When someone thinks about or talks about Auburn Athletics, a few legendary names automatically come to mind. Pat Sullivan, Bo Jackson, Cam Newton and Charles Barkley are easily Auburn University's most well-known and iconic athletes. While they do posses an inhuman athletic ability, they also have developed organizations and done many other wonderful things that are not often recognized. Here is just a few things everyone should know about the Auburn legends:
Vincent Edward "Bo" Jackson
Bo Jackson, winner of the 1985 Heisman Trophy, is easily on of the greatest college football and baseball athletes of all time. Beyond his achievements on the field, Bo Jackson completed his bachelor of science degree in family and child development at Auburn and has developed organizations in an effort to help several different kinds of people. One of his most recognized organizations is "Bo Bikes Bama." Bo Jackson started this organization after devastating tornadoes ripped through the state of Alabama on April 27, 2011, not very far from where he lives. During this event, Bo goes on a five day journey biking the entire state of Alabama and spending time in cities that were drastically effected by there tornadoes. All of the proceeds raised from his ride so towards The Governor's Emergency Relief Fund, specifically to build emergency weather shelters throughout the state of Alabama. Along with "Bo Bikes Bama," Jackson also has developed an organization called "Give Me a Chance Foundation." According to the foundation's mission statement, their purpose is to inspire deserving youth to become involved in sports by providing an opportunity to train at an elite level while emphasizing a strong commitment to education. 80 percent of the donations given to this organization fund academics, classroom supplies, summer camps, sporting equipment and training. The remaining 20 percent is used for fundraising and overhead charges. "Bo Knows" community service. You can learn more about the Give Me A Chance Foundation here.
Cam Newton
Cam Newton won the 2010 Heisman trophy, is a 2010 National Champion, and was the first-round NFL draft pick to the Carolina Panthers in 2011. Before he got too wrapped up in his professional football career, Cam Newton returned to Auburn University where he completed his bachelor's degree in sociology as a promise he made to his mother. After getting settled down in his new career, Cam Newton created "The Cam Newton Foundation." According to their website, the mission of this foundation is to enhance the lives of young people by addressing their socioeconomic, educational, physical and emotional needs. Under the slogan "Every 1 Matters," Cam's organization focuses on the three points: "Every 1 Plays," "Every 1 Learns," and "Every 1 Gives." "Every 1 Plays" engages youth in play, recreation and physical fitness activities to improve overall health and confidence. "Every 1 Learns" expands educational opportunities for children who are deserving, at-risk or from disadvantaged families. "Every 1 Gives" encourages Community service, holiday outreach and general charitable support to other non-profits and those in need. You can learn more about the Cam Newton Foundation here.
Pat Sullivan
Pat Sullivan was a two time All-American and the 1971 Heisman Trophy winner. While he did not create any major charities, he was an Academic All-American and graduated with a bachelor of science degree in business administration from Auburn University in 1972.
Charles Barkley
One of Auburn University's most well-known basketball players. He is an All-American, a member of Auburn University's All-Century Team, holds the title for SEC Player of the Year in 1984, and majored in Business Management while he attended Auburn University. On top of his outstanding athletic awards, Charles Barkley is also a strong supported of several philanthropy organizations. According to looktothestars.org, he supports Ante Up For Africa, ENOUGH project, Hillsides, LIVESTRONG, Not On Our Watch, Stand Up To Cancer, United Service Organization and the Wounded Warrior Project.
