Ripon College, Illinois College presidents spotlight local charities in advance of Saturday’s game

There is more on the line than a win for this Saturday’s football game between Ripon College and Illinois College. The presidents of the two institutions have agreed that the president of the losing team will make a donation to a local charity of the president of the winning institution’s choosing.

Ripon College President Zach Messitte has chosen the Green Lake Area Animal Shelter, and Illinois College President Barbara Farley has selected the Central Illinois Food Bank.

“The Green Lake Area Animal Shelter does phenomenal work taking in stray dogs and cats on behalf of our community,” said Ripon College President Zach Messitte. “While I wish President Farley and Illinois College all the best and look forward to a spirited contest, I’ll be in the stands sporting my red and white and hoping for a victory.”

The two colleges are members of the Midwest Conference, an athletic league of private liberal arts colleges scattered throughout Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois. The Division III conference was founded in 1921 and stresses excellence in academics and athletics.

“I’ll be watching Saturday’s game virtually from Jacksonville in my royal blue and white jersey, and, like President Messitte, I’ll be wishing the best for both teams,” said Illinois College President Barbara Farley. “I’m also cheering for the Central Illinois Foodbank that is doing outstanding work supporting children and families during this time of increased food insecurity. Go Blueboys!”

The football game between the Ripon Red Hawks and the Illinois College Blueboys takes place at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 2, in Ripon. Ripon enters the game with a 3-0 record, and Illinois College comes in at 0-3.