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‘Walking the walk’ for more than a decade
October 20, 2023
FOND DU LAC – Marian University recently announced the Dr. George E. Koonce Scholars Program – which will be funded primarily through grants, corporate sponsorships, individual donations and partnerships with educational institutions and businesses.
Prospective scholars will come from areas of need throughout Wisconsin.
The scholars will be identified through outreach programs in schools and community centers or recommendations by high school administrators and teachers.
“Many kids dream about playing in the NFL, but few will make it,” Koonce said. “I want them to see there is a world of opportunity when they earn a college degree.”
Mark Murphy, president/CEO of the Packers, said he sees Koonce as an inspiration for future scholars.
“From his humble beginnings breaking into the NFL to his success at multiple institutions of higher learning, George’s journey has embodied passion and dedication, traits every student should have,” he said. “We are proud to see Marian University offer the Dr. George E. Koonce Scholars Program as an inspiration for students to pursue excellence in academics and their careers.”
Koonce, senior vice president for university relations at Marian, develops public and private partnerships for the university.
He sits on several boards, including the Packers’ Board of Directors and was recently elected to the Horicon Bank Board of Directors.
Koonce has a Doctorate in Sports Administration from Marquette University and a Master’s in Sports Management from East Carolina University, where he also majored in construction management as an undergrad.
