Rochester, Mich. - Proud Oakland alumni, staff member, and super fan Anthony Gallina is this year's Wibby Award recipient.
Beginning his undergrad in 2003, Gallina was originally a member of the Oakland pep band. There at almost every game to cheer on the Golden Grizzlies, Gallina took supporting the Golden Grizzlies above and beyond. In 2008, he officially founded the Grizz Gang as an official student organization, making Oakland's Student Spirit Group a mainstay at Oakland Athletics events. Since then, Gallina has spearheaded the growth of the Oakland student section and enhanced the atmosphere and support around every Oakland sport.
Gallina has been to everything from Softball championship games to Women's NCAA Tournament basketball bids to March Madness miracles with the Grizz Gang, becoming the national face of Oakland Sports fandom across all programs.
"I am lucky as an alumni to still be able to serve OU. Out of all the titles I've had, being a fan is my favorite," said Gallina. "My main goal is to show and scream out how important and special Oakland is, and to show my appreciation for all the hard work the student athletes put in".
Gallina has served many roles since his student days at Oakland. From working in admissions in 2011, to being Vice-Chairman of the Golden Grizzlies Champion Club, to his current title of Director of Corporate Relations School of Engineering and Computer Science, Gallina has always been an essential part of the Oakland community.
"Anthony is a very deserving recipient of the George Wibby Award. He is a proud Oakland graduate who has volunteered his time and expertise across the University and athletic department," said Athletic Director Steve Waterfield. "Building on his years of service, Anthony continues to contribute in a variety of ways that advance OU athletics and the Golden-Grizzly student-athlete experience. I look forward to honoring Anthony at February's induction ceremony".
You can see Gallina at many of Oakland's sports events, complete with a large flag and a heart full of Oakland spirit and devotion.
ABOUT THE AWARD
George Wibby's long history with Oakland University began in the 1960s as an official for the swimming and diving program. Wibby was also a familiar face at basketball games and golf outings. After retiring from the American Red Cross, Wibby coached golf and worked as a golf ranger at the Katke-Cousins Golf Course. Wibby established the Jewel Wibby Scholarship Fund in honor of his wife after her death.
To recognize Wibby's dedication and service to Oakland, the George Wibby Award was established in 1987. This award is given to an Oakland University employee who exemplifies spirit and devotion to Oakland, along with compassion and care for those around them.
Gallina will be honored as part of the Hollie L. Lepley Hall of Honor ceremony on Feb. 3 at the Royal Park Hotel. To learn more about the ceremony and to register to attend, click HERE.
