Alumnus Ethan Kimble (‘21) has been named one of the recipients of the 2022 David D. Henry Award.

Given annually by the Wayne State University Alumni Association, the award was established in 1948 to honor Wayne State University's third president. It recognizes two recent graduates who have made outstanding contributions to the university in the areas of leadership and service while maintaining high scholarship during their studies. Recipients receive a $350 stipend, an elegant recognition plaque, and the honor of being identified as a preeminent university student role model.

"I am humbled and honored to be a recipient of this award," said Kimble. "I do a lot behind the scenes. I don't expect any recognition, and now, I'm being rewarded for my efforts. It was surprising to find out I’m part of Wayne State history now."

Kimble earned his bachelor's in sport management with a minor in sport coaching from the College of Education and a minor in business administration from the Mike Ilitch School of Business. He served as a sport management peer mentor, intern for the Detroit Police Athletic League and Atlanta Hawks, and recruiting officer and vice president of the Sport and Entertainment Business Association as well as operations manager at the Mort Harris Recreation and Fitness Center. Since May 2020, Kimble has supported the food distribution efforts of his church, while lifting members' spirits with music. He said it is important for him to give back.

"This is bigger than me," said Kimble. "As a man of faith, service is a large part of my foundation. I am committed to being a change agent, an encourager, and a light and an example for others to follow."

Kimble is pursuing a master's in sports administration at Wayne State. His goal is to become head of basketball operations for a National Basketball Association or NCAA team. While basketball is his first choice, he is open to serving in a similar role for a football, baseball or hockey team. He said the sports scene in Detroit was a major consideration when he was choosing a university.

"I chose Wayne State because I have a lot of family ties here, so the support was strong," he said. "I also preferred to commute, and the university's location allowed me to do that. Most importantly, all four professional sports teams are in the heart of Detroit, and that makes a world of possibilities available to me."