STEUBENVILLE, OHIO— Franciscan University of Steubenville will host its annual Baron Club Dinner on Thursday, April 30. The Baron Club Dinner is one of the University’s premier annual events, bringing together alumni, benefactors, and friends to celebrate Franciscan’s mission and support its athletic programs. Several local leaders will be honored for their commitment and service to the Ohio Valley.

Former Pittsburgh Pirates manager Clint Hurdle will give the keynote speech and share insights from his life in professional baseball, his journey through adversity, and the transformative role of faith in his life.

Hurdle began his baseball career as one of the most highly touted high school prospects in the country, selected ninth overall in the 1975 MLB Draft and featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated. He went on to play 10 seasons in the major leagues.

After his playing career, Hurdle found his true calling in coaching and managing. He began managing in 1988 and later joined the Colorado Rockies organization, where he became manager in 2002. Under his leadership, the Rockies rose from years of struggle to a winning record and captured the National League pennant during the memorable 2007 “Rocktober” run to the World Series.

Hurdle later served as manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he led a remarkable turnaround of a franchise that had endured 20 consecutive losing seasons. In 2013, he guided the Pirates to their first postseason appearance since 1992, earning National League Manager of the Year honors. He returned the team to the postseason again in 2014 and 2015 and finished his tenure as the first Pirates manager since 1979 to achieve a winning record.

Known for his innovative leadership and deep care for others, Hurdle continues to inspire thousands through a daily message of encouragement he began sending in 2009. What started as a small group text to close friends has grown into a daily email reaching more than 7,000 people.

During the evening, Franciscan University will present the Father Terence Henry, TOR, President’s Award to two individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the University and the broader community.

Dick Riederer, former CEO of Weirton Steel and a past member of the Franciscan University Board of Trustees, will be honored for his instrumental role in the University’s growth and development. His leadership helped establish the University’s study abroad program in Gaming, Austria, and strengthened ties between Franciscan and the Ohio Valley community.

Mike Haney, head boys basketball coach at Steubenville Catholic Central High School, will also receive the Father Henry award. Under his leadership, the program recently achieved its most successful season in decades with a state runner-up finish. Beyond athletics, Haney is recognized for his mentorship and lasting impact on young men in the Steubenville community.

The University will also present the Kuzma Community Award to Laurie Labishak in recognition of her outstanding service and dedication to the Ohio Valley. Known for her generosity and leadership, Labishak has served on numerous boards and has consistently given her time and talents to strengthen the region.

Proceeds from the Baron Club Dinner support student-athletes at Franciscan University, helping them grow in faith, excellence, and leadership both on and off the field.

The event will be held in the Finnegan Fieldhouse, beginning with a reception and dinner at 6:00 p.m. and the main program at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are $90 each for dinner reservations, or $125 each for dinner plus a Baron Club membership. Sponsorship opportunities range from $500 to $5,000 and include opportunities for photos with Hurdle, autographed books, and sponsorship recognition. Register for your seat here or email [email protected].

An image for the event can be found here.