BEDFORD – Jeff Callahan, the former coach and athletic director at Bedford North Lawrence High School, received the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash award—the state’s highest honor—during the 2024 Bedford Chamber Dinner on August 15.
Representative Chris May presented the award, highlighting Callahan’s remarkable community impact and unwavering commitment to student-athletes. May commended Callahan as a “driving force” in the success of Lawrence County’s sports programs, emphasizing that Callahan’s name is synonymous with excellence whenever others hear May is from Bedford.
“Jeff Callahan has had a profound impact on thousands of student-athletes and brought millions of dollars into our local business community,” May said. “His unwavering commitment to promoting and supporting our young people is truly commendable.”
Callahan’s distinguished career in education spans over 30 years, with a strong emphasis on athletic programs at Bedford North Lawrence and in his own home. Alongside his wife, Paige, he raised two accomplished collegiate athletes, Brandt and Whitt, while their daughter, Merritt, is currently pursuing a pharmacy degree at Butler University.
“Jeff’s dedication to our student-athletes and community is truly inspiring,” May added. “He is a deserving recipient of the Sagamore of the Wabash.”
Callahan holds degrees from Vanderbilt University and Indiana Wesleyan University, bringing 33 years of experience in teaching and administration to his career. Most notably, he served as the Athletic Director at Bedford North Lawrence (BNL) since 2003, retiring in early 2024. Under his leadership, BNL achieved an impressive 69 Sectional Championships, 18 Regional Championships, 3 Semi-State Championships, and 5 State Championships.
