At 5'9", Isaac Vance doesn't immediately stand out next to his Kent State football teammates, but his big heart and care for others clearly make him one of the tallest on the team.
Vance, a senior wide receiver, was surprised Dec. 17 as the Humanitarian Award winner ahead of the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl. The award is given annually to a player from each team for exemplary community service and leadership efforts.
With an infectious smile and overwhelming positivity, it's easy to see why Vance stands out as a person who cares deeply about helping others.
The bowl committee asked Head Coach Sean Lewis to select the student-athlete that best represents community service qualities on and off the field, so he chose Vance, who says he treasures the relationship and bond the two have formed.
"Me and Coach Lew have a great relationship," Vance said. "I've been fortunate to be on some committees with him and some leadership roles with him. We have great open communication and he's not just a guy you can talk football with. His office is always open, and we can talk about life. He's my guy for sure."
Vance hails from Las Cruces, New Mexico, where he was a two-time all-state first-team selection as both a running back and defensive back.
