Brian Dawkins Named 2026 Bond Distinguished Athletes Award Winner

2026 Bond Distinguished Athletes Award Recipient: Brian Patrick Dawkins Sr.

Established in 2013 by Margaret Segars Bond (’84) and her late husband, former Clemson golfer Steve Bond (’80), the Bond Distinguished Athletes Award honors former Clemson student-athletes whose lifetime accomplishments extend far beyond athletic competition. The Bonds created the award to establish a lasting legacy that celebrates Clemson student-athlete alumni who have achieved meaningful success in life after sports and exemplify the impact of Clemson student-athletes beyond their time on the field of play.

“It is always such an honor to be able to carry on Steve’s legacy each year with the Bond Distinguished Athletes Award,” said Margaret. “It’s hard to believe it is now in its 14th year. It’s one of my favorite days of the year to honor the recipient and get to know them along with their family and friends. Each one is a “grand slam” and represents our University and Clemson Family in a special and unique way”

Each year, the recipient is honored with a custom gold ring, an engraved plaque displayed in the Nieri Family Student-Athlete Enrichment Center, and recognition on gameday in Memorial Stadium. Eligible candidates must have earned a varsity letter at Clemson and be at least ten years removed from graduation. Honorees are selected for their exceptional character, commitment to citizenship, and outstanding service to their communities, families, and Clemson University.

This year’s award winner is Brian Patrick Dawkins Sr. – A Clemson man that needs no introduction.

“Brian is an incredible representative of what the Bond Distinguished Athletes Award was created to be,” said Bond. “Not only did he have an incredible career at Clemson and in the NFL, but also his dedication to serving his community, making a difference in the lives of others, and his strong faith, round out the qualities Steve and I sought to recognize when establishing this award.”

As a student-athlete, Dawkins was a standout Clemson Football safety from 1992-1995. During his time at Clemson, Brian was a second-team All-American (1995) and three-time All-ACC selection (‘93, ‘94, and ‘95), leading the defense inside Death Valley as a three-year starter. He was elected into the Clemson Athletic Hall of Fame in 2009.

While he had great success as a Tiger, Dawkins took his career to another level playing in the NFL. A second-round pick in the 1996 NFL Draft, he went on to become a five-time all-pro and a nine-time Pro Bowl selection – more than any other former Clemson player. Dawkins was elected into the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame, and has his No. 20 jersey retired by the historic franchise. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018, with many considering him as one of the greatest safeties of all time. 

In 2013, Clemson Athletics and Clemson Football established the Brian Dawkins Lifetime Achievement Award. The award is given annually to a former Clemson Football letterman who not only excelled on the field, but has dedicated their post-playing career to leadership and community service. 

After football, Dawkins has committed his life to inspiring others and investing in the next generation. In 2019, he established the Brian Dawkins Impact Foundation, providing inspiration, education, and resources to underserved youth, families, and communities. The foundation aims to serve young people who have the desire to make positive decisions in life, but just need the tools to make it happen. The Foundation supports programming in the three main focus areas – Career Readiness and Leadership, Cerebral Wellness and Enrichment, and Financial Literacy and Empowerment.

In 2021, Dawkins released his first autobiography, Blessed by the Best: My Journey to Canton and Beyond. The personal memoir explores how faith, resilience, and the support of others can help overcome life’s greatest challenges, transform adversity into personal growth, and inspire individuals to make a difference in the lives of others. To continue his mission of giving back to the next generation, 50% of all proceeds from the book have been pledged to the Brian Dawkins Impact Foundation. In addition to his Foundation, Brian travels the country as a motivational speaker and philanthropist. 

“It is no question that Brian has left an incredible legacy on the football field, but his greatest impact has come through service to his family, his community, and the younger generation,” said Margaret Bond. “What a blessing he is to so many. I am honored to be able to shine light on his accomplishments in life beyond his athletic career. Brian has profoundly touched many lives, and he is the perfect choice for the 2026 Bond Distinguished Athletes Award.”

Brian will be awarded with the Bond Distinguished Athletes Award on November, 14, during the Clemson Football home game vs. Georgia Tech.