Michael J. Cleary Merit of Honor Award

The Merit of Honor Award recognizes an individual "whose superior integrity is displayed in tireless commitment to the highest ideals of athletics in general and intercollegiate athletics in particular."

Recipient	Institution/Organization (Year)
Bill Hancock	College Football Playoff (2025)
Jim Delany	Big Ten Conference (2021)
Holly Rowe	ESPN (2017)
Arnold Palmer	Wake Forest University (2013)
Pat Summitt	University of Tennessee (2012)
Mike Cleary	National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (2011)
Phil Knight	Nike, Inc. (2010)
Myles Brand	NCAA (2009)
Tommy Lasorda	Los Angeles Dodgers (2001)
Ben Carnevale	College of William and Mary - Retired (2001)
Joe Crowley	University of Nevada (1999)
Bob Bronzan	San Jose State University - Retired (1991)
Pete Rozelle	National Football League (1989)