Photos courtesy of Shannen Hardy.

RINDGE, N.H. (11/5/24) - The Franklin Pierce University Department of Athletics celebrated its rich history over the weekend with the official induction of the 2024 Hall of Fame class during a memorable ceremony on Friday night.  

The event included in-person and virtual appearances from some of the most impactful Ravens to ever represent Franklin Pierce. Hall of Famers Cindy Arman, who served as MC, Jayson King, David Chadbourne, and Steve Hancock all appeared via video to celebrate this year's distinguished class. 

University President Dr. Peter Eden shared his excitement to be part of the "DII Powerhouse" and his commitment to furthering campus improvements, particularly within athletics. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Co-Chair, expressed gratitude for the past achievements of those honored, sharing that their successes laid the foundation for the current student-athlete experience at Franklin Pierce. 

The evening was filled with heartfelt stories and nostalgia that truly captured the spirit of Franklin Pierce University. Honoring athletes and teams from the late 1980s through the 2010s highlighted the university's enduring values and community. 

The first inductee of the night was Mike Chambers from the class of 2006, a standout member of the baseball program. Chambers still stands today as the baseball program's all-time leader in doubles and owns the school's single season doubles record. After graduating, Chambers was selected by the Boston Red Sox in the 32nd round, becoming the 10th draft pick in program history. In his emotional speech, Chambers reflected on his journey from a small freshman to a Franklin Pierce Hall of Fame inductee, expressing deep gratitude to the mentors, friends, and family who believed in him, supported his dreams, and helped shape his life and career.  

The second inductee of the night was Art Luptowski, long time basketball coach from 1989-1999. Luptowski took the program to four NCAA appearances and compiled over 190 wins. During his speech,  "Artie" acknowledged how his connection and time at Franklin Pierce led to an unexpected path in the NBA, which he credits as a life-changing outcome of his time at the university. Reflecting on the challenges and successes of competing in the NECC—a powerhouse conference at the time—Luptowski expressed gratitude for the strong players and supportive staff, especially Dave Chadbourne, who demonstrated remarkable resilience. Returning to Franklin Pierce, Luptowski is inspired by the university's current leadership and is eager to contribute to the program's resurgence. 

The next inductee was Camden Morrison, class of 2018. As the first women golfer at Franklin Pierce, Morrison finished her career as the best golfer in FPU history. She took multiple trips to the NCAA national championship and earned NE10 Conference Women's Player of the Year honors twice. In her speech, Morrison reflects on the humbling experience, emphasizing how golf, while seemingly an individual sport, depends on a "village" of supporters. Camden especially acknowledged her mother, her teammates, her coach, Tyler Bishop, and Big Rob. She honored how each of them impacted her and the support and lessons they all taught her.  

Up next, Jewel White, Class of 2012, was inducted. White was a two-time All-American on the women's basketball team. White is one of only four players in program history to score 1,000 points and grab 1,000 rebounds in her career. Jewel White was unable to join us in person for the ceremony as she welcomes a new member to her family, but we were still able to hear a few words from her. White thanked Franklin Pierce for acknowledging her contributions to the women's basketball program as well as those who supported her throughout her career: Coach Hancock, Swasey and "the amazing Cindy."  

Finally, in monumental fashion, FPU athletics inducted the 1996 and 1997 women's soccer teams. These teams won back-to-back national championships and were home to some of the best female soccer players in school history including the program's all-time leading scorer, Pauliina Miettinen. At the ceremony, we were able to hear from members of the team as well as all their supporters that hosted them and provided support for them all throughout their time as athletes at Franklin Pierce. Miettinen made a surprise appearance from Finland and spoke on behalf of both teams. She reflected on the unity, resilience, and support that defined her Franklin Pierce experience, expressing deep gratitude for her coaches, teammates, and the community that stood them. She urged everyone in the audience to embrace teamwork and compassion, just as her team did, to face life's challenges together.  

The evening celebrated the Ravens' rich legacy and acknowledged the unwavering support of Franklin Pierce's community. This special event commemorated the achievements and contributions of the inductees and reinforced the core values that continue to drive FPU Athletics forward.  

A full recording of the event can be accessed here and photos from the event can be found here.