Simon Robert Greiner (BS ’16, Exercise and Sports Science) was a deeply valued member of The University of Tulsa’s Track and Cross Country Team, where he was a letter winner, a repeat conference champion, and was named an All American. Above all, he was a cherished son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin and steadfast friend. When he passed away in 2016 at the age of 22, his loss left a void in the lives of all who knew and loved him.
To pay tribute to Simon’s memory and legacy, his parents, Don and Shellie Greiner, created the Simon Greiner Track and Field Complex Gifts and Endowments. This generous investment will support the TU Track and Field and Cross Country Program for generations to come. To honor Simon’s memory, the TU Track and Field facilities have been named The Simon Greiner Track and Field Complex.
Don and Shellie Greiner say their son flourished at TU, becoming an excellent student and voracious reader, while tutoring inner-city youth and honing his leadership skills on the Track and Cross Country Team. Head Coach Steve Gulley described Simon as a team leader: “Simon brought a relaxed demeanor within an incredibly confident soul. He reminded us why running is so fun and enjoyable. He will always be remembered as one of the best competitors to ever wear the Tulsa uniform.”
Simon’s love of track and field also shaped his high school experience at Edmond Memorial High School, where he was a two-time individual state champion and anchored the state champion 4 x 800 relay team, and his hard work in high school led to his athletic and academic scholarships to TU. Simon was planning a career in coaching and teaching and was applying for college track and field graduate assistant positions at the time of his death.
The TU community is deeply grateful for these generous gifts, which provide material support for and foster opportunity in The University of Tulsa Track and Field and Cross Country Program, while honoring the memory and legacy of Simon Robert Greiner.