It's something we've known around UND for a long time, but this fall a national audience got clued in. David Williamson is a philanthropic leader who isn't afraid to step in and help when called upon. 

The Sioux Award winner (along with wife Gay) and former Sioux football player ('68-'69) was honored in Chicago in September with the Spirit of Life Award at the City of Hope's annual gala. The event celebrated David's year long fundraising efforts in the "Sharing Hope" initiative, where he led a nationwide effort raising more than $8.1 million for cancer research, treatment and education. It's the most raised by the National Office Products Industry in its 28 year history. 

"The evening was very special, because it captured the belief that someday a cure and prevention for cancer will be found," Williamson said. "Everyone showed incredible support for the lifesaving work being done by City of Hope."

Williamson, the Executive Vice President and General Manager for MeadWestvaco, supports not only a football scholarship endowment, but an Impact Scholarship for UND football. 

David talked about his honor and his days at UND recently with Associate Athletic Director Josh Morton. Launch video player.