Former Ole Miss Quarterback Archie Manning will be the 2016 recipient of the National Football Foundation’s Gold Medal to honor his achievements and contributions, the NFF announced Tuesday.
The Gold Medal is the highest and most prestigious award given by the NFF. It honors “an outstanding American who has demonstrated integrity and honesty; achieved significant career success; and has reflected the basic values of those who have excelled in amateur sport, particularly football,” according to the NFF.
Manning will be recognized as the 63rd Gold Medal honoree on Dec. 6 at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. Some of the past recipients of the award include seven presidents, one Supreme Court justice and Jackie Robinson, along with more presidents and CEOs. At Ole Miss, he was an All-American quarterback who finished his junior season with a 2722 victory in the Sugar Bowl. Manning was named the offensive M.V.P after he passed for 273 yards and a touchdown and rushed for another score.
He later was drafted into the NFL by the New Orleans Saints with the second overall pick. After playing 13 years in the NFL, he has served in roles as an investment broker, broadcaster, restaurateur, endorser, community leader and philanthropist.
Adding to his list of multiple charities, Manning joined the NFF Board of Directors in 1993, where he served until he became chairman in 2007. With his help, the NFF has experienced massive growth that is noted through the recent opening of the $68.5 million College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, Georgia. He has also helped with the creation of NFF scholarships and programs that currently distribute more than 1.3 million dollars a year to athletes who show accomplishments on and off the field.
