Inaugural Troop 1908 Award Biographies
Harvey and Sharon Dean have left an indelible mark on Pitt State Athletics and the university as a whole through their decades-long commitment to student and student-athlete success. They generously funded the indoor track in the state-of-the-art Robert W. Plaster Center, enabling Pitt State to host the NCAA Division II National Indoor Track & Field Championships that bring hundreds of student-athletes and their families, coaches, and fans to Pittsburg, Kansas. Harvey and Sharon's generosity extends across campus to historic McCray Hall, where the renovated Sharon K. Dean Recital Hall is home to student performances, high school music camps, community events, and the Solo and Chamber Music Series, which brings world-renowned musicians to Pittsburg. Harvey's career in K12 education led the Deans to help fund the construction of the Crossland Technology Center, endow a technology education scholarship for future teachers, serve on two college advisory boards, and establish the Teacher of the Game prize given at every home football game. Harvey and Sharon's contributions have impacted countless past, current, and future Gorillas, and put Pitt State on the national stage in more ways than one.
Bob Leppke, founder of Promaxima Fitness and a former Gorilla football student-athlete, is a steadfast champion of Pitt State Athletics. He continues to significantly advance the success of the football program and other sports teams by addressing a variety of critical needs. Bob's vision and generosity were instrumental in creating the university's outstanding 11,000-square-foot strength and conditioning facility by outfitting it with professional Promaxima weight and conditioning equipment. This cutting-edge facility provides student-athletes with the tools they need to train at an elite level, including over 1,200 individual pieces of equipment and 20,000 pounds of free weights. In 2019, Bob made it possible to replace the iconic Jungletron in Carnie Smith Stadium, providing fans with the ultimate high-definition video experience on gameday. Bob has regularly stepped in to fund athlete needs when called upon, and is a fixture on the football sideline at all home games. Bob's impact resonates across campus, reflecting his deep commitment to the success and well-being of our student-athletes.
Miles and Paula Schnaer are unwavering supporters of Pitt State Athletics, contributing to the department's success in numerous ways. Their installation of a modern HVAC system and video board in John Lance Arena has transformed the gameday experience for volleyball and basketball fans, as well as those attending academic and community events. Outside of the arena, the Schnaers were key contributors to the original Jungletron in Carnie Smith Stadium, and regularly donate their time, wine from Schnaer Family Wines, and funds for special events and needs. Their company, Crown Automotive, has supplied courtesy vehicles to Pitt State Athletics staff for nearly 15 years. Miles served on the steering committee that conceived the Silverback Fund (and was a founding donor), and is currently the vice chair of the Pittsburg State University Foundation board of trustees. Miles and Paula remain connected to fraternity and sorority life at Pitt State through scholarships and leadership, and support the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts as members of the Steinway Society. Beyond their tangible contributions, the Schnaers' dedication to the athletic department has helped create a culture of excellence and unity, ensuring that every student-athlete has the resources to succeed both on and off the field.
