The time has come for NFL and college football Hall of Famer and Erie native Fred Biletnikoff to return to Erie and receive the 2024 Thomas B. Hagen Dignitas Award. On May 21, “From Erie to the Hall of Fame: Life, Legacy of Fred Biletnikoff – the 2024 Recipient of the Thomas B. Hagen Dignitas Award” will be held at 7 p.m. at the Jefferson Educational Society, 3207 State St., Erie, PA 16508.
Each year since 2011 during its Global Summit, the JES recognizes an Erie native, or someone who has spent significant time in the community, with the Thomas B. Hagen Dignitas Award. The award, named for one of Erie’s leading citizens, Thomas B. Hagen, honors individuals who have achieved greatness in their fields, made significant contributions to the vitality of American democracy, and have a lasting impact on society. Past recipients include Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Edward Bolton, Jr.; the Rev. Charles Brock; Robert Pape; Eleanor Smeal, Hon. Tom Ridge, Sister Joan Chittister, and others. Biletnikoff was set to receive the honor during the 2024 Global Summit, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the event had to be rescheduled.
“We are excited to announce the new date for this event, and to welcome Mr. Biletnikoff to Erie to receive this award,” said Dr. Ferki Ferati, JES President. “Celebrating our homegrown and home-nurtured talent is such an important part of each year’s Global Summit. Through his work on and off the field, from being among the exceptional at his position, to his work with The Biletnikoff Foundation, Mr. Biletnikoff has shown determination, grit, resilience, and how to lead a life well lived and served.”
Biletnikoff starred as a wide receiver for the Oakland Raiders in the American Football League and National Football League for 14 seasons and later was an assistant coach with the team. So talented and sure-handed was Biletnikoff as a collegian that the annual top receiver award was named in his honor.
Biletnikoff, who also starred at Florida State, was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988 and College Football Hall of Fame in 1991. Perhaps his greatest fame came in Super Bowl XI, when he won the game’s most valuable player award in a victory over the Minnesota Vikings. The four-time Pro Bowl selection also played in two AFL All-Star games, three AFL title games, and five AFC championship games.
Biletnikoff, along with his wife Angela, established the Biletnikoff Foundation in 1999. The foundation has funded and supported many youth groups and organizations throughout California to address the challenges of substance abuse, domestic violence, and human trafficking among young people.
To make reservations, and to learn more about other upcoming events, visit JESErie.org, or call 814.459.8000.
