Wabash College Athletics Hall of Fame
Frances “Fran” Hollett, throughout your long relationship with Wabash, you have been inextricably and rightfully linked with your husband, Byron P. Hollett. Indeed, the names “Fran and Barney” were said together so often by so many people in so many venues, it became rare to imagine the two of you apart. But now — just as in 1985 — is your time to stand tall among the Little Giants who love you so much.
Now is the time when Wabash salutes you, Fran, for what you’ve meant to generations of Wabash men. From your earliest introduction to Wabash through this day, you have been steadfast in your devotion to the College. While your original college diploma may read “Indiana State University,” you seem always most proud of the honorary alumna citation given to you by the National Association of Wabash Men in 1985, making you the first woman ever to be so honored.
Perhaps the reason why Wabash men revere you is because you have that wonderful ability to be both “one of the guys” and the gracious hostess or kindest friend. You have cheered Wabash men to victory in seasons year-round and in weather ranging from hot and humid to the miserable cold late in the 1982 football season. You traveled literally thousands of miles to show your support for your teams. Wabash men from across generations see you as a common link to the College they love. For example, when we wanted to get the 1977 football team together for a reunion, we called you, Fran, because we knew if you took charge, the team would come through. And so it has been for all these years; you have been a constant in the life of this College and its athletes. In 1985, the NAWM said you were “known for your enthusiastic support of Wabash and kindness to numerous students,” and that enthusiasm has simply grown stronger over the last 21 years.
Just as your late husband modeled for so many what it was to be a Wabash gentleman, you stand tonight as a model of dedication and devotion to the College and what it means to be a fervent fan of the Little Giants. So it is with great honor and pride that the National Association of Wabash Men inducts you in the Wabash Athletics Hall of Fame. Fran Hollett — Some Little Giant!
