Cory and Priscilla Redding Family Scholarship

Gridiron glory is not all that motivates former Longhorn football standout, Cory Redding. Before a group that included President Bill Powers, Coach Mack Brown, and a host of family and friends, the Indianapolis Colt and his wife, Priscilla, recently announced their donation of $100,000 to establish the Cory and Priscilla Redding Family Scholarship in the College of Education. The gift is the university’s first from an ex-UT athlete while he is still playing in the National Football League.

The Cory Redding Foundation will support long-term efforts to help the endowment grow. Redding, meanwhile, intends to interact as often as possible with the recipients. He’s interested in giving back because he values teachers who keep students on the right track.“I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for key people in my life mentoring me and keeping me grounded,” he says.

During the off-season, Redding is completing a degree in youth and community studies in the College of Education, where Priscilla, BS ’03, earned her degree in applied learning and development. The Reddings specified that their endowment help undergraduates with demonstrated financial need. Growing up with humble beginnings, Redding says he has lived his life according to three basic values: desire, discipline, and dedication. He expects the scholarship recipients to exhibit the same spirit.

Redding, a two-time All-American and first-team All-Big 12 defensive end at Texas, was part of Brown’s first recruiting class for the Horns. After playing in 52 games at UT he started his pro career with Detroit, later playing for Seattle and Baltimore. This fall, playing for the Colts, will be his 10th season with the NFL. After retiring from football he and Priscilla plan to relocate to Austin with their three children.

“In the days when my wife and I are no longer here, our grandchildren’s grandchildren will hopefully be part of this process, continuing this endowment,” he says. “One hundred years from now, they’re going to look and see the Cory and Priscilla Redding Family Scholarship, and to me, that is better than any accolade I could ever achieve on the football field.”

The Cory and Priscilla Redding Family Scholarship was established by the Board of Regents of The University of Texas System on June 6, 2012, to benefit The University of Texas College of Education. Gift funds were provided by Mr. Cory B. Redding and Ms. Priscilla M. Redding.