An Editorial by Board Member Cody Carlson

“Unless you fell off the treadmill and smacked your face, no one wants to hear about your workout.” – Anonymous

Oftentimes we are guilty of speaking too much about things that are uninteresting to others, things such as our own personal accomplishments. There are a rare few who you wished spoke more about themselves. Ron Francis is one of those people. His teammates and coaches rarely heard him speak, I guess he didn’t feel he needed to. It was enough for him to play, which he did remarkably well!

Recently, Ron joined other 2017 Hall of Fame class members Benjamin Becker, Steffanie Blackmon, Bill Hicks, Jeff Jackson, Bill Payne, Melanie Hagewood Willhite, and Jennifer Jordan Washington, and Wall of Honor recipient, Jim Daniel, for induction at the Hall of Fame Banquet. I looked forward in anticipation to the moment that he would be forced to speak! For a few brief moments he took advantage of the occasion to direct attention, hardly at all to his individual success, but instead to those who helped make him successful, who support his success today, of whom he is appreciative. He voiced testimony of God’s presence in his life. What he said was interesting.

Other members of the class of 2017 appropriately shared some significant highlights of their careers, but spent more time on exceptional people and beliefs they encountered along the way – that continue to push them forward. Remarks traveled from recollection to the present noting opportunities and struggles, and the discipline and belief required to achieve their best – then and now. As unique as the sports that they excelled in, so were the personalities and characteristics of the honorees. Though diverse they revealed commonality. What their common ground at Baylor produced, compelled one senior sports administrator, who has worked at other schools, to exclaim, “You don’t witness such consistency in other places. It isn’t only talent that distinguishes each of them, but also Christian faith, thoughtfulness and humility.” 

Baylor University realizes and embraces opportunities to improve. Even now, it is distinguished by the exceptional lives of so many of the people it produces. The “B” Association is very pleased to support our University through events such as the Hall of Fame Banquet that showcase the qualities and mission that make Baylor important and unique.

Sic ’em!

Cody Carlson
Football Letterwinner 1983-86
“B” Association Board Member

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