Keynote speaker Bo Jackson, famed multisport professional athlete, started his remarks by acknowledging how touched he was by the words from the student speaker, Nevaeh Ortiz-Cruz, who shared her story of perseverance and how Trine University and its generous donors changed her life. Jackson shared personal and heartful stories about childhood hardships, receiving his first pair of shoes, his path to professional athletics, losing his mother, being a dad and grandfather and a question-and-answer session. He challenged the audience and students to always strive to reach the next level and encouraged them to live life to the fullest by giving back. As Jackson concluded his speech, he energized the crowd by telling them the goal of the event was to raise money and that he wanted to do his part in contributing to Trine’s scholarship fund. Solidifying his intentions and commitment, he unexpectedly added a live auction item for an overnight trip for four individuals to accompany him to a hunting lodge in Kenosha, Wisconsin. After the live auction started, he doubled it and two bidders left winners of the generous and unforgettable weekend.