SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- John Elway boasts a breathtaking resume. He is an NFL Hall of Famer, a former MVP, and an executive with a Super Bowl title. He left the NFL owners meetings Tuesday to receive another significant honor. He heads to Washington, D.C., to to receive the Horatio Alger award.
"It means a lot," Elway said Tuesday.
Elway represents one of 11 honorees in this year's class. The award, which originated in 1947, is presented to outstanding Americans who exemplify purpose and perseverance in their personal and professional lives.
Past winners include Hank Aaron, Roger Staubach, Johnny Cash, Dwight Eisenhower, Wayne Gretzky, Philip Anschutz and Oprah Winfrey. The organization provides scholarships through the help of its members.
"Throughout his illustrious career, John has displayed great leadership and energy both on and off the football field. John has remained steadfast in his desire to excel professionally and donate his time and talents to initiatives that make a real difference," said Byron Trott, president of the Horatio Alger Association.
Per the Horatio Alger induction release, Elway has chaired the Elway Foundation since 1988, raising in excess of $6 million for charities that help prevent child abuse and treat abuse victims in Colorado. Elway has also contributed to numerous organizations among them the Boys and Girls Club of Denver and Men for the Cure.
The class will be inducted Thursday through Saturday. Elway will then return to Dove Valley and dive headfirst into draft preparations.
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