Former BYU football coaching great LaVell Edwards will be honored as the 2011 recipient of the Pioneer in Leadership Award, presented today by the BYU Management Society Utah Valley Chapter.
The BYU Management Society is a networking organization for values-based professionals without regard for school or religious affiliation who are dedicated to growing moral and ethical leadership around the world. The Utah Valley Chapter created the Pioneer in Leadership Award to recognize contemporary pioneers that exemplify courage in adversity and integrity in leadership. The award is also an opportunity to raise scholarship money for BYU and UVU students, according to a news release.
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During his time as coach, Cougar players won a Heisman Trophy, two Outland Trophies (best offensive lineman) and four Davey O’Brien Awards (best quarterback). He led BYU to 21 bowl games and was twice recognized as national coach of the year.
Before his time as a coach, Edwards received his bachelor’s degree from Utah State, his master’s degree from the University of Utah and his doctorate from BYU.
But there is more to this man’s resume than being a great BYU coach.
Edwards is married to Patti Covey, and the couple have three children: John, Jim and Ann. He has served ecclesiastically in the LDS Church in many callings, including bishop, stake high councilman and ward public affairs director. He also served a mission in New York City with his wife.
Edwards will join recent recipients Glenn Beck (2008), President Dieter F. Uchtdorf (2009) and Stephen Covey (2010).
The Award Gala will feature entertainment by Lokalgrown, a band with roots at Utah State University and Edwards as a keynote speaker. The event will take place at the Provo Marriott Center, with a VIP reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 7.
Guests can register for the event by going to byuuvuscholarships.com.
