Distinguished Alumni Award

Timothy J. Dwight Jr., 99BS—a record-holding former NFL player, an active philanthropist, and a creative entrepreneur of renewable technology—has devoted much of his energy to advancing health across the state and nation.

Always a proud Hawkeye, Dwight says his favorite UI memory is "suiting up for the first time in Kinnick Stadium," where he experienced "the crowd and speed of college football." He credits this time in the spotlight and in the classroom as instrumental to his future in the NFL, as a businessperson, and as a generous supporter of Iowa athletics and physical education initiatives.

Following his 1999 graduation from the University of Iowa—where he was an eight-time Hawkeye letter-winner, consensus all-American football player, as well as a Big Ten champion and all-American in track and field—Dwight played ten NFL seasons. During this time, he experienced Super Bowl XXXIII with the Atlanta Falcons and set a record with a 94-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

Since 2002, Dwight has hosted an annual summer football camp for youth as part of the Tim Dwight Foundation, a nonprofit organization primarily benefiting the UI Children's Hospital and the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center. Always one to go above and beyond, he has quietly inspired and brought hope to hospitalized and terminally ill children—whether through a personal call, note, or special meeting. Says Dwight, "Being a UI alumnus means integrity, community service, do your best, and never give up."

Following retirement from football and looking for another professional venture, Dwight became a passionate advocate for renewable energy initiatives. He has since appeared before the Iowa legislature in Des Moines to support various energy bills, including proposals to help businesses and property owners invest in renewable technologies. Dwight also owns his own solar energy company—the California-based Integrated Power—which designs and provides solar energy solutions to commercial companies.

Over the years, Dwight has donated his time and talents to numerous national and local charities, serving as a spokesperson for the Salvation Army, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the Varsity Club. In 2011, he promoted the 25th Summer Iowa Games and Iowa's initiative to become the healthiest state by participating in 26 events. Today, he contributes to several UI and area high school recreation projects, and is a frequent volunteer and special guest at functions benefiting the Iowa City Community School District.

"Not only has he not forgotten where he came from, he actively works to improve our community and make it a better place," writes John Bacon, 97BA, 03MA, principal of Iowa City's City High School. "His ability to speak to young people and deliver a positive, encouraging message is very inspiring."

Led by his loyal commitment to UI values, Timothy Dwight will no doubt continue to be a generous and energetic philanthropist for years to come.

Dwight is a member of the UI Foundation's Presidents Club.

Career Highlights

• Four-time state championship sprinter on the City High track and field team (the only person in school history to claim that honor)
• Member of the City High School and National Iowa Varsity Club halls of fame
• Professional NFL athlete for the Atlanta Falcons, Oakland Raiders, New York Jets, New England Patriots, and San Diego Chargers
• President of the Iowa Solar Energy Trade Association (ISETA)