Induction Ceremony for Stillman College Athletics Hall of Fame

News Summary

Stillman College will honor its Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2025 at an induction ceremony on February 7, 2025. This event will celebrate the accomplishments of six inductees across various sports, recognizing both legendary figures and their lasting impact on athletics. The ceremony takes on added significance as it remembers Dr. Archie Wade, the first Black faculty member at the University of Alabama, who passed away recently. Fans can also enjoy a special recognition during the Homecoming basketball games on February 8 against Arkansas Baptist College.

Exciting Induction Ceremony Planned for Stillman College Athletics Hall of Fame

As fans gear up for a fantastic Homecoming Week, Stillman College is all set to roll out the red carpet for its distinguished Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2025. The induction ceremony is happening on February 7, 2025, at 8:30 A.M., and it promises to be an event filled with memories, pride, and celebration of athletic excellence.

Honoring Top Athletic Talent

This year, the Hall of Fame will welcome six incredible inductees who have made their mark in various sports. The new members of the Hall of Fame include:

• Dr. Archie Wade – Baseball
• Thomas Wesley – Baseball
• Nicole Chester – Track and Field
• Glenda Gilcud – Basketball
• Lester Dent – Basketball
• James Toombs – Basketball

Remembering a Legend

Dr. Archie Wade, a remarkable athlete and the first player from Stillman College to join a Major League Baseball farm system, is fondly remembered for his outstanding contributions. As a multi-sport athlete, his impact extended beyond just the field. He was also a trailblazer as the first Black faculty member at the University of Alabama. Unfortunately, Dr. Wade passed away recently at the age of 85, making this honor particularly poignant.

A Tribute to a Coaching Career

Next up on the list is Thomas Wesley, who was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds and enjoyed several years in minor league baseball. After his playing days were over, he shifted gears and transitioned into coaching, leaving his mark at various schools, including Snead State and Alabama A&M. Sadly, Wesley passed away in 2009 at just 51 years of age and will also be honored posthumously.

Track & Field Excellence

Nicole Chester is another star in this amazing lineup. She made history by becoming Stillman College’s first two-time NCAA All-American in Track and Field and qualified four times for the NCAA Division III Women’s Track and Field Championships. Her incredible record at Stillman of 147 feet and 6 inches in the discus throw stands tall as a testament to her outstanding athletic talents.

Basketball Trailblazers

On the basketball side, Stillman College has witnessed phenomenal talent. Glenda Gilcud was the top scorer in women’s basketball, averaging an impressive 33.4 points per game during the 1996-97 season. She continued her scoring prowess with an average of 30.2 points in the following season, setting the bar high for future teams.

Equally impressive is Lester Dent, who became the second member of the 1,000 Point Club in men’s basketball at Stillman. Dent scored a remarkable total of 1,762 points over three seasons, earning All-American honors in 1973. He also took home the NAIA District 27 scoring title in 1974-75, solidifying his place in the college’s basketball history.

James Toombs is yet another basketball legend being honored. He set multiple scoring records during his time in the 1960s, including a jaw-dropping 64 points in a single game, a record that still stands at Alabama-based institutions.

Celebrating Their Legacy

February 8 against Arkansas Baptist College. This event is sure to be a highlight of the week, bringing back memories and celebrating the incredible legacy these athletes have left behind.

Get Your Tickets!

For those eager to attend the Hall of Fame Induction Breakfast, tickets are available for just $35. You can grab yours at GoStillman.com/Tickets. It’s a wonderful opportunity to be part of something special and to pay tribute to these outstanding athletes who have shaped the legacy of Stillman College sports. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate history!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Stillman College Honors Athletic Legends in Hall of Fame Induction
Tuscaloosa Mourns the Loss of Dr. Archie Wade at 85

Additional Resources

• ABC 33/40 News
• Wikipedia: Hall of Fame
• CBS 42 News
• Google Search: Stillman College Athletics Hall of Fame
• WVUA 23 News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Athletic Event
• Tuscaloosa Thread
• Google News: Stillman College hall of fame