GORHAM, Maine – The University of Southern Maine Department of Athletics has announced that Jon Paradise, long-time public address announcer and benefactor, is the recipient of the 2026 David F. Drew III Service Award. He will receive the award as part of the 40^th Annual Husky Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremony on Sunday, September 27 (5:00 pm) at the Italian Heritage Center in Portland, Maine
 
The Drew Award is given annually by the Department of Athletics to someone who distinguishes themselves with volunteer service to the athletic department.
 
"It is such an honor to receive this Award, especially knowing all that Dusty Drew stood for and contributed to the University," said Paradise. "To be included with his name means a lot. Being involved in USM Athletics is very special to me and provides an opportunity to give back to my alma mater."
 
Paradise, a Southern Maine graduate twice-over, has been involved in Southern Maine Athletics in various ways over the past 25 years. Many Husky fans will recognize his voice as the main public address announcer for Huskies' basketball and baseball programs over the past eight years.  In addition to his work on the mic, Paradise has served as a member of the University's Alumni Engagement Council (AEC). The mission of the AEC is to serve as a liaison between all graduates of the University and its predecessor institutions and the University of Southern Maine. He also serves as a member of the USM Athletic Advisory Council.
 
When he is not hyping up the fans at Hill Gym or Flaherty Field, Paradise serves as Senior Vice President for Communications, Marketing & Community Engagement at Town & Country Federal Credit Union. A decorated public relations professional, he earned Edward R. Bernays Award in 2010 from the Maine Public Relations Council (MPRC). The Bernays Achievement Award is the highest honor bestowed by the MPRC to a single practitioner. In 2022, Paradise earned the Midge Vreeland Public Service Award from the MPRC. The Vreeland Award recognizes an outstanding public relations professional for his or her dedicated commitment and service to the community.
 
Paradise earned his undergraduate degree in Communications in 1987 and completed his Master's degree in Public Policy & Management in 1999 from the Muskie School of Public Affairs. He has served on the boards of the Maine Public Relations Council, March of Dimes, Children's Museum and Theatre of Maine, and ProsperityME, and currently holds board positions with Maine Children's Cancer Program and the Maine Jump$tart Coalition.
 
 
 
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