David Troyer 51 Scholarship

David Troyer '93 was born in Goshen, Indiana, and graduated from Bethel College in 1993 with a degree in Physical Education. He went on to receive a Master’s Degree in Education Administration from Indiana University in 2002, as well as an Education Specialist Degree from Loyola University in 2010. Dave dedicated 25 years of his professional life to the School City of Mishawaka, serving as a principal, assistant principal, and Student Services Director. Throughout a stellar career, Dave was known for his steady leadership, his approachable nature, and the big smile he shared with everyone he met.

While at Bethel, Dave dominated on the basketball court, guiding the Pilots to their first national championship in 1992 and earning both MCC Player of the Year and All-American honors. He is listed in the Bethel Athletic Hall of Fame and he is considered by many to be the most dominating scorer in Bethel’s storied basketball program. Dave proudly wore the number 51 throughout high school and college, leaving a lasting mark on the basketball community. Dave was proud of the number 51, and he continued to embrace it as often as he could, even after his basketball career ended.

Dave’s greatest passion was supporting students who struggled—academically, behaviorally, or personally—and helping them find a way to stay engaged in school. He believed every student deserved someone who would listen, advocate, and refuse to give up on them. Much of his time was spent building relationships, problem-solving alongside families and staff, and creating pathways for students to succeed.

Dave would be proud and honored to know that his legacy lives on through the Dave Troyer 51 Scholarship Fund. All donations made to support this fund will go toward an endowed scholarship that will provide scholarships to students from Mishawaka High School annually.