Lee University Athletic Director Larry Carpenter was recently honored at the NAIA Awards Banquet which was held in conjunction with the NAIA National Convention in Kansas City.

Carpenter received the NAIA-ADA Athletics Director of the Year and was introduced to the large gathering by Gary Ray, Lee Vice President for Administration. Also on hand to salute Carpenter was the Commissioner of the Southern States Athletic Conference, Dr. Kurt Patberg.

"As I stood before my peers while accepting the reward, I saw so many dedicated and gifted administrators sitting in the audience that it truly humbled me," said Carpenter. "I was proud to be representing Lee University and appreciated Gary Ray being there to present the award. "

I was honored to have my wife Cherri, daughter Brittany and grandson Mac sharing that special night, one that I will always remember," added Carpenter. " The award is a reflection of the dedication and hard work by a wonderful staff and the support given by our administration.

There are more honors coming for the Lee AD. On June20th, he will receive the 2008-2009 NACDA/Under Armour AD of the Year for the Southeast Region of the NAIA at the NACDA Convention in Orlando, Fla.

The honor is bestowed upon four NAIA AD's each year. This is the second time Carpenter has received the award back. He received his first NAIA/NACDA in 1999-2000.