Note: The following appears in the Syracuse football gameday program.
Nine years ago, Margaret Segars Bond (‘84) and her late husband, Steve Bond (‘80), established the Bond Distinguished Athletes Award. The award was established to honor former Clemson student-athletes who exemplify great character, citizenship and service in their life after college. It is symbolized by a customized gold ring.
To qualify, candidates must have lettered in a sport, have been graduated 10+ years and have given back by spreading their Tiger spirit to Clemson University and their community.
“I’m so thankful for my late husband Steve’s innovative idea to create the Bond Distinguished Athletes Award,” said Margaret. “It was his way of giving back to Clemson. What an amazing journey this has been for me to carry on his legacy through this award. It has not only added value to my life, but also to Clemson University and Clemson Athletics.”
Past winners include former Clemson University Presidents Phil Prince and Jim Barker, Ambassador David Wilkins, noted physicians Dr. Randy Smith and Dr. Jim Sutherland, the Honorable Judge Bobby Conrad, Lawyer Jimmy Addison and business leaders Tom Chapman and Carolyn Creel.
Cecil O. Huey Jr., the former NCAA Faculty Representative and Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering, joins them on the list of noted recipients. He is being honored at the Syracuse game and will receive a custom-designed gold ring. His name will be inscribed on a glass plaque prominently displayed in the Nieri Family Student-Athlete Enrichment Center.
“Cecil Huey embodies the qualities Steve and I set out to recognize and honor,” added Margaret. “His exemplary character and love for Clemson University, family and community make him the perfect choice for this award. Steve would totally agree with my decision to name him the recipient of the 2022 award.”
Huey graduated in 1961 from Anderson Boys High School, where he excelled in track & field under Head Coach Howard Bagwell. Huey was voted team co-captain and set three state records in the 440-yard dash, medley relay anchor and mile relay anchor.
Huey entered Clemson in 1961 on a track & field scholarship, graduated in 1965 with a degree in mechanical engineering and earned his master’s degree in the same discipline in 1968. He later earned his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering in 1973.
He continued his success on the track by establishing school records in the 440-yard dash and mile relay. Huey…