VIDEO: GALEN CRAUN HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY
Dr. Galen G. Craun, a posthumous induction into the Bridgewater Athletic Hall of Fame, is recognized for his lifetime commitment to his alma mater as an athlete and also through his work with the college's athletic program as a physician.
A Bridgewater native, Galen graduated from Daleville Academy and entered Bridgewater College in 1928. He competed on the Eagles' baseball and basketball teams and captained both squads during his senior year of 1932-33. A pitcher on the baseball team, Galen was a key member of some very good Bridgewater teams during the early 1930s and helped the Eagles to a number of wins while on the mound. Galen was also an active student who served as the athletic editor for Ripples, the Bridgewater College yearbook, and as President of the Monogram Club. During his senior year, he was selected by his fellow students as King of the 1933 May Day Court.
Galen received his M.D. degree from the Medical College of Virginia in 1940 and was a respected physician in the Harrisonburg-Rockingham County area until his retirement in 1970. He continued to be a part of Bridgewater athletics through his work as the college's team doctor for many years and also held the position of president of the Bridgewater Alumni Association from 1961-62. In 1958, Galen was made an honorary member of the B.C. Varsity Club for his countless contributions to the athletic program.
Galen passed away in 1985 at the age of 74, leaving behind an extraordinary tradition of service to Bridgewater College and the local community. In addition to his work with his alma mater, Galen was a president of the Harrisonburg Rotary Club, a district chairman for the Boy Scouts of America, and a long-time member of the Harrisonburg First Church of the Brethren. Professionally, Galen was a member of the Rockingham County Medical Association, the Medical Society of Virginia, the Southeastern Medical Association, and the Southeastern Surgical Congress.
