NCAA President Myles Brand accepted the 2009 Pathfinder Award on Sunday. It was one of his most public appearances since being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer earlier this year.
"It's been my great pleasure to help lead the work of the NCAA these past seven years," he said. "I believe it's a great mission, and we are now harvesting the benefits of our hard work."
Pathfinder awards have been given out since 1988 by the Indiana Sports Corporation and Indiana Black Expo to recognized individuals who have demonstrated a dedicated commitment to improving the lives of America's youth. Jack and Barbara Nicklaus and WNBA star Tamika Catchings were also honored.