IADA Hall of Fame

During his span of 25 years as Athletic Director, Don helped to change the Nashville Community High School athletic program from a one sport school to an athletic program that has held a conference championship in each of the 11 sports offered. The determination to enact comprehensive change was inspired by the community by crystallized through Don's commitment to athletic achievement and the student athlete's educational opportunities. As a testament to Don Hawkin's selection to the Hall of Fame, a fellow retired athletic director emphatically shared, "the easiest way i can communicate this [Don's induction] to you and the selection commitee is to state the truth: Don Hawkin's was the best athletic director that I have ever been associated with." To have such a generous recommendation is an honor in and of itself. However, as a member and leader in the IHSA-Legislative commission and Finance Ad Hoc Committee-and a member and leader of the Illinois Coaches Association, Southern Illinois Coaches Association and as River to River Conference Athletic Directors Chairman, Don Hawkins has proven himself as the champion of the student athlete and the advocate for the role of the athletic director in setting the tone of an athletic program. It was no surprise to those around him when Don was chosen as IADA Class A Athletic Director of the Year, Athletic Director of the Decade by Southern Illinois Officals Association, and chosen as a Finalist for National Athletic Director of the year by the National High School Athletic Coaches Association. Don has dedicated his energy, his time, and his life to the Nashville Community and he has remained humble and noble in his servitude. He has a love and respect for athletics that is unparalleled. As one colleague revealed that, "First and foremost, coaches and student athletes were held to a rigid standard for sportsmanship and competitive preparation..he set a model for the treatment of opposing teams and officals..and his role in the development of young coaches and young athletic officals was notable." Such a dedication to every aspect of the athletic domain is what has earned Don Hawkins his selection as a member of the Illinois Athletic Directors' Association Hall of Fame.