By Darin Introduction
On January 9, 1916, Jerome “Brud” Holland was born in Auburn, New York. His story is one of sheer grit and determination, beginning with his impressive career as a standout end at Cornell University, which ultimately launched a lifetime of historic achievements that transcended sports, reaching the highest levels of academia, diplomacy, and finance.
Football Bio
January 9, 1916 – Auburn, New York – Jerome “Brud” Holland, the great end from Cornell, was born. His bio on footballfoundation.org is impressive. Brud came from a large family with 12 kids. Money was tight. As an African-American wanting to attend Cornell and play football, he had to work hard. Brud worked his way through college by tending furnaces and washing dishes. He still managed straight A’s. He also played excellent football and made the All-America team twice. His best game came in 1937 against Colgate, when he caught a touchdown and scored on two end-around plays. The NFF placed Brud Holland in their College Football Hall of Fame in 1965. Brud’s ambition led to a great life. He was president of two universities, U.S. ambassador to Sweden from 1970 to 1972, charmed the American Red Cross, chaired the Salvation Army and Planned Parenthood, and became the first African American director of the New York Stock Exchange. That is an accomplished life!
Conclusion
Brud Holland’s life wasn’t just a series of accomplishments; it was a blueprint for breaking racial and professional barriers. His success, deeply rooted in the discipline he learned while working his way through Cornell and excelling in football, reverberated far beyond the stadium. From the gridiron to the halls of diplomacy and Wall Street, his impact was profound, ensuring that the legacy of Jerome “Brud” Holland remains an enduring symbol of American achievement.
Accolades and Accomplishments
- Cornell All-America Team (Twice): Recognized as one of the nation’s premier football ends while at Cornell.
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1965): Enshrined by the National Football Foundation (NFF).
- Academic Excellence: Maintained straight A’s while working multiple jobs (tending furnaces, washing dishes) to pay for college.
- University President: Served as president of two universities (Delaware State College and Hampton Institute).
- U.S. Ambassador: Appointed U.S. Ambassador to Sweden (1970–1972).
- Business Pioneer: Became the first African American Director of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).
- Philanthropic Leadership: Chaired major organizations, including the Salvation Army and Planned Parenthood, and was involved with the American Red Cross.
