Pat Tillman was a born leader who pushed the limits in all aspects of his life. His values and growth mindset inspire the community to come together for the greater good. We at Arizona State University honor his legacy by sharing his student story (https://veterans.asu.edu/) and supporting all of our military and veteran students as they reach for excellence in everything they do.

Pat Tillman earned a scholarship to play football at Arizona State University. As a linebacker, he led the Sun Devils to the 1997 Rose Bowl after an undefeated season. He earned three consecutive selections to the Pac-10 All-Academic Football Team, a 1st team Academic All-American honor, and the NCAA’s Post-Graduate Scholarship for academic and athletic excellence. He went on to play for the Arizona Cardinals. In 2002, Pat walked away from a $3.6 million contract to enlist in the U.S. Army. While serving in Afghanistan, he met his tragic and untimely death.

While an impressive football player, many say Pat Tillman’s academic abilities exceeded his athletic abilities. Those who knew Pat Tillman as a student say he was very serious about learning, and he was always striving to make himself better. He earned a BS in marketing and graduated Summa Cum Laude in 3 ½ years. While playing for the Arizona Cardinals, he pursued a master’s degree in history from ASU. He continued to pursue knowledge throughout his life, reading voraciously and engaging in debate to develop and share new ideas.

ASU’s Pat Tillman Veterans Center (https://veterans.asu.edu/) provides student veterans and dependents with support and service throughout their time at ASU. From assisting with education benefits to connecting students to resources and helping them adjust to campus life, we’re here to be students’ new team. We salute Pat’s legacy by providing inspired service throughout students’ ASU academic journeys.

Learn more about the spirit of Pat Tillman by listening to ASU student veteran Chris Cadeau on “ASU Veteran Diaries”:   / christopher-ca.  .

Learn more about the Tillman Foundation: http://pattillmanfoundation.org/

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