University News

Football Legend Pinball Clemons to Kick-Off Leadership Week at Bishop’s

SHERBROOKE QC - January 15, 2009

Canadian Football League legend and CEO of the Toronto Argonauts Michael “Pinball” Clemons will kick-off Bishop’s University’s second annual Leadership Week by delivering the third instalment of the Donald Lecture Series.

Clemons began his career in the CFL in 1989 after a brief stint in the National Football League. As a player, Clemons compiled a brilliant CFL career with the Toronto Argonauts, including a pro-football record for most career combined yards with 25,396. In 2000, after 12 brilliant seasons and with 12 all-time team records to his credit, Clemons hung up his jersey to move directly into the position of Head Coach. In 2007 he was named Chief Executive Officer of the Argonauts.

Known for a personality that is as electric as his style of play on the field, Clemons redefines the meaning of community involvement and has been recognized by many organizations for his tireless work with charities, schools and other community groups. In 2005 he was an integral part of launching The Argos Stop the Violence Foundation and in 2006 was named Chair of the Youth Challenge Fund by Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty. In 2007 he fulfilled a long-time ambition by launching the Michael “Pinball” Clemons Foundation to encourage academic excellence, infuse depth of character, promote health and vitality, and inspire generosity in our youth.

“Bishop’s University places significant emphasis on developing the leadership skills of our students,” said Principal Michael Goldbloom, “Pinball Clemons is a remarkable athlete, philanthropist and community builder who inspires social responsibility and civic leadership wherever he goes. We are delighted to welcome him to the Bishop’s campus.”

Clemons will address Bishop’s students, faculty and the Sherbrooke community on Monday, January 26 at 7:00 p.m. in Centennial Theatre. This free lecture is open to the public.

The Donald Lecture Series, sponsored by Bishop’s alumnus John Donald, brings speakers of national and international renown to the Bishop’s campus to provide insight, provoke thought, and stimulate debate on the most compelling issues and events in the world today.

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