CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – The University of Illinois Varsity "I" Association will honor five loyal supporters at the annual Orange Affair on Friday as part of Varsity "I" Weekend festivities.
"Varsity "I" Weekend, held this year in conjunction with Homecoming, provides a special opportunity for us to honor great Illini who have made a difference, both in the broader world and in Illinois Athletics," Director of Athletics Josh Whitman said. "This year's honorees – basketball letterwinner Steve Lanter, former women's gymnastics coach Beverly Mackes Stevens, philanthropic leaders Mark and Carol Mestemacher, and long-time DIA administrator Warren Hood – represent the many virtues that we champion through our program: work ethic, selflessness, leadership, success, and loyalty. We are excited to honor each of them this weekend for their countless contributions to the proud history and bright future of Fighting Illini Athletics."
Former basketball point guard and 1979 Academic All-American Steve Lanter is being recognized with the Varsity "I" Achievement Award, the highest honor bestowed upon a member of the Varsity "I" family for post-graduate success. Lanter earned a spot in Illini lore for contributing to one of the most famous moments in program history, making the pass to Eddie Johnson on his game-winning shot over No. 1 Michigan State and Magic Johnson in 1979.
In 1981, Steve started Lanter Courier Corporation, providing regional overnight delivery service to the financial services, pharmaceutical and film industries. Following a reorganization, Lanter Delivery Systems was formed in 1995. In 2010, Steve became President and CEO of Lanter Delivery Systems. Today, Steve's company is the industry leader in overnight delivery of critical parts and daily stock orders. He earned dual degrees with B.S. in Business and Education from the University of Illinois in 1981.
Long-time Fighting Illini women's gymnastics coach Beverly Mackes Stevens will receive the Merit Award. Stevens led the Illini women's gymnasts for 16 seasons culminating in 1993. Her coaching career with the Illini began in the fall of 1977, and she helped guide the program from the AIAW into the NCAA governing structure during the 1981-82 season. Her 1990 squad won the Big Ten Championship while she was named coach of the year. In addition, five of her teams finished either second or third in the conference and seven of her gymnasts earned at least one Big Ten individual title. Six of her student-athletes also received Scholastic All-American recognition.
Three individuals were also inducted as honorary members into the Varsity "I" Association for their long-standing support of Fighting Illini student-athletes. Mark & Carol Mestemacher from Edwardsville, Illinois, have been instrumental in their support of the Illinois wrestling program, including a lead gift for the forthcoming training facility. The Mestemachers also work closely with University leadership to enhance resource sustainability in East St. Louis.
Warren Hood, who recently retired as Deputy Director of Athletics in 2022, served the Fighting Illini faithfully as an administrator for 36 years. His numerous accomplishments include leading the renovations of both Memorial Stadium and State Farm Center and securing what was at the time the most lucrative corporate naming agreement in college sports, to rename State Farm Center.
The Orange Affair is the annual recognition event hosted during Varsity "I" Weekend for all Fighting Illini varsity athletics family members and letterwinners. The 2023 Orange Affair will be held Friday, Oct. 20, at the Colonnades Club of Memorial Stadium.
