By BSU Alumni & Foundation
Published 7:00 am on July 21, 2026
The Bemidji State University Alumni & Foundation is proud to recognize Tom and Joanne Heaviland as its 2026 Philanthropists of the Year. The two will be formally celebrated at the Honors Gala on Sept. 25.
The Heavilands are the third recipients of the prestigious honor, which started in 2024 and recognizes individuals who significantly impact the university through their exceptional commitment as a financial and/or engaged supporter of the institution.
Allyssa “A.J.” Joseph, the Alumni & Foundation’s executive director, said the Heavilands perfectly embody the spirit of the award.
“Tom and Joanne are extremely generous with their time, talent, and treasure,” Joseph said. “They’ve done so much for BSU out of the kindness of their own hearts, and that’s what makes them exceptional recipients of this award. Like so many others, their philanthropy does not go unnoticed. We hope this honor expresses our deep gratitude for their partnership over the past 12 months and so many years prior.”
The Heavilands have given consecutively to Bemidji State for nearly 20 years and have a 36-year giving history in total. Their recent philanthropy includes a $250,000 donation to the For the North campaign, and they’ve given to a broad array of areas on campus, both in athletics and academics.
Tom also served on the Alumni & Foundation board of directors from 2020-25 and was the president of the Men’s Hockey Alumni Committee.
Tom is a 1980 graduate of Bemidji State and was a four-year letterwinner on the men’s hockey team. The Beavers won an NAIA national championship in 1979 under head coach Bob Peters.
The Heavilands will be celebrated during the Honors Gala, which will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 25 at the Sanford Center. Registration is now open for the event, and attendees can secure their tickets by clicking the button below or by visiting bsualumni.org/events/gala.
