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University of Minnesota Athletics
Black History Month: Desi Williamson
2/26/2018 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.
Name: Desi Williamson
Sport(s): Football
Years: 1974 - 77
Hometown: St. Louis, Mo.
Occupation: Professional Speaker/Addiction Therapist
1) What is it you honestly miss most about the University?
I miss the college environment and the comradery of my teammates. I miss the entire experience, both academically and athletically.
2) If you could give the current student-athletes any piece of advice, what would it be?
My advice would be to never miss class, always sit in the first row, take copious notes and get to know your professor on a personal level. If they do that, they are guaranteed a successful academic experience.
3) Please share your favorite university or athletic event you've attended since you graduated and what made it so special to you?
I have been blessed to be the master of ceremonies three times at the M Club Hall of Fame banquet and had the chance to induct one of my childhood heroes, the late, great Charlie Sanders. It was a great moment for me, as a kid coming from St. Louis.
4) What are you grateful for?
I am grateful for my two beautiful kids, son and daughter. I'm grateful to have been a part of a University that is rich in tradition. I'm also grateful for the wonderful relationships with my fellow Gopher alumni, which spans more than 40 years now.
5) What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a time to pay respect to all of the people that paved the way, with their freedom and often their lives, so that I am able to enjoy the fruits of their sacrifices. It is upon their shoulders that I stand. I thank God for them.
6) What occupies your time now?
I am currently working in the professional speaking and training industry as a Hall of Fame speaker and when I'm not on the road speaking, I work as an addiction therapist at the University of Minnesota Medical Center. I went back to school to get my training and licensing at a time when most people are retiring. Retirement is not for me, I love the connection and making a difference in the lives of the people I touch through this wonderful work that I've been blessed to do.
Please visit Black History Month Central on Gophersports.com to see more profiles.