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University of Minnesota Athletics
Black History Month: Archie Givens
2/28/2017 12:00:00 AM | Football
In honor of Black History Month, Gopher Athletics is celebrating those who made us great. Throughout February, GopherSports.com will share short interviews with African-American alumni from almost every Gopher program. In these interviews, former student-athletes reflect on their time at the U of M, provide advice to current Gophers and share what Black History Month means to them personally.
Archie Givens
Sport: Football
Years: 1962-66
Graduation Year: 1966
Hometown: Minneapolis, Minn.
Occupation: Real Estate Developer
What is it you miss most about the University?
I miss being in an environment dedicated to learning and education.
If you could give the current student-athletes any piece of advice, what would it be?
Be honored and proud to have the opportunity to play and take your education seriously for the opportunities it provides for your future.
Please share your favorite university or athletic event you've attended since you graduated and what made it so special to you?
I was honored to be the grand marshal for the homecoming parade last year and it was special to me because it represented not only my time at the University, but the lasting connections and impressions it has had on my life.
What are you grateful for?
I am grateful for the supportive network that the University provides and for the opportunities I have had -- for the University's support of the Archie Givens Sr. Collection of African American literature, the volunteer opportunities with the Alumni Association, and most recently with the opportunity to serve on the University of Minnesota Foundation Board of Trustees. The U has given me a lifetime of like-minded people to connect with who remain dedicated to higher education and the impact it has on our communities.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a way to remind future generations of the work that has been done and the work that needs to be done in furthering equality and opportunity. It provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase people and history that might otherwise go unrecognized.
What occupies your time now?
I own and operate a real estate development company that specializes in affordable housing and I am president of the Givens Foundation for African American Literature. I continue to serve on several non-profit boards in the community.