Rick Byrd Award Recipient
Rick Byrd
Christ-centered leadership is about humility, integrity and a life-long pursuit of excellence – values embodied by Coach Rick Byrd throughout his legendary coaching career and beyond.
From 1986 – 2019, Coach Byrd led the Bruins from a small NAIA program to a nationally recognized Division I team, all while remaining grounded in his core values: humility, respect for the game and a team-first mentality.
Coach Byrd’s philosophy remains the gold standard for Belmont Athletics and carries important lessons far beyond the court. The Rick Byrd Award honors leaders who embody these values and contribute to Belmont’s mission to develop Christ-centered leaders of purpose and character. We celebrate the recipients’ unwavering dedication to humility, respect and excellence in their work, continuing the lasting impact of Coach Byrd’s leadership in our community and beyond.
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2024: Vince Gill & Amy Grant
As two of the most influential figures in music, Vince Gill and Amy Grant have used their exceptional talents and generous spirits to make a lasting impact on both the music industry and their community. Vince, with 18 CMA Awards, 22 Grammy Awards, and induction into the Music Hall of Fame, has consistently used his platform to support causes that uplift vulnerable populations, including Make-A-Wish Foundation to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Amy, equally celebrated for her musical legacy, with 6 Grammy Awards and 26 Dove Awards, has invested in leadership programs for under-resourced young people through initiatives like the Barefoot Republic Camp.
Vince and Amy’s dedication to serving others and uplifting their communities perfectly embodies Coach Rick Byrd’s values of humility and excellence. Vince and Amy’s leadership reminds us to use our talents and resources to create opportunities for those who need them most. We are deeply grateful for their support of Belmont and for their example of Christ-centered leadership.
2023: Al Andrews
As the Founder and as the Founder and Executive Director of Porter’s Call, Al Andrews has dedicated himself to reducing financial barriers and providing a safe, confidential space for recording artists to thrive creatively. His generosity and commitment to the well-being of others have made a lasting impact on emerging artists at Belmont, in Nashville’s music industry, and in the broader community.
Al’s work, inspired by the Benedictine tradition of offering refuge to the weary traveler, perfectly reflects the same spirit of selflessness and love that Coach Byrd championed throughout his career. Al’s leadership reminds us that true excellence – that which is rooted in a deep care for others – is the winning way.
2022 (Inaugural Year) Former Governor Bill and Crissy Haslam
Throughout their careers in public service, Former Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam and former First Lady Crissy Haslam have championed the values that Coach Byrd instilled in Belmont Athletics: humility, integrity, and a deep commitment to making a positive difference in the world. From education reform to community service, the Haslams used their platform to improve the lives of others, with Gov. Haslam’s leadership earning Tennessee national recognition in areas like education and economic development, and Crissy Haslam championing children’s causes and parent engagement in education.
Their work reflects the heart of Coach Byrd’s philosophy—doing things the right way and leading with Christ-centered character.