GERMANTOWN, MD

November 20, 2015  [Updated by the DeSean Jackson Foundation, 11/25/2015]

 

DeSean Jackson, of the Washington Redskins, and his mother, Gayle Jackson, President, of the DeSean Jackson Foundtion, made a guest appearance at the Roberto Clemente Middle School “Literacy Night, in Germantown, MD, on Tuesday, November 17, 2015. The invitation was extended to the Jacksons by principal, Jeffrey Brown; and, coordinated by Jamila Denney.

DeSean Jackson is the CEO and Co-Founder, of the DeSean Jackson Foundation, which was founded in 2009, after his father, William “Bill” Jackson, died from Pancreatic Cancer when DeSean was a rookie with the Philadelphia Eagles. November is World Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month; and, Jackson chose to honor his father’s legacy by appearing at Roberto Clemente, promoting literacy; and, donating new books to the school library in Bill’s memory.

“My dad instilled the importance and value that literacy would be in my life”, states Jackson. “When I was five, my Pops knew that I was going to be drafted into the NFL even though I looked like a 45# tee-ball player. He taught me that I should develop my skills on and off the field in regards to building my brand, negotiating contracts, understanding playbooks from every perspective; and, financial literacy.

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Pops grew up in Pittsburgh, an avid Steeler fan, who studied the game. He lectured me constantly on issues such as collective bargaining, free agency; and, what how the NFL lockout with replacement players changed the dynamics of the league. I was a little dude but in my Pop’s eyes I was a big man. I hope to instill the same values and the importance and love of reading to youth who will listen. Pops was also a big Roberto Clemente, a Pittsburgh Pirate and humanitarian. Therefore, being at Roberto Clemente and honoring both Roberto Clemente and my dad is awesome.”

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DeSean Jackson and his father, Bill Jackson

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For Additional Information and Media Requests: Contact Jamila H. Denney, Roberto Clemente Middle School, Germantown, MD

Roberto Clemente Middle School
Principal: Jeff Brown
Address: 18808 Waring Station Rd, Germantown, MD 20874
District: Montgomery County Public Schools
Phone: (301) 601-0344
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