Dr. George Koonce is bringing busloads of high school students from Milwaukee to Lambeau Field… but not for a football game. He wants these students to see that while there are 60 players for the Green Bay Packers, there are 1,500 more employees who work for the Packers organization on game days.
It’s part of Dr. Koonce’s larger game plan: the Dr. George E. Koonce Scholars Program at Marian University. The trip to Lambeau Field includes a Lunch and Learn where students hear about Marian University’s academic programs and athletics, along with the support services to help them be successful in college.
“Many kids dream about playing in the NFL, but few will make it,” said Dr. Koonce, a former linebacker with the Packers for eight seasons. “I want them to see there is a world of opportunity, when they earn a college degree.”
Mark Murphy, President/CEO of the Green Bay Packers, sees Dr. Koonce as an inspiration for the 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,” said Murphy. “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 own careers.”
Dr. Koonce, Senior Vice President for University Relations at Marian University, develops public and private partnerships for the university. He sits on a number of boards, including the Packers’ Board of Directors and he was recently elected to the Horicon Bank Board of Directors. Dr. Koonce has a Doctorate in Sport 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.
“I was blessed to have a successful career in the NFL,” said Dr. Koonce. “But I am also proud of my academic achievements, which expanded my world view. This Scholars program will lift up these students and help them grow personally and professionally.”
Funding for the Scholars program will be primarily from grants, corporate sponsorships, individual donations and partnerships with educational institutions and businesses. Prospective scholars will not just come from Milwaukee, but areas of need throughout Wisconsin in communities like Green Bay and Kenosha. The scholars will be identified through outreach programs in schools and community centers, but most importantly, they will be recommended by high school administrators and teachers.
