Clarence “Ike” Pearson SID Award – Donnie Smith
Named in honor of the former statistical crew chief of the NAIA Division I Men’s Basketball National Championship, the Clarence “Ike” Pearson Award recognizes a member of the NAIA-Sports Information Directors Association (NAIA-SIDA) for their outstanding contributions to the profession.
Since joining Southeastern University (Fla.) in 2013, Donnie Smith has been a key proponent of advancing the interests of sports information directors across the industry.
Throughout his expansive career, Donnie has held numerous leadership positions within the NAIA, including president of the Sports Information Directors Association. Donnie’s significant contributions to the association and broader industry have earned him several distinct honors, including being named the NAIA Sports Information Director of the Year twice, Sun Conference Sports Information Director of the Year three times, College Sports Communicators Writing Contest District Honoree three times, and the 2023 College Sports Communicators’ Rising Star award winner.
His influence in the field goes well beyond his numerous accolades. Donnie has been a transformative figure, inspiring and mentoring many students, graduate assistants, and colleagues looking to advance their careers in communications.