DECATUR, Ill. – During a day of pride, legacy, and Big Blue excellence, Millikin University honored seven inductees — including four standout student-athletes, one legendary coach, and two historic teams — during the 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held during Homecoming weekend. The event brought together alumni, families, and fans to celebrate the enduring spirit of Big Blue athletics and the generations of excellence that have defined Millikin’s history.
“This morning is a celebration of just how important athletics are to the Millikin experience,” said Millikin President Dr. Dean Pribbenow. “Our Hall of Fame inductees embody the very best of what it means to be Big Blue — excellence, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness both on and off the field.”
The ceremony, emceed by Mando Podeschi ’02, Millikin’s Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Operations, marked the 55th year of the University’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Since its founding in 1970, more than 300 athletes, coaches, and teams have been inducted for their outstanding contributions to Big Blue Athletics.
Here are this year’s inductees:
Dion L. Wilson Sr. ’11 — Football
A two-time All-Conference running back and four-time Academic All-Conference honoree, Dion Wilson Sr. ranks among Millikin’s all-time greats, finishing fifth in career rushing yards (2,829). Wilson reflected on his journey and the people who helped shape it:
“(Millikin Assistant Football Coach Mike Poe) saw greatness when I was just trying to survive,” Wilson shared. “No one ever gets here alone. It takes a team on the field, in the locker room, and at home.”
Wilson, now an Illinois State Trooper, credited his family for their unwavering support — from his mother’s dedication to his children’s inspiration — saying, “Every mile driven and every word of encouragement mattered.”
Carvel E. Johnson ’73 — Football
A trailblazer both on and off the field, Carvel Johnson was a two-time All-Conference offensive lineman who helped anchor the Big Blue’s first winning season under legendary coach Skip Mathieson. A leader beyond athletics, Johnson co-founded Millikin’s Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Theta Omicron Chapter and advocated for inclusion on campus.
Reflecting on his journey, Johnson shared how a chance encounter as a Decatur teenager with Coach Mathieson first connected him to Millikin:
“I helped move Coach Skip into his house for five dollars — and that’s how it all started,” he recalled. “I didn’t plan to come here, but faith had other ideas. I’m so proud to have been part of something that helped change Millikin.”
Gregory C. Hines ’85 — Track & Field
A record-setting hurdler, Gregory Hines captured the CCIW Championship in the 110-meter hurdles in 1985, later earning All-American honors at the NCAA Championships. During his remarks, Hines shared a heartfelt story about his early inspiration and gratitude for those who guided him:
“Track and field taught me preparation, perseverance, and the power of pushing yourself to your limits,” he said. “This award is a testament to every teammate, coach, and family member who helped me along the way.”
A former IRS Special Enforcement Agent, Hines now mentors young athletes and continues to embody Big Blue’s values of discipline and leadership.
Kalli Farmer Collins ’20 — Softball
Kalli Collins left her mark as one of the most decorated athletes in Millikin Softball history — batting .399 for her career, earning three All-Conference honors, and twice leading the nation in “Toughest to Strikeout.”
Her induction was also a moment of reflection on resilience. Collins spoke about the abrupt end to her senior season in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Losing a senior season is small compared to everything else happening in the world, but it’s nice to have this moment to wrap it up in a positive way,” she said.
She also thanked her family, coaches, teammates, and twin brother Korbin ’20, noting that “Millikin will always hold a special place in my heart — it’s where I found faith, family, and lifelong friendships.”
Marilyn Trainer Dechert ’55 (posthumous) — Women’s Golf Coach
Returning to her alma mater at age 69, Marilyn Dechert transformed Millikin Women’s Golf, producing three NCAA qualifiers and 15 All-Conference players. Her husband, Dick Dechert ’54, accepted the award on her behalf, honoring her legacy of mentorship and sportsmanship.
“She believed in integrity, sportsmanship, kindness, and fairness — all the qualities that golf teaches,” he said. “Through Marilyn’s coaching, we found not just competition, but connection.”
The Dechert Classic, Millikin’s annual women’s golf tournament, continues to honor her name and legacy.
1974 Football Team — Team Inductee
The 1974 Big Blue Football Team achieved one of the greatest seasons in Millikin history, capturing the CCIW Co-Championship and finishing 8-2 with a No. 9 national ranking. Representing the team, Kevin Kohler ’75 reflected on their journey from underdogs to champions:
“They said we were rebuilding. Instead, we rebuilt Millikin Football,” Kohler recalled. “We worked, we believed, and we left with a championship ring that still reminds us what teamwork can achieve.”
Led by Head Coach Skip Mathieson, the 1974 team featured multiple future Hall of Famers and remains a cornerstone of Millikin’s football tradition.
1985 Women’s Basketball Team — Team Inductee
Under Hall of Fame Coach Harriett Crannell, the 1985 Women’s Basketball team posted a 23-3 record and advanced to the NCAA Final Four, finishing third in the nation. Representing the team, Terri Jones Kawczynski ’85 spoke on behalf of her teammates:
“We weren’t expected to go far, but we did — together,” she said. “Coach Crannell was an amazing recruiter and motivator. She brought local stars together and made us believe.”
Several members of the team, including Jones Kawczynski, Lori Kerans ’85, Michelle Mariage ’86, and Paula Keller-Holtman ’88, have since been inducted individually, underscoring the program’s excellence and legacy.
In closing the ceremony, Mandi Podeschi reminded attendees that each inductee’s name will soon join Millikin’s Athletic Hall of Fame Wall in Griswold Physical Education Center.
“To the champions, record holders, and leaders who have worn the blue — you are our family, our role models, and our inspiration,” she said. “Your legacy will continue to shape future generations of Big Blue athletes.”
