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I researched organic and conventional agriculture, and how they relate to food security.
Physics is concrete and theater is freer. If I don't have both, then I'm not satisfied.
I want to do grass-roots social work in other countries. My Honors project shaped that decision.
Senior
DeKalb, Illinois
Elementary Education and Spanish Major
At the conclusion of the 121st Knox-Monmouth Bronze Turkey game, the
Prairie Fire football team gathered to listen to the seniors' farewell speeches,
just as they do every year. Team co-captain and defensive end
Maurice McDavid was one of the seniors who spoke. A four-year letter winner,
McDavid received the 2009 Midwest Conference (MWC) Sportsmanship award,
given each year by the MWC to one male and one female student athlete who exemplify what it truly means to be a "good sport," encouraging teammates on and off the field.
In his four years on the Prairie Fire football team, never once was this Dekalb, Illinois, native flagged for a penalty. In addition to his successful football career, McDavid is a youth minister at his church, where he frequently preaches; an Admission and Advancement Ambassador; a member of Intervarsity Christian Fellowship; a four-year member of ABLE, serving on the executive board every year; and one of six founding members of Gentlemen of Quality, Knox's newest fraternity of which he is now president.
Why did you come to Knox?
Coach Gibbons. There were ultimately a lot of factors that led to my decision, but Coach Gibbons and the facilities at Knox are the main reasons. Being here has challenged everything I believe in -- in every facet of my life.
What is your proudest moment as a member of the Prairie Fire football team?
Being elected captain of the team during my senior year is probably my proudest moment. I was ecstatic. My mom was ecstatic. It was a great opportunity and a great honor and helped motivate me. But [after my last game], I came to the realization that the highlight of my playing career on the Knox Football team was the relationships that I built. I always come back to Proverbs 17:17: ‘A friend loveth at all times; a brother is born for adversity.' With everything our team went through, I think we became more than friends -- we became brothers. That is something I will always carry with me.
Who has been most influential to you at Knox?
My coaches have influenced my life, without a doubt. The respect that Coach Gibbons gave me taught me how to give respect to others. I will always remember the first Sunday I was going to preach, Coach came and heard me. I was a little nervous, and it meant the world to me that he was there. There have been many men who have stepped in to serve as a father-figure to me and help me along the way. I would say Coach Gibbons is one of them.
How would you describe your career as a Knox athlete?
It has been great. I went home and visited a buddy of mine at the end of football camp this year. We were on the same side of the ball in high school -- he played guard; I played tight end. He said something to me that I've carried with me-‘Anytime, if you feel like quitting, just remember the other 39 guys get that itch to play come fall each year, and you get to fulfill that desire.' I was reminded of how lucky I am to have played college ball.
What do you want current Knox athletes to remember during their time here?
Find something to play for. I love that Knox College athletes come and support each other. As to the naysayers -- let them motivate you! Nothing beats hard work. You alone are making the choice to play Division III athletics. You don't have money or scholarships to motivate you -- you just have yourself, and you have chosen to play. So play wholeheartedly -- give it everything you've got.
 Maurice McDavid delivered the Senior Class Speaker address at commencement ceremonies on June 5, 2010. To experience the full address, please choose from the following options:
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