Dave Gavitt

Dave Gavitt, when this institution awarded you an honorary degree in 1989, we recognized "your fidelity to Providence College." Today, we affirm that our mutual bonds of admiration, respect and friendship have been immeasurably strengthened in the eighteen years since.

You instill the ideals of excellence, integrity, and sportsmanship in every professional task you undertake. From your earliest years coaching at Providence College to appointment as coach of the U.S. Olympic Team; from founding the BIG EAST Conference to serving as president of the NCAA Foundation; from posts as chief executive officer of the Boston Celtics to chairman of the board for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame - at each opportunity your gifted leadership and inspiring vision left an indelible mark of success.

While your national reputation was resoundingly confirmed by your recent induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame, you have always reserved a special place for Providence College in your heart and life. You have been a steadfast friend to five Providence College presidents, always advancing the best interests of the College. Even as success and fame prompted many to seek your business acumen and wise counsel, you continued to generously offer us the best of your time and talents.

For these reasons, Father Chairman and Father President, the Corporation of Providence College presents Dave Gavitt as one deemed worthy to receive the Veritas Medal and requests you to confer upon him this highest award the College can bestow in recognition of outstanding devotion to Providence College and a lifetime of achievement that reflects our most treasured values.