2026 NJCAA Loyalty Award

Loyalty Award

The Loyalty Award is given to an active athletic director in the NJCAA membership that has worked to uphold the ideals of the organization. Significant to this award is leadership in an athletic program exemplifying excellence both on the field/court and in the classroom. To view a list of past winners, visit: Loyalty Award Past Winners 

Tim Bunton – Danville Area Community College (IL) 

Tim Bunton has spent over three decades in various roles at Danville Area Community College. In 1995, Bunton revived the Jaguar baseball program that had been extinct for 14 years. After a few crucial years of foundation building, Bunton's squad won the 1999 NJCAA Region 24 Championship, beginning an 18-year stretch of winning seasons until Bunton stepped down in 2020. Under Bunton, the program finished with 672 wins in his 24 seasons, bringing in two conference titles, one region championship, seven NJCAA All-Americans, and 55 All-Region 24 selections. Off the field, Bunton also aided in student-athlete success, with 182 of his 210 sophomores continuing their education after DACC.  

During the 2006-07 school year, Bunton was named Athletic Director after serving as Assistant Athletic Director for the previous eight years. As Athletic Director, he has overseen multiple sports programs reaching national tournaments, all while emphasizing a student-first approach. Beyond team performance, Bunton has been instrumental in strengthening program resources and facilities, ensuring student-athletes have the tools they need to compete at a high level. He has also prioritized fundraising and community engagement, building relationships with local partners, alumni, and donors to support scholarships, travel, and program development. Danville Area's athletics programs have thrived under Bunton's leadership, achieving consistent success in the NJCAA and maintaining a culture of student development. 

On a national level, Bunton has played a vital role in the NJCAA Division II Men's Basketball Championship which has been held at DACC since 1994. The tournament, deeply rooted in the Danville community, has grown over the past few decades. Renovations at the Mary Miller Gymnasium created a brand-new media room, significantly elevating the digital production of the NJCAA championship. Bunton currently serves as the Region 24 Men's Assistant Director and on the NJCAA Division II Men's Basketball Committee.  

For all 2026 NJCAA Honors and Annual Award Winners, visit: 2025-26 NJCAA Honors Announced

For all NJCAA Honors, please visit: NJCAA Honors Home