The inaugural members of the Iowa State Athletic Hall of Fame class have been more than outstanding collegiate athletes, they have been exceptional people who have done exceptional things.

“These are people whose contributions have had a profound effect on Iowa State University and the world. They have set standards to which others will be measured,” ISU President Martin Jischke told a crowd of over 350 people.

“We’re honored to have your names associated with Iowa State University,” Jischke said to the initiates.

Athletic Director Gene Smith said the inductees “have built the foundation for Iowa State athletics.”

Three of the inductees, Dan Gable, Gary Thompson and Ed Bock were on hand for the ceremony. Harold Nichols, Jim Doran, L.C. “Cap” Timm and Clyde Williams are all deceased. Ron Galimore, Yobes Ondieki and Nawal El Moutawakel-Bennis were unable to attend because they are living outside of the United States.

Merlin Olsen, a member of the National Football League Hall of Fame and the keynote speaker, said, “I congratulate this inaugural class for all their hard work. They earned their spots in this Hall of Fame line-up.”

Olsen said all the athletes possess three qualities — heart, drive and determination.

“I know that the honors we cherish most are those that come from our peers,” Olsen said.

Gable, a dominant wrestler for the Cyclones, said he was happy to receive a warm reception at the banquet after coaching the Iowa Hawkeyes for over two decades. “I’ve always felt close to Iowa State,” he said.

Thompson, a two-sport star at ISU, was humble at the event. “It’s unbelievable to stand here and be part of this inaugural class.”

Bock, an All-American football player, said “I’m delighted to be here. It’s great to get back to Iowa State and see all of the changes that have taken place.”

Nichols, ISU’s all-time winningest wrestling coach, was represented by his wife Ruth. Ruth said “he would have been very surprised, honored, thrilled and humbled.”

Doran, a football star for the Cyclones in 1949-50, was represented by numerous family members. His son Lant said, “He’d have been very proud and humbled.”

Timm, ISU’s legendary baseball coach, was represented by his son Tommy Timm. Timm described his father as a gentleman known as “a coach’s coach” and a “developer of young men.”

Williams, a former football coach and athletic director, was represented by Smith. Smith called Williams, “The patron saint of athletics at Iowa State.” Smith also said Williams was “a man of candor and honor” who made lasting contributions to ISU.

Galimore was represented by his former gymnastics coach Ed Ganier. Ganier said Galimore “left behind a legacy.” Ganier read a note from Galimore that said, “Being selected as an inaugural member is one of the greatest honors bestowed upon me.”

Ondieki, a track and field stand-out in the early 1980s, was represented by track coach Steve Lynn. Lynn said Ondieki was filled with “bundles” of pride, heart and determination.

El Moutawakel-Bennis, women’s track star, said during a telephone interview, “I will always cherish ISU. I will never forget the people.”

“Iowa Staters have every reason to be proud of their history,” Jischke said.

After hearing their accomplishments, that statement rings true.