 
2026 - Rick Vanderwielen 

Jim

Jim Morris didn’t just build programs; he built people. 

By recognizing these outstanding individuals, we ensure that Jim’s torch of compassion and service continues to light the way for our schools and our state. He believed you should see every opportunity in its largest context, understanding that a single act of compassion can ripple across a community. 
This award honors those who carry his core values of family, friends, faith, community, and vocation into our schools every day.

Award Criteria

The IHSAA Foundation seeks to honor individuals whose extraordinary service reflects the humanitarian ideals Jim Morris championed throughout his life. To be considered for this honor, a nominee must meet the following criteria:

  • Member of an IHSAA School Community: The nominee must be an active or retired part of an IHSAA member school (including but not limited to educators, administrators, coaches, staff, or community volunteers).

  • Embodiment of Core Values: Candidates must demonstrate a consistent commitment to Jim’s five pillars: Family, Friends, Faith, Community, and Vocation.

  • Extraordinary Service: The nominee must have a proven record of going "above and beyond" their professional duties to serve the needs of others, particularly youth.

  • Character and Integrity: Like Jim, the recipient must be a leader of high moral character who leads with humility and grace.

  • Impact on Education-Based Athletics: While not limited to coaches, the nominee’s work should support the IHSAA’s mission of using sports as a vehicle for bettering the lives of students.

Past Recipients