Richard Kempster Degener (March 14, 1912 – August 24, 1995) was an American diver and NCAA titlist who swam for the University of Michigan and the Detroit Athletic Club.

[3] He told news accounts that he stopped lessons after learning the jack knife and front and back somersaults, but knew he needed to continue training after taking only third place among three entrants in one of his first competitions.

"[2] Degener never lost a diving contest in college during the three years he represented Michigan from 1931 to 1934 as he took the Big Ten Conference and National Collegiate championship.

He won four outdoor AAU Nationals in the high board representing the Detroit Athletic Club, and three NCAA titles for the University of Michigan.

[4] A handsome athlete with a striking physical presentation and a considerable degree of celebrity and recognition, he later worked as a clothing salesman, and a manufacturer's representative.

[6] The plaque had five "medallions" featuring athletes, which were originally a baseball, football, and hockey player, a power boat racer, and a boxer.