Skidmore College Athletics Hall of Fame
Jim Ricker (Hamilton '68) and Joyce Benedict Ricker '69 are arguably the "Most Valuable Parents" in the history of Skidmore Athletics. Not only did they enthusiastically support sons Jason '91, Justin '96, and Evan '97 in their college athletics careers, the Rickers spearheaded a successful campaign to save men's hockey from budget cuts undertaken by the College in 2003. Rallying hockey alumni and parents, they helped raise an unprecedented amount of financial support for athletics in just two months and graciously partnered the College administration to revive the Friends of Skidmore Athletics initiative and significantly expand its scope.
As co-chairs of FOSA from its inception in 2003 to 2007, the Rickers helped promote the establishment of the Skidmore Athletics Hall of Fame (donated by Lee Peyser '81 and Cathy Peyser) in the Sports and Recreation Center, the Annual Friends of Skidmore Athletics Benefit and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Thoroughbred Cup Golf and Tennis Tournament. In 2007, they were presented with the FOSA MVP Award in recognition of their commitment to enhance the Skidmore athletic experience and promote excellence across all programs. This year, Jim is a FOSA representative on the Athletics Committee on Facilities (ACF), a body that helps ensure the growth and enhancement of athletic facilities needed to attract top-notch student athletes to the College. Joyce is chair of nominating on the Alumni Association Board of Directors.
