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Leadership and Legacy: Chris Spielman

As Chris Spielman was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame this past weekend, Buckeyes everywhere celebrated. Much was made in the media about the large contingent of supporters who traveled to South Bend for the ceremony. They were great in number and enthusiasm — a testament to the impact that #36 had on and off the field.

The story of Chris and his late wife, Stefanie, is well known. They graduated from Ohio State and eventually settled in Columbus. Stefanie received treatment for breast cancer at the University's Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Chris put his professional football career on hold to care for her and their young children. As Stefanie battled the disease during ensuing years, she gave hope and personal encouragement to countless women who faced the same fight. Together, Stefanie and Chris raised substantial sums for cancer research and by their life's example taught all of us lessons in grace, humility, devotion, and fundamental human decency.

At our June commencement, I was honored to present Chris with a Distinguished Service Award, and one to Stefanie, posthumously. As the crowd roared its approval, our graduating class — in all, a record 8,652 — rose to applaud. It was a moment that we will never forget, one that defines the power and promise of Ohio State. Our graduates could have no better role models.

Chris continues to give his time and considerable passion to his alma mater and the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research. As the sports pages are increasingly filled with unflattering news about so many athletes, Chris's leadership and legacy are drawn into even clearer focus. Our Buckeye pride knows no bounds.