Cox Named Humanitarian Award Winner

Ethan Cox receives 15th Hockey Humanitarian Award from BNY Mellon's Chuck Long. Photo by Jim Rosvold

DETROIT, MICH  – After being a finalist for the previous two seasons, Colgate’s Ethan Cox (Richmond, B.C.) has been named the 15^th recipient of the BNY Mellon Wealth Management Hockey Humanitarian Award, it was announced Friday evening at Ford Field, the site of the 2010 NCAA Men’s Frozen Four.

The award, which was instituted 1996, is given out annually to the college hockey player that embraces humanitarian efforts that help out a community, a certain philanthropy, or a cause.  The committee announced Cox as one of seven finalists back in February.

“I am extremely excited and honored to be recognized as this years recipient for the Hockey Humanitarian Award,” said Cox.  “This recognition speaks volumes to the following and dedication that the men’s ice hockey team and fans have to the betterment of their community.  To be recognized for such an award is truly an honor and I hope that it will inspire other people to get involved within their local communities.”

Ever since stepping foot on the Colgate campus back in August of 2006, Cox has been extremely involved in philanthropic events both on a local and national level.  As a freshman, he organized a weekend-long fundraising benefit through the Make a Wish Foundation in honor eight-year old Miranda Hadlock.

During the last three holiday seasons, Cox arranged canned food and toy drives to help local families in Hamilton and Madison County enjoy the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays a bit more.  On November 21, Cox’s 2009 drive raised over 1,000 pounds of non-perishable food items, 150 toys and $650 in cash – his best results in three years.  The proceeds went directly to the Hamilton Food Cupboard and the Interfaith Holiday Council.  The previous year drives happened in separate weekends – canned food drive right before Thanksgiving, while the toy drive was held closer to Christmas.  Overall, he and his fellow teammates have raised over $14,000 in cash and donated items for various local and national charities.

Cox was also active in raising awareness of cancer on campus as well as helping raise $25,000 for the American Cancer Society.  During his time at Colgate, he worked with the football team to encourage students to be tested for potential bone marrow matches.  In addition, he played a role in helping the Colgate women’s soccer team raise funds to help with the costs of a student-athlete’s treatment as well as for the American Cancer Society in general.  He also spearheaded a few “Facing off against Cancer” series in which supporters can donate a flat rate or put fourth a certain amount per face-off win.  He also served as a guest speaker at “Drink4Pink” which promoted awareness of breast cancer.

Among other events, he captained Colgate’s MS Walk team, which raised $5,702 in total – the 29^th highest total in the state and second highest at Utica site.  Cox also finished runner-up for Mr. Colgate, which raised money for a local youth arts project.  Participants were judged in the categories of swimwear, talent, eveningwear and interview.

Cox’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed.  In the summer of 2009, he was honored with the Hamilton Business Alliance Community Service Award for his efforts.

The BNY Mellon Hockey Humanitarian Award is open to any male or female collegiate hockey player from any NCAA Division level.