honorary m

An Honorary M is presented to those who have not earned a varsity letter but have demonstrated outstanding service to the University of Michigan and/or its Athletic Department.  This award grants honorees the opportunity to join the Letterwinners M Club.

2026 Award Recipient

scotty passink

For more than three decades, Scotty Passink has been a steadfast champion of the University of Michigan and its athletic program, serving as an exceptional ambassador whose impact has been felt throughout Ann Arbor and across the nation. Through his work with the athletic development office and his lifelong commitment to the university, Scotty has dedicated himself to strengthening the bonds that unite the Michigan family and advancing the values that make Michigan special.

With deep generational ties to the university, Scotty's connection to Michigan runs far beyond his professional responsibilities. He has consistently sought opportunities to enhance the reputation and reach of the athletic program, fostering meaningful relationships with alumni, supporters, and friends of the university. His genuine enthusiasm for Michigan and his unwavering commitment to its success have made him a trusted representative of the Block M and an invaluable member of the Wolverine community.

Although cerebral palsy prevented Scotty from competing in athletics himself, few individuals have demonstrated a greater passion for Michigan Athletics or contributed more wholeheartedly to its mission. His perseverance, positivity, and dedication have inspired countless student-athletes, alumni, and supporters over the years. Through every challenge, Scotty has remained committed to serving the university he loves, embodying the spirit of determination and excellence that defines Michigan.

The admiration and respect Scotty has earned extend across generations of Michigan athletes. Former student-athletes spanning more than four decades have voiced their support for this recognition, reflecting the profound impact he has had on the lives of those connected to the university. His ability to bring people together, cultivate lasting relationships, and represent Michigan with integrity and pride has left an enduring mark on the athletic community.

“Michigan has never been a place to me - it has been a lifelong source of inspiration, purpose, and family.  This recognition is not just a reflection of my journey, but of the countless people, mentors, friends, and family members who taught me what it means to lead, serve, and represent Michigan with pride.”

We are proud to recognize Scotty Passink with the 2026 Honorary M in appreciation of his extraordinary service, unwavering loyalty, and lifelong dedication to the University of Michigan and its athletic program. His commitment to the Maize and Blue exemplifies the very values this award was created to honor.

Past Winners

2025

John Paul

2024

Doug Karsch

2023

Fred ‘Bud’ Stein

2021

Dave Linebaugh

2020

Kim Eagle

2019

Ronni Bernstein

Dana Jacobson

Marc Weiser

2018

Steve Lambright

Mark Rosen

Mike Bottom

2017

John Beilin

Barb Cossman

Doug Barnett

Jon Lockard

2016

Marsha Pankartz

John Rotche

Carey Larabee

2015

Steve Burns 

Dale Bahr

2014

David Heleniak

2013

Bill and Karen Davidson

Phil Bromley

2012 

Shari Acho

Sandy Vong

2011

Percy Bates

Lisa Hass

2010

Mary Sue Coleman

John Junge

2009

John U. Bacon

Jerry Green

Ian Hume

Stephen Ross

Bud Vandewege

2008

Early M Women

Greg Harden

Jack Janveja

Fred Wilpon

2007

Mary Passink

Bonney Brandt

Pam Stevens

2006

Ed and Leann Bouillion

Steve Grafton

Dr. Hazel “Doc” Losh

Pam St. John

2005

Bob Bland

Jim Plocki

Robert A. Rosiek

2004

Carl Isaacson

Fred Jackson

Ted Spencer

Lois Isaacson Simmons

Dick Katcher

2003

Frank Beckmann

Shelly Kovacs

Harry McLaughlin

2002

Tom Moss Sr. 

Charlie Green

2001

Beverly Plocki

Bruce Madej

Jim Schneider

Howard King

Al Burdi

2000

Robert E. Kalmbach

Joyce I. Linderman

Paul W. Schmidt

1999

Lynn Koch

1998

Kalvin M. Grove

Marie Hartwig

Anne Monterio

Melvin K. Pearson

John J.H. Schwarz

1997

J. Michael Gittleson

Warren Lockette

Elizabeth (Bitsy) Ritt

1996

Carol S. Hutchins

1995

Alex A. Agase

Alvin L. Glick

Francie Kraker Goodridge

C. Corydon Randall

Donald R. Shepherd

1994

Robert W. Browne

Phyllis M. Ocker

Micki King

1993

Bob Chmiel

Jon Falk

Michael J. Stevenson

1992

Lloyd Carr Jr.

James W. Carras

Gary S. Sandall

1991

James J. Duderstadt

William C. Parkinson

Terry N. Smith

1990

Leo Calhoun

James C. Richardson

1989

Gregory M. Barton

Gary O. Moeller

1988

Thomas G. Whittingham

1987

Thomas Hemmingway

Russell E. Miller

G.W. Stover II

1986

Warren C. Crouch

Ronald Warhurst

1969 – 1985

Gregory F. Bevis

Tirrel Burton

George E. Cavender

Frank S. Day

John L. Denniston

Brian W. Eisner

Les F. Etter

Steve Filipiak

Robben W. Fleming

William Flemming

Robert G. Forman

William S. Frieder

Stephen J. GalletiRalph M. Gibson

Jerry F. Hanlon

Joseph P. Hayden Jr. 

Merle Henry

Dorin L. Hinerman

Nilus W. Hubble

E. Richard Hurst

Robert G. Hurst

D. Bruce Laing

Donald H. Lintz

Frederick C. Matthaei Jr. 

J. Lindsy McLean

Arthur B. McWood Jr.

Gerald A. O’Connor

Johnny Orr

William J. Perigo

Harold Phelps

Ronald L. Pulliam

Ward L. Quaal

William R. Reed

Glenn E. Schembechler

Harold T. Shapiro

Ernest T. Sigler

Kennth “Red” Simmons

Allan F. Smith

John P. Weidenbach

Samuel Weiss

1953 – 1968

Carl E. Badgley

Nathan Chestnut

Alfred W. Coxon

Harlan H. Hatcher

John D. Hibbard

James E. Hunt

Louis B. Hyde

Albert Katzenmeyer

Newton C. Loken

Frank M. Mackey Sr. 

William M. Mazer Sr. 

William E. Murphy

Lenwood Paddock

Hugh H. Rader Jr. 

William B. Revelli

Branch Rickey

Earl N. Riskey

Murray D. Van Wagoner

Frederick J. Vogt

Donald A. Weir

1913 – 1952

Ralph W. Aigler

Charles Baird

Lon H. Barringer

Thorne J. Brown

William B. Crawford

Herbert O. Crisler

Philip Diamond

J. Kenneth Doherty

Louis Elbel

Stephen J. Farrell

Ray L. Fisher

Keene Fitzpatrick

W. Henry Hatch

Charles B. Hoyt

Clifford P. Keen

J. Fred Lawton

Matthew Mann II

Frederick C. Matthaei Sr. 

George A. May

James A. Murfin

Arthur D. Robinson

Alexander G. Ruthven

Thomas C. Trueblood

Fielding H. Yost