Photo Via Candice Ward USA Today Sports
Four-time NBA Champion LeBron James may be given an honorary degree by Ohio State.
James, a native of Akron, Ohio, and a supporter and donor to Ohio State Athletics, will be a topic of discussion on Wednesday, when Ohio State’s board of trustees will vote on whether the former four-time MVP will receive a Doctor of Public Service degree.
“Born in Akron, Ohio, LeBron Raymone James Sr. is a professional basketball player with a dedication to community engagement and improving the lives of children and families through education, opportunities, and community resources,” notes from the Board of Trustees meeting said. “Just as he’s elevated the game of basketball, LeBron has redefined philanthropy to create a revolutionary model for community building in his hometown of Akron, Ohio.”
James, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, has also made strides to improve his hometown of Akron, Ohio, through the formation of the LeBron James Family Foundation and his “I PROMISE program.”
“Recognizing the life-changing importance of education, The LeBron James Family Foundation invest its time, resources, and attention in the kids of LeBron’s hometown of Akron, Ohio,” the Foundation’s website reads. “Through its I PROMISE program, the foundation serves more than 1,400 Akron-area students by providing them with the programs, support, and mentors they need to succeed in school and beyond.”
Not only has James attended multiple Buckeye football games, including their most recent national championship win over Notre Dame on Jan. 20, but he has also gifted the football team, and men’s and women’s basketball programs with cleats, sneakers and headphones.
