The Original Fellow

Marvin Bressler

Marvin Bressler, a sociologist who shaped undergraduate life at Princeton from 1963 until 2010, was the original Princeton Athletics Fellow and the inspiration for this program. Chair of Princeton’s Department of Sociology for two decades, Bressler’s passion for scholarship on the influence of education on social behavior, the impact of society on idea systems, health care, cultural pluralism, and the development of sociological theory was matched only by his commitment to serving as a mentor and friend to the men's basketball team. His service to Princeton Athletics began during the tenure of his friend, the legendary coach Pete Carril. As Athletic Director from 1994-2004, Gary Walters ’67 created the Princeton Athletics Fellows program to honor, emulate, and expand on Professor Bressler’s legacy to Princeton academics and athletics. The Marvin Bressler Award is given annually to the member of University community who best exemplifies Bressler’s spirit. The Princeton Athletics Fellows program is the ultimate tribute to Marvin Bressler’s enduring legacy.

Professor Bressler made time to support and encourage the student-athletes and coaches who upheld the proud tradition of Princeton basketball. More than a devoted fan, he was a confidant, a philosopher, and a true believer in the idea that athletics were an enhancement to the campus community. He knew that student-athletes earned their stripes at Princeton. Professor Bressler’s eloquence was epic. So was his warmth, caring and humor. Hal Feiveson, who followed Professor Bressler’s footsteps as a fellow to the men’s basketball team, speculated that “no one, perhaps ever, [at Princeton] was a beloved mentor to so many students, and now alumni.” Professor Bressler’s strong and generous spirit inspires today’s Princeton Athletics Fellows to “carry on!” in support of student-athletes who will achieve, serve and lead—now and into the future.

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