Concordia basketball community rallies behind Hannah Lusthaus Hoop Dreams Award
A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to create an award in memory of Hannah Lusthaus, a long-time employee of the Concordia Stingers men’s basketball team. The effort is led by her mother Evelyn Lusthaus, family friend Stanley Shapiro and former coach John Dore, BSc 75.
The Hannah Lusthaus Hoop Dreams Award will be presented annually to a member of the men’s basketball team who exemplifies Hannah’s key attributes: a positive attitude, perseverance and a commitment to others.
Hannah was a deeply engaged member of the Concordia community, especially on Loyola Campus. As a person with Down syndrome, she participated in a work experience program for people with disabilities, holding roles at CJLO radio, the cafeteria, a science lab and the Office of the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science.
Basketball, however, was Hannah’s passion. After learning about the Stingers men’s team, she was determined to get involved. When no positions were initially available, she approached then-head coach Dore to ask if she could work with the team.
She went on to become a valued member of the program, serving as time and score keeper for 14 years. She passed away in November 2025.