Jim Gillihan Award

In May, 2002, the T.E.A.M. Conference Committee decided to establish two scholarships in the name of Dr. James Gillihan for his lifetime of service, honor and dedication. The scholarships are to honor two deserving people and help them  financially attend the T.E.A.M. Conference.  Jim was informed of the scholarships and was thrilled to become "a permanent part of the T.E.A.M. Conference."

 Jim had been attending and presenting workshops since 1995. His half day workshops on  Lakota, Cherokee, and Celtic customs, ceremonies, history, and traditions were always packed with interested participants.  His encyclopedic mind captivated people with the facts, stories and experiences he would recall and share.

Jim Gillihan was a warrior in every sense of the word, but what he will be remembered for most was his kindness, patience, and the gentle way he helped people.  When you sat in his circles he made you feel welcome and aware that your presence was important.  People loved being around him as you would love sitting with your own grandfather.  Jim passed away on June 7, 2002, but he will never be forgotten by those of us who where fortunate to know him. Moments with Jim seemed like a life time.

Our two recipients for 2002 were the following:

* Rob Schader, who is a second year teacher at St. Pat's High school, in Chicago. Rob has written an article for the Ripple Effect newsletter (click here to view). You can read for yourself about the transformational effect Adventure/Challenge Education had on him.

* Le Moine LaPointe has worked for years in the adventure field, and is active in social justice and human rights.  In 2002, he organized the first experiential  conference for The Association for Experiential Education (AEE) in  Mission, South Dakota. His goal is to introduce this process to educators so they will use it in the school systems.  Mission, South Dakota, is LeMoine's home town and has one of the highest unemployment and teen suicide rates in the country.  He believes that adventure/challenge programs can instill a sense of hope in the community.

NOMINATIONS:  If you would like to nominate someone for the Dr. James Gillihan Award, submit a letter in writing to the T.E.A.M. Committee with as much information as you can supply about the person, as well as why you feel they deserve the scholarship.  We look forward to hearing from you.

Mail to:
T.E.A.M.
Physical Education Complex Building
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 N. St. Louis Ave.
Chicago, IL  60025