General | 4/23/2026 1:47:00 PM

ERIE, PA - Two standout student-athletes both on and off the field of competition have been recognized for their outstanding achievements. It was announced today that seniors Shota Toyama (Kanagawa, Japan/Tama) and Josie Spano (Hudson, Ohio/Western Reserve Academy) are the 2025-26 recipients of the Dr. Richard "Doc" Beyer Award, an award named in honor of Beyer, who was a member of the Gannon history department for over 20 years. The award is given for outstanding achievement in scholarship and athletics.

To be eligible to receive the award, the student-athlete must meet five criteria: Involvement in community service, outstanding leadership, high GPA, graduating this spring, and has participated in athletics their senior year. 

Toyama is a senior Accounting major and member of the Gannon Men's Soccer team, while Spano is majoring in Physical Therapy. Both student-athletes have shown incredible academic ability and rank near the very top of their class with GPA. They also each have been active in community service throughout their time on campus and are two of the team leaders/captains of their respective teams. 

Congratulations to Shota Toyama (Kanagawa, Japan/Tama) and Josie Spano (Hudson, Ohio/Western Reserve Academy) for showcasing exemplary service, academics and leadership during their time at Gannon.