Standing at 6’6” Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten has earned quite a reputation for his playing on the field as well as working in the community. Over his years with the Dallas Cowboys, he’s been nicknamed by many as “Mr. Cowboy.” However, showing his true colors, Jason has begged off the brand saying that former Dallas Cowboy defensive tackle Bob Lilly is the real “Mr. Cowboy.”
Over the years he’s scored honors and set records like being a two-time All-Pro, ten-time Pro Bowl tight end for the Cowboys, all-time leader in both receptions and receiving yards, placed second in franchise history in touchdowns and “has made a name for himself as one of the top right ends in all of football.”
In 2018 he decided to leave the playing field for ESPN’s Monday Night Football. But that didn’t last. He wanted to be in the huddle rather than the broadcast booth, so he returned to the Cowboys much to the delight of the team and fans.
All the while he and his wife Michelle Witten have been raising four kids in Westlake and established Score Foundation to “fund several new building projects and launch numerous outreach programs benefiting youth and domestic violence victims.”
In 2012 for his leadership on the football field and in philanthropy, Jason was honored with the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award that is annually presented to a player based on “his volunteer and philanthropy work, as well as their excellence on the field.”
Because of his reputation as a role model both professionally and personally, he’ll be the keynote speaker at Just Say Yes’ Tenth Annual Celebration — “Seeing 20/20” — at the Hilton Anatole on the evening of Tuesday, April 7.
According to Just Say YES Founder/President Dan Bailey, “Jason Witten’s heart for empowering young people is not only inspiring, but is essential for the success of the next generation. Students need positive role models to look up to and advocates like Jason in their corner. It is our privilege to have him as this year’s Celebration keynote speaker. We look forward to what will be a memorable evening.”
Serving as honorary co-chairs will be Kim and Joe Galindo, Peggy Wehmeyer and Robin Blakeley.
With a goal of $400,00, proceeds from the event will “benefit tens of thousands of K-12th grade students, parents and educators this year through Just Say YES programming, which includes: high-impact assemblies, Aim for Success researched-based wellness education programs and in-school peer-to-peer mentoring programs.”
In addition to VIP tickets to meet Jason Witten and other individual tickets options, tables and corporate sponsorships start at $2,500. Check here for details.
* Photo credit: James D. Smith ** Graphic/photo provided by Just Say YES