St. Mary’s College of Maryland has announced its Athletics Hall of Fame Legends Class of 2024, which will honor two distinguished figures in the school’s sports history and a president who significantly shaped its athletic landscape. This year’s inductees include Dr. Jeffrey Byrd and Scott Devine, and a special recognition will be awarded to President Tuajuanda C. Jordan for her decade-long contributions.
Crystal Gibson, Director of Athletics and Recreation, expressed immense pride in this year’s class, noting their vital role in enhancing the visibility and performance of the Seahawks’ athletic programs. “This class is composed of individuals who passionately worked to elevate the Seahawk athletic programs to a place of visibility we are still benefiting from to this day,” Gibson stated.
The induction ceremony is scheduled for October 18, during the 2024 Hawktoberfest — the College’s homecoming celebrations. The honorees will also be recognized at a Seahawks volleyball match in the Michael P. O’Brien Athletics & Recreation Center Arena.
A notable shift this year is the return of the Hall of Fame ceremony to an annual event, a tradition that had changed in 2000 when the event moved to a biennial schedule. The ceremony was originally held annually from its inception in 1990 until 2000.
This year’s standout inductees have left significant marks on the college’s athletic department. President Jordan, during her tenure, was instrumental in expanding staff positions and varsity sport offerings to 23, as well as spearheading facilities upgrades and transitioning the college into the United East Conference from the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference.
Scott Devine, who led the Seahawks as the Director of Athletics & Recreation from 2000 to 2020, oversaw substantial growth within the department. He was pivotal in the creation of the Seahawk logo and wordmark and introduced four varsity sports including men’s and women’s cross country and rowing.
Dr. Jeffrey Byrd served as the Faculty Athletics Representative for 17 years and also as an assistant women’s basketball coach. His dedication extended beyond his formal roles, as he was an ardent supporter of all Seahawk athletics.
“We can’t wait to welcome these Seahawks as well as their families and friends back to the College in October to celebrate all their tremendous contributions,” added Gibson.
For more detailed information about the inductees, please contact Nairem Moran, director of athletic communications, at 240-895-4482 or nmoran@smcm.edu.
