Ex-NFL quarterback Jaworski tells alma mater YSU has created 'buzz' in America

YOUNGSTOWN

Ron Jaworski is known today as an analyst for ESPN, and he had a long career in the NFL as well.

Before the former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback was famous for those accomplishments, however, he touched down right here at Youngstown State University to play football, and graduated from the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services.

He came back this week to give the keynote speech at the College’s sixth annual Alumni Recognition Dinner in the Chestnut Room at Kilcawley Center Friday evening.

He and seven other distinguished alumni received awards at the event.

“On behalf of the university, we would like to thank the leadership of this college,” said YSU President Jim Tressel as he was introducing Jaworski. “The work of the alumni is extraordinary.”

He went on to say that Jaworski spent 17 years as an NFL player when the average career length is three years.

“He is at the very top of his field in the sports broadcast field,” Tressel continued. “His effort to become great has made him great.”

“I truly am humbled and honored to be here,” Jaworski said. “To be back has been eye-opening. I never thought that I’d receive an academic award,” he joked.

He went on to explain that he was amazed by all of the growth that’s taken place since he was last on campus.

“The transition has been remarkable,” he said. “And this night is about you and the great job you are doing for Youngstown and all around the country.”

“I gotta tell you how people see Youngstown,” he said. “The evolution over the last couple of years. Getting [Tressel] here caused tremendous buzz.”

“There was a buzz around America, then we get a great head coach in Bo Pelini,” he continued.

"Man, there is a tremendous buzz in this region, this community.

“Youngstown is becoming a hub right now,” he said.

Read more about his talk in Saturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.