graphic of a whistle and microphone and text that reads 'irv brown endowment fund - education, honor'

The Irv Brown Endowment Fund (IBEF) honors legendary sports broadcaster, coach, and official Irv Brown by supporting MSU Denver students in Sport Management and Journalism & Media Production through scholarships, professional development, and networking opportunities, including an annual conference.

Scholarship Details

The Irv Brown Scholarships provide critical financial assistance for students pursuing careers in sport business and media production. Each year, a minimum of two $3,000 scholarships are awarded, empowering students to achieve academic excellence and professional growth.

The application opens December 1 and closes March 1. Community donations are accepted year-round.

Events + Professional Development

The annual Irv Brown Sport Business Conference provides unparalleled networking opportunities, professional mentorship, and real-world insights from industry leaders and recent MSU Denver graduates. The event includes the Steve Sander luncheon, workshops, and interactive sessions designed to equip students with the tools to succeed.

Conference highlights include:

  • Expert panels and industry networking
  • Interactive mentorship sessions
  • Real-world career guidance and connections
  • No-cost professional headshots for all attendees

Read more about the 2024 Conference here

Potrait of Laryss Rodriguez

Laryss Rodriguez, Journalism and Media Production student

“The conference just opened endless opportunities, endless connections. Just to be able to connect with real people and hear their stories. I couldn’t be more grateful.”

About Irv Brown

Irv Brown broadcasting a sporting eventIrv Brown, a beloved figure in Colorado sports history, left an indelible legacy as an accomplished baseball coach, iconic sports broadcaster, and respected NCAA basketball official. The fund carries his name to honor his lifelong commitment to sports excellence, education, and mentorship.

Career Highlights:

  • Baseball Coach: First baseball coach at MSU Denver, successful tenures at CU Boulder and Arvada High School.
  • Broadcaster: Known as the “godfather of Denver sports talk radio,” announced ESPN’s first-ever college football game, and covered diverse sporting events for more than four decades.
  • Basketball Official: Nationally recognized NCAA Division I official who officiated six NCAA Final Fours and multiple championships.

Legacy & Honors:

  • MSU Denver Roadrunners Hall of Fame (2012)
  • Colorado Sports Hall of Fame (1997)
  • Colorado High School Activities Association Hall of Fame (2003)

Irv passed away in 2019, and his family’s generous contribution established the IBEF to ensure ongoing support and opportunities for MSU Denver students, perpetuating his spirit of mentorship and excellence.


 

Irv Brown Endowment Fund

Email: [email protected] l Phone: 303-615-1818

Main Office Location:
Physical Education/Event Center (PE) 217
Campus Map

Mailing Address:
PO Box 173362
Campus Box 25
Denver, CO 80202