Fulfilling My Legacy – University of Nebraska

Honoring two leaders of men

My grandfather had a massive influence on my life.

He was my best friend.

Something he taught me at an early age was the value of education. Nothing was more important to him than a college education.

He was denied the opportunity of education, however.

When he was in 5th grade, my great-grandfather came to the school and told him he had enough education to what life had in store for him — “pick cotton.” 

That moment traumatized him, because he loved education and learning. He talked to me about it a lot, and often cried as he was denied that opportunity.

So, when he started his family, he vowed that all 10 of his children would be college-educated. He was successful with all but one — my dad joined the Navy — and two of his kids even have doctorate degrees.

He even mortgaged his home three times, just to keep his promise. 

I think this should give you a good idea of who my grandfather was and how much he influenced me.

And then, there was also Tom Osborne.

I’ll never forget the day he visited my high school.

It threw me for a loop was when he walked into the building, he didn’t take an immediate left to the athletic department.

He kept walking down the hallway to the academic office. Coach was asking everyone how my grades were, what my attendance looked like, what kind of student I was, etc.

From that moment, I was sold immediately. 

Coach Osborne knew that I could play football. But, he also knew that the playing days will be over at some point.

He genuinely cared about my ability to succeed in life outside of sports — and that was something that resonated with me immensely; again, education. 

So, not only was I going to play football at Nebraska for the best leader I’ve ever known outside of my grandfather in Coach Osborne, but I was going to honor my grandfather and finish my college degree.

No matter what.