-: Growing up in Hopkins, Minnesota,
going to Hopkins High School,
then having the opportunity to come down the road
to the University of Minnesota on a football scholarship
was a tremendous experience for me.
I... (laughs)
It was almost surreal.
Being able to take classes,
ultimately graduate with a degree in
Family Social Science with an emphasis in new studies.
But then also participate in extra-curricular activities,
being the captain of the football team,
it was an amazing experience that I truly cherish.
I'm certainly biased
and push a lot of my students to the University of Minnesota
because I think it's a great fit.
I think there's multiple opportunities for student life,
and opportunities within student life builds one's capacity,
and builds their lens in which they see the world.
I know that the University of Minnesota
is trying to be, and is,
very responsive to the diversity which it has.
I had the opportunity to be the keynote speaker
at the College of Education and Human Development graduation
two years ago.
The people that I saw walking across the stage
and the Twitter feed that I read tells me
that there's a direct passion and intent
around events in the common good.
That the mission of the university is alive and well
in each sector of study and student life.
It's great to have the opportunity to come into here today,
and send my appreciation to the University of Minnesota,
and I also appreciate the fact
that there' so much intentionality.
Not only, okay you came to the university,
potentially we've collected some dollars,
but now, we hold ourselves responsible
to advancing your career.