Eric LeGrand receives degree, gives inspiring speech at Rutgers graduation ceremony (Video)
It has been a long journey since that October 16, 2010 afternoon when Rutgers defensive lineman Eric LeGrand suffered a severe spinal injury and was paralyzed from the neck down. Since the injury, LeGrand has worked as a motivational speaker and his optimistic outlook has inspired countless people across the world.
A little more than three and a half years since the injury, LeGrand, who recently earned his degree from in labor relations, delivered a speech to his fellow graduates at High Points Solutions Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
LeGrand, whose No. 52 was retired by Rutgers last September, received a standing ovation from the crowd of approximately 35,000 and he encouraged his classmates to follow their dreams and never let someone tell them they can’t do something.
From NJ.com, LeGrand’s entire speech is below. It’s well worth your time.
According to the Associated Press, former New Jersey Governor Tom Kean, the commencement’s keynote speaker, asked that his $35,000 speaking fee be used “to establish a scholarship fund in honor of LeGrand” and the 2014 graduating class.
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