Here is a website looking for suggestions for a commencement speaker at Syracuse University. I have several suggestions, but after listening to this podcast, I am convinced that former Orangeman Etan Thomas should be considered.
Is there any athlete who is more of an activist in this current era?
To call him a Renaissance man would be appropriate.
Thomas is a former NBA player, poet, philanthropist, FOBO (friend of Barack Obama), and he has been organizing Fatherhood panels (the most recent one was moderated by SU Professor Dr. Boyce Watkins) to help redefine what it means to be a man.
Before making his mark at Syracuse University, Thomas (the son of an educator) attended the same high school as the late Wayman Tisdale, one of my favorite jazz musicians.
When it comes to role models, Etan’s got my vote.
