Kevin Barry ’25 has been named the 2025 recipient of the Patrick K. Thornton Memorial Award, presented annually to the graduating Sport Management major who shows exceptional promise in the field of law. The award honors the legacy of Patrick K. Thornton, a renowned sports law scholar and beloved faculty member whose influence continues to guide Rice's Department of Sport Management.
“My experience as a Sport Management student—and particularly a Sport Law student—has been nothing short of perfect,” Barry said. “Before I even started at Rice, Professor Stallings called me to kickstart my journey to sports and entertainment law. That conversation, and the department’s continued support, truly shaped my path.”
Barry credits the mentorship of Sport Management faculty as pivotal to his growth, particularly the guidance of Professor in the Practice Stephanie Wilka, who taught his first sport law class.
“Professor Wilka’s mentorship in my first-ever sport law course solidified my ambition to pursue a lifelong career in the field,” Barry said. “She even played a major role in my acceptance to my dream law school.”
Wilka had equally high praise for Barry.
“Kevin is an excellent presenter. He is engaging, polished, and thought-provoking,” Wilka said. “He very aptly anticipates emerging trends, as demonstrated in his presentation on exploitative name, image, and likeness deals in college athletics.”
Reflecting on what it took to earn the award, Barry emphasized the role of community and mentorship.
“I am nothing if not a combination of many amazing individuals, all of whom I’m deeply indebted to,” Barry said. “Rice Sport Management created an environment where I could be a sponge—absorbing knowledge, mentorship, and real-world insights with zero inhibition.”
Wilka echoed that sentiment, praising Barry’s thoughtful contributions in class and his intellectual potential.
“He’s good at reducing complex legal concepts into digestible and seemingly obvious statements—an admirable quality in any good attorney.” Wilka said. “My belief is that Kevin will make an excellent attorney, leading with strong intellect, kindness, and humility.”
Barry sees the award not only as a personal honor but also as a tribute to the professor for whom it is named.
“This award means everything to me, as it allows me to serve as a vehicle to honor the late, great Patrick K. Thornton,” Barry said. “He wasn’t just a legal scholar—he was a father, husband, and mentor whose impact extended well beyond the classroom.”
Following graduation, Barry will move to Los Angeles to begin law school at the University of Southern California, where he plans to specialize in Entertainment, Media, and Technology Law.
“I’ll pack up my Subaru and drive west,” Barry said. “My goal is to become an attorney who uplifts talent across sports, film, music, and media.”
Barry also offered advice for future Sport Management students.
“As a Rice Sport Management student, you have the world at your fingertips—please don’t limit your horizons,” Barry said. “Do your due diligence, find a calling that lights a fire in your chest, and tell the faculty. They’ll put you on the right path.”
Sergio Rojas, a junior from Houston, Texas, is double-majoring in Business with a concentration in Finance and also Sport Management with a concentration in Leadership.