Knight of Excellence
Celebrating Our Community
Thursday, September 24, 2026
5:30 PM
The Galt House Hotel
On Thursday, September 24, 2026, Bellarmine University will thank our most loyal supporters and celebrate several distinguished members at our annual Knight of Excellence celebration.
The following outstanding members of our community will be recognized and celebrated
at this event:
Russell F. Cox '22 Hon.
2026 Knight of Knights Award
Al '72 & Mary Jo '74, '84 Burke
Alumnus of the Year
Major General (Ret.) Edward W. Tonini '68
Scarlet & Silver Society
Father Clyde F. Crews '66
Horrigan Distinguished Service Award
Alli Truttmann '06
Gallery of Distinguished Graduates
Thomas Bartrum '89
Gallery of Distinguished Graduates
Kristy Leonard '00, '03
Gallery of Distinguished Graduates
Jim Mattingly '01
Gallery of Distinguished Graduates
Attire: The dress attire for Knight of Excellence is business casual.
All proceeds support student aid and scholarships. Visit our Knight of Excellence photo page to see past celebrations.
Knight of Excellence Scholarship Fund
The Knight of Excellence Scholarship Fund supports scholarships and financial aid for students at Bellarmine University. Gifts to the fund can be made online or by mail.
Here are the ways you can become part of the Knight of Excellence event:
- Join the Bellarmine President’s Society: This is the university’s most prestigious donor recognition club for those who contribute $2,000 or more (per couple or organization) to Bellarmine during the fiscal year. Join now through our Online Giving Form.
- Become a Sponsor: High-visibility corporate and individual sponsorships are available at $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000 levels. Learn more about becoming a sponsor.
To learn more about the benefits of being a President's Society member or a Knight of Excellence sponsor, please contact Alex Spoelker, Assistant Vice President of Development Operations at aspoelker2@bellarmine.edu or (502) 272-8336.