Hall of Fame Ceremony

The Eastern Michigan University Department of Athletics officially inducted six into the E-Club Athletic Hall of Fame at a ceremony held inside the George Gervin GameAbove Center September 25, 2026.

The 50th annual ceremony celebrated six former student-athletes whose achievements helped shape their programs and the university they represented. The evening also honored Ken Bruchanski with the Ron Oestrike Distinguished Service Award, recognizing more than five decades of leadership, philanthropy and service to Eastern Michigan.

Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Inductees

Class of 2026 Inductees

Ceremony Video

Madeleine Batson (Pilchard)

Richard A. "Butch" Palmer

Jussi Rautiainen

Ashley "A-Rod" Rodrigues

Howard Simmons

Susan R. Tomanek

2026 Ron Oestrike Distinguished Service Award

Ken Bruchanski

Graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 1975 with a degree in Accounting, earning summa cum laude honors. Member of the EMU Baseball Team from 1973–75 and co-captain of the historic 1975 College World Series team. Helped lead the Hurons to the 1975 Mid-American Conference Championship, NCAA Mid-East Regional Championship, and the program's first College World Series appearance. EMU’s first-ever Academic All-American earning the honor twice and the first EMU student-athlete to receive an NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship which he used to get his master’s degree from Purdue University. Signed a professional contract with the Detroit Tigers following his collegiate career before becoming a Certified Public Accountant and Chief Financial Officer. Inducted into the EMU E-Club Athletic Hall of Fame in 1990. Lifetime member of the E-Club Letterwinners Alumni Chapter. Served as a key leader in the growth and success of the E-Club Letterwinners Alumni Chapter, helping strengthen alumni engagement and support for EMU Athletics. Served the EMU Foundation Board of Trustee’s from 2002-2007 and as treasurer from 2003-2007. Instrumental in preserving and celebrating the legacy of EMU Baseball, including leading efforts to recognize the 50th Anniversary of the 1975 College World Series team and launching a matching gift challenge to benefit the program. Has dedicated more than 50 years of his time, leadership, mentorship, and philanthropy to advancing Eastern Michigan University and supporting generations of EMU student-athletes.

 

Press Release and full video: E-Club Hall of Fame Class of 2026: A Legacy of Excellence, Gratitude and Eastern Pride


Visit the Athletic Hall of Fame or the Hall of Fame Nomination Form.