The Silver Anniversary Award recognizes individuals on the 25th anniversary of the conclusion of their college athletics careers. This award celebrates the achievements and contributions of former student-athletes who have excelled in their professional lives and continue to exemplify the values of collegiate athletics. The 2026 recipient of the award is football legend, Drew Brees. Drew Brees never imagined football would take him far beyond his home state of Texas—let alone lead him to become one of the most iconic figures in the sport. Even after being recruited by Joe Tiller to play at Purdue University, he knew very little about the school beyond its strong academic reputation. Reflecting on his journey, Brees highlights the remarkable opportunities and life lessons he gained as a student-athlete. From leadership and discipline to time management and personal growth, he believes that becoming a student-athlete is one of the most valuable experiences a young person can pursue. By...