Excelsior Trustee receives the Pat Tillman Award for

ALBANY, NY, June 17, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gretchen Evans, retired Army Command Sergeant Major and Trustee of Excelsior College, will be presented with the Pat Tillman Award for Service during ESPYS 2022. The event will air live on ABC on Wednesday, July 20 at 8:00 p.m. ET. Named after the former NFL player and US Army Ranger, the award is presented annually to an individual with a strong connection to the sport who has served in a way that reflects their legacy.

Evan’s highly decorated Army career ended after suffering a life-changing injury from a mortar shell blast while on tour in Afghanistan. The injury resulted in a traumatic brain injury, total hearing loss, and other wounds. Getting back on her feet as a veteran, she created Team UNBROKEN, an adaptable racing team made up mostly of veterans who have suffered life-changing injuries, illnesses or trauma and competed in the world’s toughest race: Eco-Challenge Fiji.

“The transition out of the military was rocky. Finding my next chapter, serving nonprofits, telling my story, and staying physically strong and competitive gave me purpose,” said Gretchen Evans, member of the Excelsior College Board of Trustees. “I joined the Excelsior Board of Trustees because half of Excelsior students are military or veterans, and I believe education is one of the most important parts of the transition for veterans. Excelsior students and alumni show the courage and determination that has helped me persevere.”

The Pat Tillman Award for Service is the most recent recognition of Evans’ service as a veteran. In addition to serving on the Excelsior Board of Trustees, Evans has been inducted into the US Army Women’s Hall of Fame and the US Veteran Hall of Fame.

“Gretchen Evans is an inspiration and motivation to everyone she meets. Our Excelsior community looks forward to cheering her on as she receives the Pat Tillman Award,” said David Schejbal, President of Excelsior College….