Connor Bain and Alexis Workman were awarded the prestigious Dr. Edsel Matthews Award during the 2026 Panther Gala, recognizing their exemplary achievements as NCAA student-athletes. The gala celebrates Drury's graduating athletes and showcases individual and team successes from the year. Bain, a standout baseball player, leads the Great Lakes Valley Conference in batting average and runs batted-in, while Workman excels in triathlon, cross country, and track and field, achieving national accolades and maintaining a perfect GPA. This award represents Drury's highest honor, designed to highlight athletic prowess, academic excellence, and strong leadership. The event also recognized several other athletes and teams for their achievements throughout the year.

By the Numbers
  • Connor Bain is leading the GLVC in batting average (.425) and runs batted-in (62), matching Drury's single-season record.
  • Alexis Workman holds the second-fastest triathlon time in Drury history (1:03:16) and has amassed a perfect 4.0 GPA during her academic career.
State of Play
  • The Panther Gala acknowledged high-performing teams, awarding the women's soccer team as NCAA Women's Team of the Year after a successful GLVC Tournament win.
  • Drury's Division I Hockey program was highlighted for leading non-NCAA teams with six awards after a strong season.
What's Next

The recognition of Bain and Workman sets a high bar for future student-athletes at Drury, highlighting the importance of blending athletics with academics. As Drury sports enter the next season, expectations for continued achievements will rise, particularly in improving team performance and individual accolades. Upcoming competitions will be critical for maintaining momentum as teams seek to build on their successes.

Bottom Line

The honors bestowed at the Panther Gala underscore the significance of leadership, excellence, and character among Drury's student-athletes, encouraging future generations to strive for a balanced approach to athletics and academics. The achievements of Bain and Workman highlight what can be accomplished at the intersection of dedication and talent, setting a precedent within the Drury community.