Teachers Credit Union (TCU) presented the coveted W.B. Hawkins Award, named in honor of TCU’s President and CEO from 1962-1987, to two high school basketball players at the conclusion of the 58th annual TCU Bi-County Tournament this evening. The TCU Bi-County Tournament is one of the area’s oldest sports traditions, with eight boys and girls varsity teams squaring off in their quest for the title. In addition to the excitement on the court, TCU annually presents the W.B. Hawkins Award and a $1,000 scholarship to the school of the winning boys and girls varsity athlete who exemplifies excellence in academics and athletics, as well as makes positive contributions to the community.
TCU is pleased to announce that the 2023 W.B. Hawkins Award winners are Shane Shuman, from Culver Community and Emma Dunlap, from Argos Jr.-Sr. High School. Both recipients have excelled in their high school careers and exemplify the spirit of the award.
“The TCU Bi-County Tournament has become an institution in our area that provides a wonderful way to celebrate our local student athletes and the communities that support them,” said Jason M. Osterhage, president & CEO of TCU. “We’re honored to recognize this year’s winners of the W.B. Hawkins Award, as our two recipients truly embody the qualities that the award represents. Education and community service are at the core of TCU’s mission, and we’re also pleased to have the opportunity to provide support to each winner’s school scholarship fund through this award.”
Shuman is a leader both on the court and in the classroom. He leads by example; never makes excuses and never takes a day off. Not only is he a three-year basketball varsity letter winner and two-time All-State football player, but he also maintains a 3.8 GPA. Shuman also stays busy with extra-curricular activities like the Volunteer Services Club, Spanish Club, and Art Club. His commitments extend into the community as well, having volunteered time with the Salvation Army and the Historical Society, as well as participated in community clean-ups and Christmas food drives.
Dunlap is soft-spoken and laid back, until she steps onto the court or the field, that is. Being competitive while playing with impeccable sportsmanship runs in her family, as she follows in her sisters’ footsteps of excelling as dual-sport athletes. Dunlap is a leader on the team both in games and during practice. She’s always the first to step up and get in line for drills, pick up a fallen teammate, or boost team morale. Dunlap is a leader away from the court as well, as a member of the National Honor Society, Business Professionals of America, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes to name a few. In addition, she serves her community many ways, including volunteering with the Feed My Starving Children program, the Lions Club, and the American Legion.