NORMAL, Ill. – In recognition of their support of the Weisbecker Athletic Fund and Illinois State Athletics, Bob and JoEllen Bahnsen have been named the recipients of 2023 Joseph F. Warner Golden Redbird Award. The award was presented during the first half of the men's basketball game against Southern Illinois on January 6.
The Joseph F. Warner Golden Redbird Award is the highest honor bestowed to a donor by the Illinois State Athletics Department and recognizes individuals for their dedication and loyal support of the Weisbecker Athletic Fund through exemplary service, leadership, and financial support. The honor was renamed in 2003 after the death of Joe, a WAF and Twin Cities leader, who perished in a plane crash.
"Illinois State Athletics is honored to present the 2023 Joseph F. Warner Golden Redbird Award to Bob and JoEllen Bahnsen," Illinois State Interim Director of Athletics Dr. Jeri Beggs stated. "They are incredibly generous people, who have been committed to the longevity and health of Illinois State University for multiple decades. The depth of their commitment is inspiring and sets a timeless benchmark for our community."
Bob and JoEllen Bahnsen have been supporters of Illinois State Athletics for almost 30 years and are long time season ticket holders of men's and women's basketball, football, and volleyball. They are also members of the 1857 Society and the President's Circle since 2015, both of which are distinguished giving societies at Illinois State University.
JoEllen graduated from ISU with an MBA in 1997 and worked as a Senior Associate Comptroller for the University before retiring. She currently serves on the Ironwood Homeowners Association and as Secretary of the ISUAA organization. Bob graduated from ISU with his MBA in 1995 and worked as an Energy Processer and Controller Manager for GROWMARK before retirement. He is a current member of the Bloomington Kiwanis Club, which is an organization that helps shelter the homeless, feed the hungry, and much more.
For more information about the Weisbecker Athletic Fund or to donate, visit WeisbeckerAthleticFund.com.
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