Lyon College: Celebrating the Achievements of Notable Alumni
Lyon College, steeped in tradition and committed to fostering excellence, takes pride in its alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. The annual Alumni Awards Banquet serves as a platform to recognize and celebrate these outstanding individuals. This article highlights some of the distinguished alumni who have been honored for their achievements, service, and dedication to the college and their communities.
Honoring Excellence: The Alumni Awards Banquet
The Patterson Dining Hall of Edwards Commons was the venue for the Alumni Awards Banquet and induction ceremony. David Brogdon, ’93, presided over the event, which included a warm welcome from Lyon College President Dr. Melissa P. The banquet recognizes alumni and friends of the College for their achievements.
Athletic Prowess and Enduring Legacy
Katie Beineke, ’10: A Volleyball Standout
Katie Beineke, ’10, a four-year Scots volleyball standout, was presented by Director of Athletics Kevin Jenkins, ’86. Her athletic achievements are remarkable. Beineke consistently demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication. She was a first-team TranSouth All-Conference player for three consecutive years (2007-2009) and earned spots on the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA), National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), honorable mention All-American team, and AVCA All-Southeast Region in 2008.
On the career leaderboard, Beineke holds the second position in kills with 1,305, second in solo blocks with 149, and first in total blocks with 379 from 2006-2009. Her single-season leaderboard highlights include tying for third in solo blocks in 2007 with 46, ranking seventh in total blocks in 2006 with 104, and ninth in total blocks in 2009 with 106. Notably, she holds the record for the most total kills in a single match, with 28, achieved on Sept. 6, 2007, against Williams Baptist University.
Recognized for her dedication and support to the Lyon College athletic program, Beineke was awarded the Winnie Marable Award as a four-year letter winner in women’s volleyball. In 2020, Beineke was awarded the Patterson Decade Award for her consistent support of Lyon College, her successful career, and her valiant work to promote awareness of ovarian and breast cancer and the empowerment of women and girls.
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Lauren (Ramsey) Lawrence, ’12: A Basketball Icon
Lauren (Ramsey) Lawrence, ’12, left an indelible mark on the Lyon College women’s basketball program. She was presented by Tracy Stewart-Lange, ’86. During her time at Lyon, she consistently demonstrated outstanding sports performance, earning accolades such as the TranSouth All-Freshman team in 2009, subsequent placements in the TranSouth AllConference teams from 2010-2012, and receiving the Winnie Marable Award as a four-year letter winner in women’s basketball.
Her achievements extended to the career leaderboard, where with 1,472 points, she became the sixth member of the 1,000 Point Club and displayed prowess in rebounds and blocks, ranking sixth and third, respectively. Finishing her career having played in 124 games, Lawrence’s scoring abilities were evident in her shooting statistics, including a field goal percentage of 50.9 percent, a three-point percentage of 34 percent, and a free-throw percentage of 74 percent. Her impact on the court was highlighted by her leadership as team captain, guiding Lyon College’s women’s basketball to its inaugural appearance in the national tournament. Despite a close loss to the eventual national champion, Westmont College, by a mere 2 points, Lawrence’s contributions were vital to the team’s historic journey.
Recognized for her commitment to fitness and a well-rounded scoring approach, she became a formidable presence on the court, posing a challenge for opposing teams’ post players with her versatile scoring abilities. Known for her relentless work ethic and dedication, she consistently gave her best, earning the admiration of her peers and coaches alike. Lawrence serves as assistant athletic director and theology teacher at Mount St. Mary Academy in Little Rock.
Chris McCrillis, ’97: A Baseball Pillar
Chris McCrillis, ’97, was presented by Kirk Kelley. McCrillis was a four-year Scots baseball standout. His presence on the career leaderboard is evidenced by his impressive ranking of eighth in complete games at 14 from 1994-1997, showcasing his reliability and endurance as a pitcher throughout his collegiate career. His performance on the yearly leaderboard, particularly during the 1996 season, underscored his contributions to Lyon College’s baseball success.
McCrillis’ achievements during this season, including a record of 9-2 on the mound, a noteworthy earned run average, and an impressive number of strikeouts and innings pitched, solidified his status as an outstanding player within the Lyon baseball program. During his junior season in 1996, McCrillis also etched his name in Lyon College’s baseball history with a remarkable no-hitter against Rhodes College.
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Beyond his individual accomplishments, McCrillis played a pivotal role in the advancement and success of Lyon College’s baseball program. As one of eight seniors, McCrillis was one of four who played all four years for the Scots and was instrumental in guiding the team to its first winning season in the modern era of Lyon baseball in 1997. The team’s 30-16 record and victories over Division 2 powerhouses such as Southern Arkansas University, the University of Arkansas at Monticello, and Arkansas Tech University, as well as a notable triumph over the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, highlight McCrillis’ contributions to Lyon College’s baseball program.
McCrillis’ exceptional performance, leadership, and dedication to Lyon College’s baseball program continue to serve as an inspiration and a testament to the spirit of excellence and sportsmanship cherished by Lyon. McCrillis is a Senior Financial Advisor with NewBridge Securities in Little Rock.
Louis Raptopoulous, ’04: A Baseball Force
Louis Raptopoulous, ’04, was presented by Jason Livernois, ’04. Raptopoulos is a memorable name in Lyon College’s baseball history. He made an impressive mark on the college’s baseball program, showcasing skill and dedication on the field. Raptopoulos’ outstanding sports performance throughout his collegiate baseball career is reflected in his rankings on the career leaderboard, including fourth in wins at 26 from 2000-2003, ninth in strikeouts at 154 from 2000-2003, ninth in innings pitched at 245 from 2001-2004, fourth in complete games at 17 from 2001-2004, and sixth in games started at 43 from 2001-2004.
His excellence continued on the yearly leaderboard, where he led in multiple categories during the 2004 season, including 10 wins, 48 strikeouts, 81.1 innings pitched, and 15 games started. He completed eight games in 2001 alone, six in 2004, and 17 in his career. Notably, Raptopoulos etched his name in Lyon College’s baseball history with a memorable no-hitter in 2001. His performance during the 2004 season earned him the honor of second team All-TranSouth Conference, highlighting his contributions to Lyon College’s baseball success.
Louis was selected to play for the Greek National Baseball Team during the summers leading up to the Olympic games from 2001-2004. He finished 2nd place in the 2003 European Baseball Championship, pitching 4 hitless and scoreless innings. Raptopoulos’ on-field brilliance was accompanied by a dynamic and uplifting presence, using energy and Canadian humor to earn him the reputation as the driving force of the team. Raptopoulos lives in St. Charles with his wife, Dr. Kilby (Erwin) Raptopoulos, ’04, and their children, Avery and Hayden.
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Leon Threets, ’77: A Basketball Luminary
Leon Threets, ’77, was presented by Clifton Avant, ’78. Threets is a notable figure in Lyon College’s basketball history, who left an enduring legacy as a distinguished athlete and exemplary individual. Threets’ collegiate basketball journey began at Arkansas State University-Beebe, where he was recognized for his exceptional skills and dedication to the game. His inclusion in the All-Ozark Junior College team for consecutive years in 1972-1973 and 1973-1974 solidified his position as a rising talent in the world of junior college basketball. Notably, Threets set a record at ASU-Beebe with an astounding 29 rebounds in a single game, showcasing his prowess on the court.
Upon transferring to Lyon College (then Arkansas College), Threets continued to excel, establishing himself as the team’s third-leading scorer during the 1974-1975 season. His dominant performance as the team’s top rebounder, averaging 21.1 rebounds per game during the same season, further underscored his impact on Lyon College’s basketball success. Threets’ achievements did not go unnoticed, as he received the honor of being named honorable mention All-Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference for the 1974-1975 and 1975-1976 seasons. Following his college years, Threets embarked on a fulfilling career in law enforcement, making a significant impact beyond the realm of athletics. His remarkable journey exemplifies the spirit and dedication that Lyon College values in its athletes. Threets lives in Livermore, California, with his wife Kim.
Recognizing Service and Achievement
Dr. Lesley Milton, ’11, and Christopher Dickie, ’11: Patterson Decade Award
Two Lyon graduates are selected annually for the Patterson Decade Awards. Dr. Lesley Milton, ’11, and Christopher Dickie, ’11, received the Patterson Decade Award. “The friendships I made while on campus are what helped me make the decision to come back to the area to start my dental practice,” she said. “I thank God everyday for being able to do what I love and for being able to serve the Batesville community. “Lyon College staff and faculty, and the community at large, taught me how to go inside and uncrate the treasure I already own,” Dickie said. “That treasure today is identity, and you let me grab onto that. The Patterson Decade Award will be presented to Dr. The candidate must be a graduate of Lyon College and a member of the 10-year reunion class. The candidate must have achieved a notable degree of success in his or her chosen field, career or profession. The candidate has preferably received some previous recognition from contemporaries.
Rev. Margaret Alsup, ’11: Decade of Service Award
Rev. Margaret Alsup, ’11, received the Decade of Service Award. “When my time as a Lyon student came to an end, I knew I would be involved with this special place,” Alsup said. “When I was asked to serve as the interim chaplain in 2016, I jumped at the chance,” Alsup said. The Decade of Service Award will be presented to Rev. The candidate must be a graduate of Lyon College and a member of the 10-year reunion class.
Deborah Frazier, ’87: Distinguished Alumna Award
Deborah Frazier, ’87, chancellor emerita of the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB), received the Distinguished Alumna Award. This award is presented annually to a former student who completed at least 30 hours at Lyon. “I want to cry because I love this institution,” said Frazier. The Distinguished Alumna Award is presented annually to a former student who completed at least 30 hours at Lyon. The candidate must be a former student of Lyon College (having completed at least 30 hours of more at Lyon) and is preferably a Lyon College graduate. A minimum of 15 years must have passed since the candidate attended Lyon College. The candidate has preferably shown active interest and support of Lyon College in the interim 15 years. The candidate must be distinguished in his/her field or career. The candidate has preferably received some previous recognition from contemporaries.
Dr. Bruce Johnston: Honorary Alumnus Award
Dr. Bruce Johnston, with a 25-year career as Dean of Students at Lyon College, received the Honorary Alumnus Award, which is presented annually to a candidate who has achieved a notable degree of success in his or her chosen field, career, or profession. Johnston said he is particularly proud of developments like the Honor System and the House System, with faculty and staff living in campus residences as advisors, during his time as dean. “I would never have done that at any place that I worked other than here,” he said, “because of the kind of student that was here. Johnston continued, “I enjoyed every minute of my time here. The Honorary Alumnus Award is presented annually to a candidate who has achieved a notable degree of success in his or her chosen field, career, or profession. The Honorary Alumnus Award will be presented to Dr. The candidate can be an alumnus(a) or friend of Lyon College. The candidate must have achieved a notable degree of success in his or her chosen field, career or profession. The candidate has preferably received some previous recognition from contemporaries. The candidate must not have graduated from Lyon College.
Clifton Avant, Sr., ’78: Lifetime of Service Award
Clifton Avant, Sr., ’78, received the Lifetime of Service Award. Avant was recognized for his long career in economic development and his service to the College. Clifton and his wife, Nina, served on the Lyon College Past President’s Council as Charter Members and helped develop the strategic plan for the current growth of the College. He served as the Director of Entergy Louisiana Economic Development during the Katrina and Rita hurricane crises and assisted the states of Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas with the development of Gulf Opportunity Zones, used to rebuild the states. “We moved nine times to different states, and she always said ‘They need you, and I support you,’” Avant said.
Criteria for Recognition
The following awards have nomination forms available online; simply click on the title of each award to access the nomination form. For the Patterson Decade Awards and the Decade of Service Award, please refer to the list of 2016 graduates below. There shall be two recipients annually, one man and one woman.
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