WILMINGTON — A former Louisiana State University and Miami Dolphins player will be giving the keynote speech at a nonprofit’s annual gala in 2025.
LINC Inc., which helps formerly incarcerated men re-adapt to life upon parole, will host its fundraiser on Feb. 20 at Daniels Hall in Union Station at Cape Fear Community College. It welcomes Cecil Collins to the event — a running back for LSU before being drafter into the NFL to play for the Miami Dolphins, garnering the nickname “Cecil the Diesel.”
However, Collins was released from the team and his contract after a December 1999 burglary in Palm Trace Landings apartments Davie, Florida, led to his conviction. Collins served 13 years of a 15-year sentence in prison. LINC notes his story as one of resilience and reinvention.
Collins has since dedicated his life’s mission to motivational speaking and mentorship to others in need.
“His journey reflects the transformative power of second chances and underscores the importance of support systems, values we hold dear at LINC,” Frankie Roberts, LINC executive director, said.
The gala also will feature dinner prepared by local award-winning chef Keith Rhodes of Catch Modern Seafood, beverages from Mister Bartender Port City, live music from the Darryl Murrill jazz band, and an awards ceremony recognizing M.E.R. Transitional Living Campus graduates, as well as key contributors to LINC’s success over the years.
Tickets to the fundraiser are available here.
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