‘True Blue Sycamore’ Gives $3.8M

Image of Michael Simmons in 2012 courtesy of Indiana State University.

A 1964 Indiana State University graduate has left $3.8 million to the school to support student activities. The gift is from Michael Simmons, who died in February and is credited with co-founding the school’s tradition on Homecoming weekend, the Sycamore Tricycle Derby. ISU’s Activity Center bears Simmons’ name.

An annual, on-campus tandem bike race spurred by Simmons will take place Saturday in Terre Haute and the school is planning a moment of silence for him at the event.

President Dan Bradley says "impacting our students was at the heart of everything Michael did for Indiana State, including his service as a volunteer leader for numerous years. Although he humbly accepted the honors that came his way, his actions were never about drawing attention to himself. They were always about the effect they would have on shaping or transforming our students."

Indiana State University Alumni Association Executive Director Rex Kendall says "Michael Simmons was a True Blue Sycamore. Michael was passionate about providing opportunities for students to participate in out-of-classroom experiences. His generous donation to build the Michael Simmons Student Activities Center — home of the Tricycle Derby and the Tandem Race — will ensure students, now and long into the future, continue to gain valuable team-building and leadership opportunities."

In 2013, the Michael Simmons Student Activity Endowment was launched. It was designed to boost student participation in extracurricular, team-based programs.

You can connect to more about Simmons and the gift by clicking here.