Dedicated Wildcats basketball fans receive Purple Paw Award

Shaylee Stevens AS ’20, BS ’21, MPC ’22, Marketing & Communications

Weber State’s Alumni Association honored Lois Richins AS ’60, MS ’82 and her husband, Keith, with a 2023 Purple Paw Award for their dedication to the community and WSU Athletics.

The Emeriti Alumni Council presents the award each year to recognize contributions current and former Wildcats make to the university.

“Receiving the Purple Paw Award is an honor,” Lois said. “My husband and I have enjoyed thousands of hours of sporting events over the past 60 years, including basketball, football, volleyball and softball games, so we sincerely appreciate the recognition from WSU.”

Lois, who graduated from Weber State with her associate’s and master’s degrees, and Keith began buying season tickets for WSU men’s basketball in 1975. While many fans support the team through good and bad seasons, few rival the Richins’ commitment.

When basketball season arrives, the Richins plan their weeks around the team schedule, making sure they can attend every home game. Their dedication has not gone unnoticed. Before their Purple Paw Award, in 1993, Lois received a Wildcat Club Super Fan Award. She can be found decked in Wildcat attire at every game, as well as the day after if the Wildcats win, and has vast knowledge of team lineups, stats and all things WSU sports.

Her support of WSU extends beyond the court as well. Lois serves as a student teaching advisor and shares her Weber State roots in her community. With Keith’s help, she continually looks for opportunities to positively impact others while championing Weber State.

“We feel Weber State does not always receive the recognition and attention it deserves,” Lois said. “The quality of education, the people and the community can’t be matched.”