In 1989, Dr. William Katzenmeyer, Dean of the College of Education, initiated the Dean’s Classic Run as part of USF’s homecoming celebrations. Faculty, staff, and alumni participated in a 1K or 5K walk/run, which became known as the “Fun Run.” Faculty members from the College of Education’s Professional Physical Education Department assisted in the preparation and management of the yearly event.
In 1994, Dean Katzenmeyer offered Dr. Hugh Hoffman, the chair of the Professional Physical Education Department, and the faculty the opportunity to own and operate the Dean’s Classic Run as a fundraiser for their department. With funding support from the Florida Lottery, the Florida Citrus Industry, and Publix Super Markets, the event provided funding to support faculty and student professional development activities for five years.
The Dean’s Classic Run became a popular homecoming activity and was followed by an alumni reception. The event was discontinued in 1998 when homecoming celebrations were moved to coincide with the USF football game at Raymond James Stadium.