Since 1955, Phi Delta Theta International Fraternity has presented the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award to the Major League Baseball player who best exemplifies the spirit and character of Lou Gehrig, both on and off the field. Created to memorialize beloved Phi Delta Theta member Lou Gehrig following his death from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), the award is housed in the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, New York. Through the growing impact of the award, Phi Delta Theta recognizes some of the best men in baseball while positively impacting the ALS community.
To further Lou Gehrig’s legacy and his storied baseball career that began at the collegiate level at Columbia University, Phi Delta Theta, in partnership with the Live Like Lou Foundation, introduced the Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team in 2024 to annually recognize the giving character and community impact of collegiate baseball players.
Phi Delta Theta and the Live Like Lou Foundation are proud to announce the 2025 Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team. Honorees were nominated by their schools, and the team was selected based on outstanding achievements in three key areas:
- Demonstrating a substantial commitment to their community through service and philanthropy.
- Embodying the generous spirit and character of Lou Gehrig.
- Making remarkable contributions to the success of their respective teams.
Following the selection of the team, the player who garnered the highest number of votes by the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award Voting Committee was named Captain and has the opportunity to collaborate with Phi Delta Theta and the Live Like Lou Foundation to organize an on-field ceremony dedicated to honoring him and contributing $4,000 to support a family affected by ALS in the local community.
The 2025 Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team
Cole Fellows – Columbia University
Cole Fellows has been a standout player on the baseball field and a dedicated community leader. A vital contributor to the 2024 Ivy League championship season, Cole’s performance earned him a spot on the All-Ivy honorable mention team as an outfielder. In league play, he posted a remarkable .348 batting average, driving in eighteen runs and registering an impressive OPS of 1.006. For the season, Cole batted .305 with thirty-one RBIs, a .508 slugging percentage, and a .374 on-base percentage. As the team’s everyday left fielder, he was not only a consistent force offensively but also a reliable presence defensively, committing just one error all season.
Off the field, Cole’s commitment to making a difference is equally remarkable. Inspired by personal experiences with Alzheimer’s disease in his family, Cole has become deeply involved in supporting the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. His family’s journey through the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s has fueled his passion for raising awareness and funds for research and support. Through his work with the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and by leveraging the tight-knit community among student-athletes at Columbia, Cole has helped to expand the walk’s reach, encouraging fellow athletes to join in the fight against the disease.
Cole and his younger brother, Chase, have taken their advocacy online, creating a platform at www.alzcoalition.org. This website serves as a space to raise awareness and gather donations, aiming to unite people from all walks of life in the shared mission of ending Alzheimer’s. For Cole, supporting the Alzheimer’s community is more than just charity—it’s a deeply personal cause, one that allows him to honor his family’s history while helping others affected by the disease.
“Talking to Cole makes you feel as if you’re the only person in the room. He embodies the true meaning of selflessness, exemplified by his unwavering commitment to his teammates and community. Cole leads by example in everything he does, approaching life with a sense of gratitude and humility.”
Joe Sheets, Columbia University 2025 team captain and 2024 Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team honorable mention
As Captain of the Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team, Cole will be recognized before the team’s April 6 game against Cornell University and will collaborate with Phi Delta Theta and the Live Like Lou Foundation to support a family affected by ALS in the local community.
Jacob Anderson – Michigan State University
Jacob Anderson has demonstrated remarkable success both on the baseball field and within his community, establishing himself as a dedicated and compassionate leader. As a key member of the baseball team, Jacob played an important role last season as the fifth infielder, finishing with a .255 batting average. This season, he will be stepping into the starting role at third base, where his skills, leadership, and determination will be vital to the team’s success.
Off the field, Jacob’s involvement in the community is equally impressive. He serves as the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Representative for the baseball team, actively participating in various initiatives aimed at giving back to others. Jacob has contributed to events like Teams for Toys, the Student Athlete Food Drive, and the Student Athlete Career Mixer, all of which serve to support both the local community and his fellow student-athletes.
Jacob’s leadership shines through in his work with organizations that support individuals with special needs. Through the baseball team, he has played a pivotal role in helping out with the Miracle League of Mid-Michigan, where he assists special needs youth as their ‘buddy’ during games on an adaptive rubberized surface. Additionally, Jacob has been involved with the Beautiful Lives Project, helping host a clinic for special needs youth, and with Team Impact, where the team adopted a six-year-old boy battling cancer, offering him love and support through a difficult journey.
Jacob is also a member of Athletes in Action on campus, participating in their Operation Christmas Child initiative, where he helps pack and send shoeboxes with Christmas gifts to children in need around the world. Looking ahead, Jacob plans to contribute to the City Rescue Mission, where he will assist in feeding and housing homeless individuals in the East Lansing area.
“Jacob Anderson is the consummate student-athlete who represents our athletics department in the most incredible manner on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. He carries a 3.54 GPA and will graduate with a degree in kinesiology. He has a genuine desire to make his community a better place and consistently puts others ahead of himself while realizing the platform he has to impact those in need.”
Melissa Tallant, Academic Coordinator, Michigan State
Javier Cardoso – Point Park University
Javier Cardoso has proven to be an exceptional player and leader for Point Park University, both on the baseball field and within his community. As the team’s ace pitcher for the past three years, Javier has been an invaluable asset, pitching in the NAIA National Tournament each season. Under his leadership, the Point Park University baseball team has been nationally ranked every year. His performance on the mound speaks for itself, earning him the All-Conference Pitcher Award for both the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Javier led the team in innings pitched, showcasing his versatility by serving not only as a starter but also as a reliever on short rest whenever the team needed him most.
Off the field, Javier’s leadership extends beyond the diamond. As a returning senior captain, he has taken charge of the team’s community outreach efforts for the past three years. Javier’s commitment to making a positive impact is evident through the food drives he has organized to feed the homeless in the city and his management of the Toys for Tots program, a yearly initiative that brings joy to children during the holiday season. His dedication to serving others is a testament to his strong character and desire to give back to the community that has supported him throughout his journey.
Javier’s ability to balance his responsibilities as a student-athlete with his leadership roles speaks to his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. He has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches alike, not only for his skills on the field but for his wisdom, integrity, and compassion off the field. Javier has the rare ability to make tough decisions under pressure, always remaining composed in the face of adversity. He challenges those around him to be their best while equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.
“I have known Javier for five years and judge him to be an exceptional student-athlete. I have had many opportunities to observe his performance both on and off the field. He continually maintains his integrity while attending to the many responsibilities in front of him. You only have to speak with him for a short period of time to realize his commitment to success. His wisdom in both athletics and life were valuable to his teammates and our team as a whole both on and off the field. Also, Javier is a man of strong conviction, and he has a wonderful sense of humor. He is intense but controlled in competition yet has a gentle and warm spirit in conversation. There will never be a question about the importance of his love for his family, friends, and the commitment to the duties that he serves.”
Loren Torres, Point Park Head Baseball Coach
Bobby Dingell – DeSales University
Bobby Dingell has proven himself both as an outstanding baseball player and a dedicated community leader. As a junior outfielder for the Bulldogs, Bobby had an impressive season, hitting .333 and showcasing his ability to contribute to the team in key moments. His on-field success was matched by his leadership off the field, where he served as the baseball team’s representative on the Student Athlete Advisory Committee and was selected as one of two athletes from DeSales Athletics to attend the prestigious NCAA Student Athlete Leadership Forum.
Bobby’s community involvement is extensive and speaks to his commitment to making a positive impact. He actively volunteers with Best Buddies, a nonprofit that promotes inclusivity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In October, Bobby launched the school’s first-ever pickleball tournament to raise funds for Best Buddies, further demonstrating his dedication to both service and leadership.
During his time at DeSales, Bobby has held significant leadership positions, serving as class president in his freshman and sophomore years, and is now the executive president of the Student Government Association (SGA). He kicked off the school year by hosting an outdoor movie night to promote Teenage Mental Health Awareness. The event was not only a success in raising awareness but also served as a fundraiser for Colleges Against Cancer, a program of the American Cancer Society.
Bobby also organized a school-wide donation drive, collecting school supplies for St. John Vianney through the baseball program, showcasing his dedication to giving back. Each year, Bobby volunteers with the Lehigh Valley Miracle League, and this past summer, he took the team’s batboy to his confirmation, where Bobby served as his confirmation sponsor, further deepening his commitment to mentorship and community service.
In addition to his contributions to the community, Bobby’s character on the field was recognized when he was awarded the 2024 Drew Steig Memorial Award in the Potomac League. This prestigious honor is given to a player who embodies the qualities of leadership, teamwork, and integrity, all values Bobby consistently demonstrates. His stats for the summer league reflect his contributions, as he posted a .333 batting average with a .484 on-base percentage, adding to his impressive list of accomplishments.
“Bobby Dingell is a class act. Being executive president, I know that there is a good workload that comes with it. Even with that workload, he is always the first to show up and one of the last to leave. He always finds time to help others off the field as well as tutor some of his teammates. Bobby is a big part of this ballclub and always puts others before himself.”
Tim Neiman, DeSalles Head Baseball Coach
Alex Fitz-Hugh – Hampden-Sydney College
Alex Fitz-Hugh’s success on the baseball field and within his community exemplifies his leadership, dedication, and commitment to making a difference. As a key player in the bullpen, Alex emerged as a standout performer for his team despite a challenging season. With thirteen appearances, he posted a 3.32 ERA, pitched 19.0 innings, and surrendered just eight hits, while striking out twenty-one batters and recording four saves. His leadership and consistency quickly made him the leader of the pitching staff.
Off the field, Alex’s impact extends far beyond the baseball diamond. He has shown exceptional leadership and service across multiple areas of campus life. As the president of the Minority Student Union, Alex serves as the face of the organization, organizing events and fostering an inclusive environment for all members. His role as a resident advisor is another testament to his leadership, as he creates a safe and supportive space for his fellow students and serves as a bridge between students and faculty.
Alex is also deeply committed to mentorship through the Brother 4 Brother program, where he helps guide and empower his peers. He plays an active role as a mentor in the B4B Elite Eagles program, working with students in the Prince Edward County School system to develop life skills and make positive impacts on their futures. Additionally, he serves as a member of The President’s Men, representing the college at special events, and as a student orientation leader, helping new students transition to campus life.
Further demonstrating his commitment to the Hampden-Sydney community, Alex serves as a member of the Intercultural Affairs Committee, working to foster an inclusive campus culture. As an Interfraternity Council member, he plays a role in shaping campus life through fraternity and social organization events. He also contributes to the college’s intramural sports program, organizing and overseeing events, and works as a student assistant in the athletic training room, ensuring athletes have the necessary tools for success.
As the captain of the baseball team, Alex bridges communication between players and coaches, keeping the team focused and united. His leadership both on and off the field makes him a true asset to Hampden-Sydney College and a powerful example of what it means to lead with purpose and serve with dedication.
“The mission of Hampden-Sydney, where I serve as president, is ‘to form good men and good citizens,’ a mission we have been pursuing since 1775. The best part of my job is to see Hampden-Sydney students live into this mission and grow in competence, character, and leadership ability. It has been especially gratifying to get to know Alex Fitz-Hugh and to watch him grow in all of these ways. Alex is a deeply engaged student who puts others before self, filling significant leadership roles and making meaningful contributions across our campus and local community while always modeling for his peers what it means to be a good man and good citizen. Respected for his talents as a baseball player, Alex is also admired for his winning personality, which encourages his fellow students to be the best version of themselves. Hampden-Sydney is a better college because Alex Fitz-Hugh is a student and athlete here. Lou Gehrig was an outstanding but remarkably humble baseball player and a man of great character. Alex embodies these same values. I’m grateful for this opportunity to recommend him enthusiastically and without reservation for the honor of joining the Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team.”
Dr. Larry Stimpert, President of Hampden-Sydney College
Alex Levesque – William Peace University
Alex Levesque is a standout player both on the baseball field and in his community. Known for his leadership and commitment to helping others, Alex is deeply involved with the DPC Baseball Academy in Wake County, North Carolina, where he works closely with youth players, helping them develop their skills and passion for the game. His involvement extends beyond coaching; Alex also plays an active role with his teammates, serving as a tutor in accounting and finance, ensuring his fellow Pacers excel academically.
Throughout his time with the Pacers Baseball program, Alex has demonstrated a strong dedication to community service. He volunteers with several organizations, including the Miracle League, Boys and Girls Club, Ronald McDonald House, the Salvation Army, and Team Impact. Every spring, Alex participates in Vs Cancer, raising funds and awareness for pediatric brain tumors, showing his commitment to giving back to those in need.
On the field, Alex’s performance has been nothing short of impressive. Selected as an All-Conference USA South performer, he batted an impressive .349 with twenty RBIs. His offensive stats placed him among the top twenty-five players in the USA South for batting average, slugging percentage (.482), on-base percentage (.455), and combined on-base plus slugging percentage (.937). Alex also excelled defensively behind the plate, allowing only fifteen stolen bases over the course of the season, showcasing his skill and leadership as a catcher.
Alex Levesque’s combination of athletic achievement and community involvement highlights his exceptional character, making him a valuable asset both to his team and the communities he serves. Whether mentoring youth players, excelling on the field, or contributing to charitable causes, Alex’s dedication to excellence is evident in all that he does.
“Alex is a tremendous leader on and off the field. He does an incredible job with our pitching staff. Alex also does exceptional work with the kids in the community, as he shares his love of the game with them through many hours of instruction. He absolutely represents Peace Baseball in a first class manner.”
Charlie Long, Head Baseball Coach, William Peace
Jake McKee – Florida Gulf Coast University
Jake McKee’s success both on the baseball field and within his community speaks to his character, leadership, and dedication. A standout player at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), Jake made his mark early, earning his first start during the opening weekend against TCU. Beyond his impressive athletic ability, Jake has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches. His leadership extends far beyond the dugout, as he was honored by the 2024 team as the “Community Difference Maker,” a recognition of his efforts to positively impact the community.
Off the field, Jake has been an active volunteer in his local community, where he was raised and continues to make a significant impact. For the past six years, he has volunteered at youth baseball camps, quickly becoming a fan favorite among young kids. His commitment to helping others is evident in his work with Nullability, an organization dedicated to providing individuals who have lost limbs the opportunity to play baseball. Jake also plays an active role in the FGCU Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SACC), where he represents the baseball team and advocates for the well-being of athletes across the entire athletics department.
Jake’s community involvement extends to several local organizations. He has volunteered for the Harry Chapin Food Bank and dedicated countless hours assisting with hurricane recovery efforts in Southwest Florida. Whether it’s helping rebuild homes for families without insurance or lending a hand during times of crisis, Jake is always someone the community can rely on.
Looking ahead, Jake plans to continue working in the community after finishing school, ensuring that his impact and commitment to giving back remain a priority. His contributions both on and off the field have made him a leader not only for the FGCU Eagles but for the Southwest Florida area as well.
Kamau Neighbors – University of Louisville
Kamau Neighbor has built a reputation both on the baseball field and within his community for his exceptional athleticism, leadership, and service-driven mindset. A first-year player at the University of Louisville, Kamau’s character and work ethic were quickly recognized when he was voted team captain. Before joining Louisville, Kamau played for California State Northridge, where he started all fifty-four games of the season. As a key player, he slashed .305/.436/.420 and was ranked second on the team in hits, runs scored, and doubles. Known for his consistency, Kamau ranked fourth in the nation in toughest to strike out and twelfth in sacrifice hits. His nineteen-game hit streak and twenty-two-game on-base streak were both remarkable, underscoring his ability to perform under pressure. He also led the team in walks and stolen bases with impressive efficiency, going eight-for-ten in attempts.
Off the field, Kamau’s passion for giving back to others is just as strong. He is deeply committed to helping improve his community and serving those in need. Through the SPAD Association Wheelchair Volunteer Group, Kamau helped elderly and mobility-challenged individuals navigate to their seats during the Louisville football season opener against Austin Peay. Kamau is also an active volunteer with the Louisville Miracle League, an organization that provides children with physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities the opportunity to play baseball.
In addition to his work with the Miracle League, Kamau served Thanksgiving meals to less fortunate families in South Louisville with the South Lou Thanksgiving Serve Team. His compassion extended further through his involvement with Fellowship of Christian Athletes’ Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child project, where he helped pack gift boxes to be sent to children worldwide. Kamau’s dedication to youth extends to his volunteer work at the MLB Youth Academy in Compton, California, where he mentored young athletes, helping them develop not only as players but as individuals committed to excelling both on and off the field.
As a mentor at On Deck Batting Cages in Signal Hill, California, Kamau continues to inspire aspiring student-athletes, offering guidance on how to balance academics with sports. Kamau’s service extends to his spiritual life as well; he is an active member of Reach Church in Paradise, California, where he serves on the production and stagehands team while also participating in community outreach.
“It’s an honor to have one of our captains selected for the Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team. He’s clearly making a huge impact in our program as well as in the Louisville community. The Gehrig family will be proud to have Kamau as a member of this prestigious team.”
Dan McDonnell, Head Baseball Coach, Louisville
Eli Paton – Grand Canyon University
Eli Paton’s impact both on and off the baseball field exemplifies his dedication to excellence and service. A leader on the Grand Canyon University baseball team, Eli has been an active member of the nonprofit organization Once Upon a Room since high school. His involvement has continued throughout his college years, where he has worked to bring joy to hospitalized children by decorating their rooms to match their interests and needs. Eli averages at least three room-decorating events each year and plays a significant role in organizing events such as delivering Christmas trees and toys to Children’s Hospital LA every December. In January 2025, Eli took on the responsibility of organizing a team-wide event at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, where, under his leadership, the team decorated an entire unit, bringing cheer to many young patients.
On the field, Eli’s performance has been nothing short of stellar. He was a key contributor to Grand Canyon’s historic 2024 WAC championship team, securing the school’s first NCAA regional victory in its Division I history and advancing to the regional championship round. Eli started fifty-seven of the team’s sixty-one games, missing only four due to a concussion. As a key member of the batting order, he finished the season with a .319 batting average, fifteen doubles, eight home runs, forty-one RBIs, and forty-seven runs scored.
Defensively, Eli’s contributions were equally impressive. As a third baseman, his exceptional fielding earned him a nomination for the National Gold Glove award, an honor given to the top defensive third baseman in the country. Eli was named a finalist for the prestigious award, further cementing his reputation as one of the nation’s best at his position.
“Eli Paton has made a tremendous impact on our baseball program on and off the field. He represents hard work, high character, a selfless attitude, and a servant leadership mindset. His consistent and continuous work in the community through Once Upon a Room is a great example of Eli as a person. One of the absolute best people I’ve had the pleasure of coaching.”
Gregg Wallis, Grand Canyon Head Baseball Coach
“Eli is the right guy for any situation. He sets and exceeds standards on and off the field. His actions impact all around him in a positive way. He is a culture builder, and I am confident he will be a huge success story in whatever path life takes him.”
Paul Panaccione, GCU Infield Coach
Keith LeClair – East Carolina University
Keith LeClair was a highly respected baseball coach and former head coach of East Carolina University’s baseball program. Taking the reins in 1997, he quickly turned the Pirates into a national powerhouse, leading them to multiple NCAA tournament appearances and building a reputation for competitive, high-energy baseball. Known for his leadership, LeClair emphasized player development and fostered a close-knit team environment that propelled many players to professional careers. In his five seasons with the Pirates, LeClair tallied a win-loss record of 212-96-1. He was twice named the Colonial Athletic Association Coach-of-the-Year and ABCA East Region Coach-of-the-Year.
In 2006, LeClair’s life took a devastating turn when he was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Despite his rapid physical decline, he continued to coach, showing extraordinary resilience and determination. His battle with ALS became an inspiration to many, not just in baseball, but in the broader community. He retired that same year, leaving behind a legacy of toughness, integrity, and leadership.
LeClair passed away on July 18, 2006, at the age of 41, but his impact lives on. The ECU baseball team honors his memory with the annual Keith LeClair Classic, and his story continues to inspire athletes and individuals facing adversity. LeClair’s contributions to college baseball and his courageous fight against ALS remain a testament to his strength and character.
