Darrin Duistermars '90 has delivered warm, selfless service and care for Hope College student-athletes, staff, fans, and visitors in multiple roles, most publicly as public address announcer for basketball, lacrosse, soccer, and softball games.

His impact extends far beyond his familiar voice. His inviting and uplifting spirit exemplifies recipients of the Norman "Bunko" Japinga Service Award. 

Duistermars became the award's seventh honoree on Monday at DeVos Fieldhouse during the annual HOPEYs celebration of student-athletes and senior student-athletes. Seniors Millie Costello and Tyson Williams presented Duistermars with his award.

"Darrin is the kind of person who lives out service without making it a big deal. It's not something he has to think about; it's who he is," Costello said. "Whether he's helping with announcing, taking time to talk with athletes on and off the field, or doing all the little things behind the scenes that most people don't even notice, he shows what it really looks like to care about people and the Hope community as a whole. Being around him, you can tell that service isn't just something he does; it's a part of who he is." 

Added Williams, "Darrin is the hardest-working, kindest, faith-led, most Hope-loving person I have ever met. Every time I see him, he has a smile on his face or is ready to share a story with me. Through my time at Hope College, Darrin has been someone who constantly pushed me to keep going, especially when things got tough. He encouraged me to grow into the best version of myself simply by believing in me. The love he shows to others is unmatched. He notices people, listens, and shows up in ways that make you feel valued and seen. His presence has shaped my experience here more than he probably realizes."

The Norman "Bunko" Japinga Service Award is presented annually to a Hope College faculty or staff member who demonstrates exceptional, above-and-beyond service to student-athletes and the athletics program. Voted on by student-athletes, it honors the legacy of longtime athletic supporter Norman Japinga.

Japinga, affectionately called Bunko, joined the college's staff in 1968 as Hope's first official equipment manager, along with custodial duties in the old Carnegie-Schouten Gymnasium and responsibility for the fledgling transportation department. He was the full-time equipment manager from 1974 to 1988, assistant equipment manager and head bus driver from 1988 to 1992, and after that, a part-time driver. He also served as an official scorer at baseball games.