CBU President Dr. Ellis inducted into Riverside Sport Hall of Fame

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (May 30, 2023) – In May 2023, Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of California Baptist University, was inducted into the Riverside Sport Hall of Fame. The honor, which had been scheduled for 2020, recognized Ellis for his leadership in the community, including his contributions in the promotion of sporting activities and expanding sports programs.

The Riverside Sport Hall of Fame recognizes athletes, coaches, athletic administrators and community leaders who have brought fame or honor to the City of Riverside through their involvement in athletics.

Under his leadership, CBU has moved to the highest sports level in the NCAA. Initially, CBU competed in the NAIA and won 22 national championships in 12 years. Then the Lancers gained membership in NCAA Division II, with CBU continuing to compete strongly in the Pacific West Conference (winning the 2012 Commissioner’s Cup in their first year). The Lancers also won the NCAA Division II Learfield Directors Cup in 2018. In the 2018–19 season, CBU began a multi-year transition to NCAA Division I status as a member of the Western Athletic Conference, which was achieved in 2022.

On campus, a Recreation Center was dedicated in January 2013 offering a range of physical fitness options to students and employees. Additionally, the state-of-the-art Dale E. and Ann Fowler Events Center opened in November 2017 and is home to various university sporting events and on-campus activities.

In 2012, the Hall of Fame presented Ellis with the Chuck Kane Leadership Award for developing principal centered leadership, increasing productivity and quality of work while maintaining professional and personal relationships.