SALISBURY, Md. – Salisbury University joins the Ocean City community in mourning the passing of Steve Pappas, a dedicated alumnus, former student-athlete, assistant coach, volunteer leader, and supporter of Salisbury University Athletics.
Pappas attended then Salisbury State College and distinguished himself as a two-sport student-athlete. He was a member of the men's soccer team in 1975 and 1976 and the men's lacrosse team in 1976 and 1977. The relationships he built and experiences he gained as a student-athlete and assistant coach helped forge lifelong friendships and connections.
That connection endured throughout his life through his leadership, service and philanthropy. As a member of the Salisbury University Foundation Board of Directors from 2007-2015, Pappas generously contributed to the vision in support of the University's mission. His volunteer leadership helped strengthen opportunities for students while advancing the University's commitment to excellence.
Beyond the University, Pappas was a respected leader and supporter of the Ocean City community. Through his civic involvement, business leadership and philanthropic efforts, he helped strengthen the community he loved and called home. His generosity and commitment to serving others left a meaningful and lasting impact across the region.
"Steve's life reflected a genuine commitment to service, leadership and giving back," said close friend and former Director of Athletics and men's soccer coach Dr. Gerry DiBartolo. "He remained devoted to his family, Salisbury University and his community throughout his life. His legacy will continue to be felt for generations."
Pappas will be remembered as an accomplished student-athlete, dedicated volunteer and generous alumnus whose contributions to Salisbury University and Ocean City helped make both communities stronger.
The Salisbury University community extends its deepest condolences to Steve's family, friends, former teammates and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Salisbury University is a proud member of NCAA Division III with primary membership in the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference, along with affiliate membership in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (football, men's & women's swimming), Coastal Lacrosse Conference (men's lacrosse), State University of New York Athletic Conference (field hockey), and Colonial Women's Golf Conference (women's golf). With over 500 student-athletes in 23 varsity sports, SU is recognized as one of the nation's most competitive intercollegiate athletics programs regardless of division, featuring dedicated coaches and staff that foster excellence on and off the field. The Sea Gulls have won a combined 23 team national championships, 26 individual national championships, and 211 conference championships, and have produced 54 Academic All-Americans.
To Make Tomorrow Yours at Salisbury University, and learn more about Sea Gull Athletics' tradition of excellence, visit SUSeaGulls.com or follow on social media @SUSeaGulls.
