Brian Ford Named 2025 Recipient of Dedman College’s Cecil B. Day Ethics Award

April 14, 2025
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Brian Ford, COO of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Brian Ford, chief operating officer of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and a graduate of the Dedman College of Hospitality, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Cecil B. Day Ethics Award.

A respected figure in sports hospitality, Ford has spent nearly two decades shaping one of the NFL’s top fan experiences. Since joining the Buccaneers in 2006, he has led the team’s day-to-day business operations and helped maintain their long-standing No. 1 ranking in NFL customer service. Under his leadership, the Buccaneers have earned top honors in the league’s annual Voice of the Fan report four times in the past five seasons.

Ford’s leadership philosophy is grounded in humility, service, and a deep commitment to his community. For 18 seasons, he has dedicated himself to honoring military members—organizing game-day experiences for service members and their families, and supporting veterans transitioning to civilian careers. In 2024, he was nominated for the NFL’s Salute to Service Award in recognition of these efforts.

A Miramar native, Ford serves on advisory boards for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay, and Special Olympics Florida. As a long-time supporter of the Cut for a Cure campaign, he has helped raise more than $110,000 for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.

Ford earned a bachelor’s degree in hospitality administration from Florida State University in 1989. He was inducted into the Dedman College Hall of Fame in 2018 and currently serves on the college’s Dean’s Council.

Ford’s dedication to ethical leadership and his commitment to excellence reflect the core values of Dedman College. He will be honored during a ceremony on Aug. 28, 2025.

Established by the family of Cecil B. Day Sr. in partnership with Florida State University, the Cecil B. Day Ethics Award honors hospitality leaders who exemplify integrity, humility, and a commitment to ethical leadership. Inspired by Day’s legacy of treating others with dignity and respect, the award recognizes individuals whose professional success is grounded in strong values and servant leadership.