Richard A. Nowak is perhaps the most notable scholar-athlete to graduate from Bartlett High School.

Richard, or “Dick” as many know him, starred in two sports during his high school career: football and baseball. He played on Indian varsity teams for three years in both sports, earning three letters in baseball and three in football. In addition, in his senior year Dick served as captain in both sports.

Recognition for his athletic prowess came after the football season in 1958 when the Bartlett High School Alumni Association presented him with the football most valuable player award. Later that school year, after the spring baseball season, Dick received the most valuable player award from the Exchange Club.

While the 1958 graduate stood out during his high school years, his achievements in college were more impressive. Dick Nowak went on to more academic/athletic stardom at the United States Military Academy-West Point. He played guard and linebacker for Army. His achievements at West Point included being named All-East in 1962 and 1963.

Also in 1963, Dick was named to the All-American football team by the coaches association, the Associated Press, and the United Press International. Since it was the era of the two-way college football player, he received that prestigious status for his performance at guard on offense and linebacker on defense.

The football standout played in the 1964 Hula Bowl with all-stars from throughout the nation.

While at Army, Dick received the Thomas West Hammond Award for being the outstanding football lineman in 1962 and 1963. He also received the Edgerton Award as the 1963 Army football captain.

Dick Nowak served his country in the Vietnam War. He currently is president of ELCOR Corp in Texas. Dick and his wife Marine have three sons; Jeffrey, 37, Matthew, 34, and Eric, 31.