Sports Corp creates Tom Jernstedt Lifetime Achievement Award
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The Indiana Sports Corp has created a new award in honor of Tom Jernstedt, an administrator whose “distinguished professional career has been dedicated to the advancement of Division I men’s basketball.”
The ISC on Wednesday said the Tom Jernstedt Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented annually to individuals who exemplify the leadership and service demonstrated by Jernstedt during his 38-year tenure at the NCAA.
Jernstedt joined the NCAA in 1972, and the ISC said he worked to transform the Division I Men’s Basketball Championship into the event it is today. He served as executive vice president and oversaw the daily operations of March Madness, the expansion of participating teams from 25 to 68 and the selection of larger sites for the Final Four games.
“The community has felt a monumental impact from the contributions of Tom Jernstedt, and we’ve heard from many that want to keep honoring his legacy,” said Jim Morris, Indiana Sports Corp life member and vice chairman of Pacers Sports & Entertainment. “We feel this award will continue to recognize those who represent the character of Tom Jernstedt as a thoughtful, caring, steadfast leader and a steward of the game.”
To be eligible for the award, nominees must have dedicated a significant time in their career working in collegiate athletics or in a capacity that supports the mission of the NCAA.
The inaugural award recipients will be honored at the 2023 Men’s Final Four in Houston on April 3.