LHU Alumnus Establishes Two Scholarships for Athletics Program He Once Applied For | News, Sports, Jobs

Since 2018, Gordon has also volunteered as a board member for the Lock Haven University Alumni Association, and although he graduated almost 50 years ago, he has remained associated with LHU through many service and philanthropic efforts initiated jointly with his brothers of the Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) fraternity.

Now retired, Gordon wants to make an even bigger impact on the university and athletic programs that are still close to his heart. He does this by establishing two scholarships: The Norm Gordon Track & Field Scholarship and The Norm Gordon Track & Field Endowment.

“I’ve seen firsthand how much financial support means to students at Lock Haven University,” said Gordon. “I really hope that my support of the athletics program will help provide future LHU student-athletes with an experience similar to what I had at The Haven.”

Attracted by the strength of the health and sports program, the size and the beauty of the setting, Gordon’s greatest mentor at LHSC was his coach, Jim Dolan.

PHOTO PROVIDED Norm Gordon attending a track and field meeting in the 1970’s.

Under Dolan’s tutelage, Gordon was named All-Region in Cross Country three times – competing at Nationals all three times – and also earned a track and field trip to Nationals to compete in Steeplechase.

In addition to coaching Gordon as a student athlete, Dolan remained a friend and mentor throughout Gordon’s career.

After earning a master’s degree in athletic training from the University of Virginia (UVA), Gordon began his career in 1975 when he was hired at George Mason University (GMU) as the university’s first-ever physical and running coach. He also served as GMU’s intramural director and assistant cross country coach.

He coached GMU for 24 years and received numerous regional Coach of the Year awards and a 1995 National Coach of the Year award (track). Overall, Gordon has coached more than 100 All Americans, 10 NCAA champions and five Olympians.

He credits much of his professional success to the lessons he learned from Dolan.

“The guidance I received from Coach Dolan, both professionally and personally, was profound,” said Gordon. “Honoring the legacy of Jim Dolan is one of the main reasons I am so passionate about giving back to Lock Haven University.”

“Lock Haven University is a great little environment where students can build impactful relationships that will last a lifetime.” he added. “LHU’s graduates are proof that small colleges produce high-calibre individuals who are primed for great success in all areas of business.”