NNAMDI ASOMUGHA
Interdisciplinary Studies '06
 

Currently with the Philadelphia Eagles as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, Nnamdi Asomugha has played for the Oakland Raiders and before that, the Golden Bears.

A native of Nigeria, he grew up in Southern California after his parents left the impoverished African country. "I was taught from a very young age that giving to others is what we're supposed to do," he said. "My parents were among the first families from their area to leave Nigeria and come to America, the land of the free. Once they got here, whatever they earned, they made sure to send some of it back. And they made sure that their children understood the importance of giving back, too."

Asomugha is now a dedicated athlete, actor, and philanthropist. In 2010, he launched the Asomugha Foundation, which assists Nigerian orphans and widows with food, shelter, and vocational training. The foundation also mentors high-achieving Bay Area high school students of color. Each year, he selects students who meet his GPA and leadership requirements and takes them on an all-expenses-paid college tour of different cities.

This year, Asomugha will appear in his first feature film Fire with Fire, starring Bruce Willis. He has also appeared on Friday Night Lights, The Game, and Cubed on Fox Sports.

Photo courtesy of Nnamdi Asomugha