Title: Jack Kiser's Unmatched Notre Dame Legacy as All-Time Games Played Leader and Top Business Graduate
Two years back, Tom Mendoza, a 1973 alumnus and former NetApp president, shared a meeting with the Notre Dame football team. Having endowed the University's business school in 2000 and eager to give back as a mentor, Mendoza advised the players to reach out anytime, with many doing so, including Jack Kiser, a top linebacker and business student.
Kiser and Mendoza connected on Zoom, sharing backgrounds and aspirations, forming a lasting bond. Mendoza regards Kiser as one of the most remarkable individuals he's met, considering the linebacker's exceptional talents on and off the field.
On Monday night, Kiser will step out for his school-record 70th and closing game against Ohio State in the College Football Playoff championship in Atlanta. Since joining Notre Dame in 2019 as an early enrollee, Kiser has left a lasting impact on football, academics, and the local community.
Kiser, wearing the captain's band, leads the team with 85 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. His defense has also been a force, allowing only 14.3 points per game, second in the Football Bowl Subdivision after Ohio State (12.2 points per game).
Kiser's academic prowess is equally impressive, earning his undergraduate degree in three and a half years, majoring in business analytics. He finished with a 3.82 GPA while maintaining a busy football schedule. Post-graduation, Kiser enrolled in the one-year Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) program, where he consistently impressed his professors with his rapid learning capabilities and organizational skills.
During his summer coursework, Kiser encountered challenges due to commitments to football. However, his resilience and proactivity were evident as he sought professors' help, resulting in accommodations that enabled him to successively balance both academic and sports commitments.
Kiser's academic achievements extend beyond the MSA program, graduating with a 3.97 GPA and winning the Tom Frecka award for outstanding academic performance. He also claimed the Dean's Graduate Business Award, commended for his collaborative spirit, leadership, and academic excellence.
At Notre Dame, Kiser has continued engaging in graduate business classes, focusing on tax preparations and affordably offering local residents tax aid. Through his dedication and patience, Kiser earned praise from his teachers and professors for his exceptional work with the senior citizens and his ability to learn quickly.
Kiser's business acumen extends beyond the classroom, with his leadership in guiding younger teammates and providing financial advice. Although he remains a force on the field, Kiser recognizes the importance of setting aside money and building financial skills throughout his college football journey.
On the gridiron, Kiser has used his experience to help young linebackers, such as Ausberry, Viliamu-Asa, Sneed, and Bowen, by providing critical support and guidance. His mentorship's impact is showcased by their testimonials, praising his unmatched wisdom and guidance.
Kiser's contributions and achievements have earned recognition, becoming a finalist for prestigious awards like the William V. Campbell Trophy and the Wuerrfel Trophy. His profound impact on Notre Dame is reflected in his involvement in community initiatives, serving as the player committee chairman for Cleats for a Cause and connecting with local pediatric patients battling cancer.
Tom Mendoza admires Kiser's maturity and commitment to personal growth, stating he is a standout among an impressive group of students. Kiser's football journey is nearing its end, with the NFL draft looming, but he hopes to have a significant impact in the financial services industry after his playing days.
Although his Notre Dame journey will eventually conclude, Kiser has made an enduring mark on his alma mater and his community, solidifying his status as a Notre Dame icon and an inspiring example for other aspiring football and academic talents.
Kiser's discussions with Mendoza often touched on the interplay between sports and business, with Mendoza sharing his insights from his successful career in technology and business. In the future, Kiser dreams of combining his love for football with his business acumen, aiming to make significant contributions in the financial services industry.
