Temple University to honor former Chiefs coach Dick Vermeil
By Matt Conner
Former Kansas City Chiefs head coach Dick Vermeil will speak at Temple University’s 2017 commencement ceremony.
Temple University has decided to honor longtime NFL head coach Dick Vermeil this year with Doctor of humane letters and a chance to speak at their 2017 commencement ceremony. Temple, located in Philadelphia, grew familiar to Vermeil’s local impact during his years as the Philadelphia Eagles head coach from 1976 to 1982. Vermeil will be co-honored along with Estelle Richman, the former Chief Operating Officer of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
"“We are beyond thrilled to honor Dick and Estelle at our momentous Commencement ceremony,” President Richard M. Englert said. “Through their many contributions to our society, they have truly embodied leadership, excellence and service—qualities that Temple holds dear.”"
Vermeil served as an NFL head coach for 15 seasons, joining the St. Louis Rams and Kansas City Chiefs after his six year stint with the Eagles. He went 44-36 during his tenure with the Chiefs, his highest winning percentage of any of his NFL stops. He also won a Super Bowl the year before he came to Kansas City as a part of the high octane St. Louis offense, “the Greatest Show on Turf.”
Vermeil turned 80-years-old earlier this year.