Gardner Named Candidate for Senior CLASS Award
9/18/2014 12:00:00 AM | Football
ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- University of Michigan quarterback Devin Gardner (Detroit, Mich./Inkster) is one of 30 FBS student-athletes across the nation named a candidate for the Senior CLASS Award, it was announced Thursday (Sept. 18).
Gardner, who was named to watch lists for the Maxwell, Davey O'Brien, Johnny Unitas Golden Arm and Manning awards this preseason, is 45-of-66 passing for 546 yards with five touchdowns and has added 39 yards rushing this season. Gardner's completion percentage of 68.2 ranks fourth in the Big Ten and 23rd in the NCAA. His career passing efficiency rating of 149.39 is the best in U-M history, and he ranks in the top 10 on Michigan career lists for passing touchdowns, passing yards, total offense and completions. Gardner is 346-of-570 passing for 4,986 yards and 39 touchdowns and has rushed for 697 yards and 20 touchdowns as a Wolverine.
Gardner has graduated with a bachelor's degree in Afro-American and American studies and is currently enrolled in the Master of Social Work Program. He wears number 98, a Legends Jersey honoring Michigan's first Heisman Trophy winner Tom Harmon, and served as a team captain for the Wolverines' season-opening win against Appalachian State.
Gardner takes regular visits to the University of Michigan's C.S. Mott Children's Hospital and frequently visits schools to interact with and read to classes, speak at graduations and assist with field days. Over the summer, he spent six hours daily volunteering at the Peace Neighborhood Center in Ann Arbor. Gardner also has participated in events including U-Meet the Athlete Clinics, Food Gatherers Food Drive and a Michigan ACES event.
To be eligible for the Senior CLASS Award, a student-athlete must be classified as a senior and have notable achievements in four areas of excellence -- community, classroom, character and competition. An acronym for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School®, the Senior CLASS Award focuses on the total student-athlete and encourages students to use their platform in athletics to make a positive impact as leaders in their communities.
The 30 candidates will be narrowed to 10 finalists midway through the season, and those 10 names will be placed on the official ballot. Ballots will be distributed through a nationwide voting system to media, coaches and fans. The winner will be announced in January.
Media Contact: Derek Satterfield (734) 647-1192
