Jim Brunner Receives IWU Community Service Award

Jim Brunner, one of the most familiar faces – and familiar voices – in Grant County, received the 2009 Tony Maidenberg Community Service Award, which is presented annually by Indiana Wesleyan University.

Brunner, who is best known as the Voice of the Marion Giants, has broadcast nearly 5,000 local sporting events since he joined WBAT Radio in 1971. He also serves as the sales manager for WBAT and WCJC.

"Jim Brunner has used his high visibility in a very public profession to serve in both charitable work and public office," said IWU Vice President Keith Newman. "He has been involved in countless civic organizations – including IWU."

Brunner served 20 years on the Marion School Board and now is in his second term as a member of the Marion City Council. He currently is president of the city council.

Brunner also was instrumental in establishing the Grant County Sports Hall of Fame, which recently inducted its first members.

"Jim Brunner truly is an institution in our community," Newman said.

Brunner is a graduate of Concordia High School, Fort Wayne, and Indiana University-Bloomington. His wife, Dory, is an art teacher in the Marion schools.

IWU employees submit nominations for the award, which first was presented to Maidenberg and then named in his honor. Maidenberg, a former Marion mayor and Indiana State senator, now is Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Independent Colleges of Indiana.