Frank Roppolo '55 graduated from BW in 1955 and was inducted into the Alumni Athletic Association Hall of Fame in 1972.

The 1953 Exponent stated, "Throughout Baldwin-Wallace's Athletic History, there have been many heroes whose names are indelibly inscribed in the Yellow Jacket record book. But few names stand out any brighter than that of Frank Roppolo."

The 5-10, 180 pound southpaw joined his Akron South High School coach, Lou Juillerat at B-W in the Fall of 1951. He proceeded to clinch the first string quarterback slot and starting linebacker position on the B-W varsity.

Before a kidney ailment cut his college career and life tragically short, the stocky, curly-haired athlete recorded two outstanding seasons for the Jackets. In 1951 he accounted for 1,167 total yards offense which placed him seventh in the nation. The following year he strengthened the reputation given to him by the Akron Beacon Journal as "one of the finest small college quarterbacks in Ohio" when he completed 10 TD passes for 1080 yards total offense.

At the close of the 1952 season, Frank was named B-W's most outstanding player. He gained the highest honor ever afforded a Big Four player when he made both the All League offensive and defensive units. This was the first time in history that a player made both teams. Roppolo also received All-Ohio honorable mention honors.

Coach Lou Juillerat called him the greatest quarterback he ahd ever seen. "Frank was virtually a playing coach. He had that knack of knowing an opponent's weakness. I never had to send in a play when Frank was on the field. I let him run the show and he never disappointed me. He could run, pass, and call signals on offense and was the best defensive back I've seen anywhere.

The Frank Roppolo Award is presented to the Outstanding B-W Player in the Fall Homecoming Game each year by his brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity.