University of the District of Columbia Announces 12th Annual Athletics Hall of Fame Inductees
WASHINGTON, DC – The University of the District of Columbia Department of Athletics is proud to announce the 2025 class of inductees into the UDC Athletics Hall of Fame. This year's honorees represent the legacy, leadership, and lifelong commitment to excellence that define Firebird Athletics. The induction ceremony will be held on Sunday, November 16th at 12:00 noon in the UDC Student Center Ballroom, marking the official kickoff to Homecoming 2025: Firebird Reunion – Heart of the District.
The 2025 Hall of Fame class includes:
Larry Overton – DCTC Class of 1974
A multi-sport standout, Larry Overton earned four letters in baseball, serving as team captain and Most Valuable Player in 1972. He also played two seasons of football, finishing as the team's second-leading receiver in 1969 and third in 1970. A true ambassador for athletics at the then-District of Columbia Teachers College (DCTC), Overton also competed in volleyball and bowling. Following his playing days, Overton enjoyed a distinguished coaching career, including a stint as an assistant under UDC Hall of Fame women's basketball coach Bessie Stockard from 1997 to 1999. He later served as an umpire in the Metropolitan Baseball & Softball Umpires Association, continuing his lifelong connection to sport.
Dale Bethel – DCTC Class of 1971
An anchor on the offensive line, Dale Bethel was a three-year letterwinner on the DCTC football team, playing center and offensive line. He helped the 1971 team finish on a high note, scoring 102 points during a four-game win streak, including a 20-0 shutout over American University. Beyond the gridiron, Bethel made a lasting impact in education and coaching, serving in Arlington and Prince George's County public schools. He coached varsity basketball at Washington-Lee High School, mentoring future Duke national champion and Olympic silver medalist Crawford Palmer. A proud member of DMV-Athletes in Action, Bethel also honors a family legacy rooted in D.C. education—his mother, Althea Mae Wheeler, was a 1945 graduate of Miner Teachers College.
Ivan Jordan – UDC Class of 1985
A decorated track & field athlete, Ivan Jordan was a four-year letterwinner and team captain from 1983 to 1984. He set school records in the 300m, 600y, and multiple relays. His 1985 sprint medley relay team posted a time of 3:18.00—ranked 10th fastest in the world that year by Track & Field News. Jordan went on to serve with distinction in the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C., earning Officer of the Year honors in 2004. His "The Joy Ride is Over" program led to a 25% reduction in auto thefts in the 6th District. A tireless advocate for youth engagement, Jordan organized toy drives, summer basketball tournaments, and authored educational materials, even directing UDC students in a play to raise awareness about auto theft prevention.
The 2025 Hall of Fame Luncheon and Induction Ceremony is a highlight of UDC's Homecoming Week festivities, celebrating alumni who have made lasting contributions on and off the field. Ticket and RSVP information will be announced soon.