Frank Beeman graduated from Michigan State University in 1943 with a degree in Physical Education. During the same time, he earned a varsity letter as a member of the MSU Tennis Team. After leaving MSU he served in the Army during World War III as a paratrooper. Upon his return to Michigan State University, Dr. Beeman accepted a position as a physical education instructor and men’s tennis coach in 1947. Coach Beeman’s 1951 men’s tennis team was the first team at MSU to win a Big Ten Championship. He continued his education by receiving a Master’s Degree in 1947 and a Doctoral Degree in Educational Administration in 1960 from the University of Michigan.
In 1948, Dr. Beeman was asked to direct the Intramural Sports program in addition to his teaching and coaching responsibilities. He reported to Athletic Director, Biggie Munn until 1967 at which time the Intramural Sports and Recreative Services Department was moved to the Division of Student Affairs and Services. Dr. Beeman was instrumental in the planning process and the opening of the Men’s Intramural Building (later named IM Sports west) in 1959. He always maintained an open door policy for all MSU students, faculty and staff who wanted to talk with him. This was symbolized by an oversized doorway into the main office area.
Dr. Beeman began a Master’s Degree program in Intramural Administration in 1962. This was the first graduation degree program of its kind in the nation. Frank sent more than 50 graduate students into the field of intramural sports and recreative services throughout his tenure. After 40 years of services to MSU, Dr. Beeman retired in 1987. Currently, he keeps his connection to MSU by volunteering to read to visually impaired students on campus.
Dr. Frank Beeman has been a true pioneer in the field of intramural sports and recreative services. Programs all over the US have been enhanced by the graduates he inspired. Dr. Beeman’s vision has created a legacy which will live on for many years to come.
In honor of Dr. Beeman's contributions to Intramural Sports and Recreative Services, the Harris "Frank" Beeman expendable scholarship was established in 2005 to support students enrolled at MSU who are of junior academic standing and have been an employee of the Intramural Sports Department for two years. This award is intended to encourage students who have demonstrated the capacity to achieve educational and professional goals, the motivation to achieve these goals and the initiative to seek opportunities to further their progress.
To learn more about the different ways you can support the Harris "Frank" Beeman scholarship please visit the donate page on this website, make your gift online or contact the Student Services Advancement Office at (517) 355-7535.
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