Lamar University Athletics

Since 1963, Joe Lee Smith has been closely associated with Lamar University’s intercollegiate athletic program through allied athletic organizations and as a staff member.

From 1963 through 1979, Smith served as sports information director. In 1971, the Lamar student he entered and promoted in a Sport Magazine contest was selected as the National Campus Queen of the Year. During Lamar’s 50^th anniversary in 1973, he produced 50 Years of Athletic Excellence, a history of the university’s athletic program.

One of the founders of the Hall of Honor, Smith served as secretary-treasurer.
The “Big Red Award” honors any non-coach or non-athlete who has significantly assisted the athletic program.