College alum is MTSU Distinguished Alumnus

Eddie Gossage, with his wife, Melinda.

Nashville native Eddie Gossage, who is in his 21st year as the only president and general manager of Texas Motor Speedway, said he “was kind of surprised” when informed he is this year’s MTSU Distinguished Alumnus recipient. Gossage graduated in 1982 with a communications degree from the College of Media and Entertainment (formerly the College of Mass Communication).

“It is humbling to think the university you graduated from remembers you all these years later,” Gossage said. “I have kept up with a few folks through the years. I follow the university a lot and talk with President (Sidney A.) McPhee.”

Known for colorful and memorable racing promotions and for being an innovator on the business side of the sport, Gossage gives full credit to his university for his career success.

“My four years at Middle were the best years of my life,” Gossage said. “They challenged me along the way. It was perfect. (My education) gave me everything I needed to succeed in life and achieve my dreams.”

Among many honors, he is on various halls of fame and the College of Media and Entertainment’s Wall of Fame. He has also served on the board of professional advisers for the MTSU College of Media and Entertainment and Speedway Children’s Charities Board of Trustees.

From 1960 to present, the MTSU Alumni Association has recognized accomplished alumni with the Distinguished Alumni Award, the association’s highest honor.