Longtime architect responsible for much of Belmont’s footprint to be honored in one of the buildings he designed, the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Sept. 29, 2026) – Belmont University has named architect, community leader and former Belmont Architect-in-Residence David Minnigan as the recipient of the 2026 Rick Byrd Character Award.
The award — named in honor of former Belmont men’s basketball coach Rick Byrd — recognizes individuals who exemplify Christ-centered leadership through humility, integrity, service and a pursuit of excellence.
As an architect and principal at Nashville-based architectural firm ESa for more than 40 years, Minnigan contributed to notable educational, health care, arts and community projects. From 2023–2025, he served as the University’s architect-in-residence, overseeing the research, development and design of architectural projects and facilities, with a special focus on developing sacred spaces.
During his career with ESa, Minnigan designed more than 15 of Belmont’s buildings — including the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, the Curb Event Center, the Janet Ayers Academic Center, the Randall and Sadie Baskin Center and the new Jack C. Massey Center, among others.
“We are thrilled to honor our friend and colleague, David Minnigan, with this award,” said Belmont President Greg Jones. “David’s work has shaped Belmont's campus in ways that will be visible for generations to come. Even more, his lifelong dedication to truth, beauty and goodness, along with his passion for drawing people closer to God, reflects the spirit of service and integrity that we recognize through Coach Byrd’s legacy.”
The award celebrates both professional achievement and personal character. Minnigan is widely regarded as a problem-solver and unifier, known for his ethics, grit, authenticity and heart for others. He has actively served Nashville throughout his career, including serving on the boards of the Nashville Civic Design Center, the Arts + Business Council of Greater Nashville, Leadership Middle Tennessee and The Store.
"What an incredible honor,” said Minnigan. “Being awarded the Rick Byrd Character Award is very humbling. Rick is certainly one of the finest individuals I’ve ever known.”
The 2026 Rick Byrd Character Award will be presented Oct. 25, during Belmont University’s annual Night of Hope celebration at Belmont’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. The event kicks off the Hope Summit, a gathering that brings together thought leaders, industry experts, investors and academic innovators to explore how higher education can help solve some of the world's most urgent challenges.
Previous recipients of the award include Milton Johnson, retired chairman and CEO of HCA Healthcare and chair of Belmont’s Board of Trustees (2025); musicians and humanitarians Vince Gill and Amy Grant (2024); Porter's Call founder Al Andrews (2023); and former Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and former first lady Crissy Haslam (2022).