Giving of one’s time, talent and treasure is often talked about. It is seldom a reality. However, Thomas Westbrook Lynch has epitomized that trio of purpose for the betterment of many his entire life. Today the Drury athletic community recognizes an individual who has truly given his time, talent and treasure to the Panther athletic program: for decades. At this moment the Drury sports program is put on hold as the University recognizes Thomas Westrook Lynch, M.D. for his contributions to Drury athletics.
Tom Lynch began his association with Drury as a student. A proud member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, the native of St. Louis earned his Bachelor of Arts degree on May 30, 1965. A double major (Biology/Chemistry), Tom was a physician in the U.S. Army Medical Corps (1969-75) following his graduation from the University of Missouri Medical School. He returned to Springfield and opened a private dermatology practice. He recently retired after 41 years of practice. Throughout this time he was involved with Drury in a multitude of ways, but specifically maintaining a focus of helping the Drury athletic department in any way. An elder at First and Calvary Presbyterian Church, some of his community efforts include the Boy Scouts of America, Make Today Count and the AIDS Project of the Ozarks. He served as a Drug Control Crew Chief for U.S. Olympic Committee as well as the alumni board of University of Missouri Medical School. But his heart, his passion, has always been with Drury.
Tom served numerous terms as the Drury Men’s Basketball Booster Club President. He has been president of the Drury Alumni Council and served as a member of the Drury Board of Trustees from 1986 until his retirement from the Board this past year. His time, talent and treasure have touched the lives of thousands and over the years he has been a valued voice to the Drury administration. But it is for his selfless advocacy and support of all athletic programs, coaches, staff and, most passionately, being a mentor and friend to hundreds of student-athletes that he is honored today.
Two fellow board members, and also members of the Drury Sports Hall of Fame, were quick to sing the praises of Tom and what he has meant to Drury and the Panther athletic program. Lyle Reed (Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2011) shared his thoughts. “My wife and I have been following Panther basketball since 1974 and I have been a good friend of Dr. Lynch for over 25 years. I do not know anyone who has been a more avid supporter and follower of all Drury sports than Tom. Whether it was being involved in the booster club, providing professional medical care to the teams, getting to personally know the players, coaching staffs and their families, keeping up with Panther and conference happenings, or cheering the teams on from the stands, Tom gave his all to Drury. He is always touting team and individual accomplishments and becomes agitated when he thinks they are not getting the recognition they deserve.” Lyle concluded, “Dr. Lynch has been a outstanding athletic ambassador for the University and my congratulations on his receiving this recognition. It is highly deserved.”
Tom Stout (Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2006) echoed similar sentiments. “Everyone knows Tom has been a great ambassador for the University, especially for the sports teams. He gave freely of his professional knowledge for all the athletes, coaches and the athletic staff. It would be hard to find somebody who has been more dedicated to the Drury sports program than Tom.”
Finally, comments from Marilyn Walker, the wife of former Panther head basketball coach, Marvin Walker (Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2005). “Tom was the men’s basketball booster club president for several years during Marvin’s tenure. He was always more than willing and available to help Marvin and the basketball team with any situation, medical or otherwise. He also continued to be supportive and instrumental in helping Marvin find the best medical treatment available during his illness. We treasure all our dear Drury memories and friends, and Tom was one of the best. Congratulations, Tom.”
Tom and his wife, Saundra (Class of 1965), have two children, Thomas W. II (Class of 1992) and Heather, and a daughter-in-law, Natalie Agruso Lynch (Class of 1991). Drury is obviously interwoven throughout the Lynch family. It is most fitting that on this day, Saturday, December 1, 2018 with family and friends present, the Drury Community, is able to recognize and thank Thomas Westbrook Lynch, M.D. for his passionate support of Drury athletics as he is forever enshrined as a member of the Drury Sports Hall of Fame (Class of 2018).
