[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 21 (Tuesday, February 6, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Page S419]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO RICK FUSON

  Mr. YOUNG. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Rick Fuson, who 
is retiring after 40 years of devoted work for the Indiana Pacers.
  Rick Fuson is a lifelong Hoosier. He was born in Indianapolis and 
attended Indiana University, where he played football and earned his 
degree in political science. Rick began working for the Pacers 
organization in 1984 as director of special events, and he rose 
steadily through the ranks. He was promoted to executive senior vice 
president of Pacers Sports and Entertainment in 2001, chief operating 
officer in 2008, and president and CEO in 2014.
  During his 40 years with the Pacers, Rick has played a vital role not 
just in reshaping the Pacers organization, but in revitalizing downtown 
Indianapolis. He helped oversee the construction of a new arena, now 
known as Gainbridge Fieldhouse. And he promoted it not only as the home 
of the Indiana Pacers, but as a multipurpose venue that could bring 
considerable economic opportunities to the Hoosier State.
  His roles as a longtime executive board member of the Indianapolis 
Chamber of Commerce, Visit Indy, the Downtown Indy, Inc., and many 
other organizations have put him at the center of the capital city's 
evolution into a global center for live sports and entertainment, arts 
and culture, and business.
  In retirement, Rick and his wife Karen hope to spend more time with 
their children and grandchildren. It is my honor to thank Mr. Fuson for 
his tireless devotion to the Indiana Pacers and the city of 
Indianapolis.

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