Former UT Football Player Endows Education Scholarship

By Joanie Ferguson in 40 Acres, Special on May 2, 2012 at 12:07 pm | No Comments

Former UT defensive end Cory Redding and his wife, Priscilla, recently announced their plan to endow a scholarship in the College of Education, where Redding is currently working toward a degree. His wife is a graduate of the college.

The Reddings broke the news to a group that included President Bill Powers, Mack Brown, and College of Education associate dean Sally Field at a ceremony at the Moncrief-Neuhaus Athletic Center last Friday.

“The feeling I have today is about as good as it gets,” President Powers said. “This is the blessing and the reward for anyone that’s a part of The University of Texas.”

The two-time All-American defensive end, who currently plays for the Indianapolis Colts,  says he’s interested in giving back to the College of Education because he values teachers and mentors who keep children on the right track.

“I wouldn’t be sitting here if it wasn’t for key people in my life mentoring me and keeping me grounded,” Redding said.

Redding also pointed out that ensuring children get a good education can’t be accomplished by simply writing a check. At the ceremony, he spoke of his intention to be in close contact with the scholars who receive the endowment.

“In the days when my wife and I are no longer here, my grandchildren’s grandchildren will hopefully be part of this process continuing this endowment,” Redding said. “One hundred years from now, they’re going to look and see the Cory and Priscilla Redding Family Scholarship, and to me, that is better than any accolade I could ever achieve on the football field.”

Redding with associate education dean Sally Field. Photo courtesy College of Education.

Tags: college of education, Cory Redding, Indianapolis Colts