Bobby Bell finished what he started 56 years ago by earning a degree from the University of Minnesota in recreation, park, and leisure studies (RPLS) on May 14.

Bell starred on the 1960 national champion and 1962 Rose Bowl champion Gopher football teams, was a two-time All-American, Outland Trophy winner, and NFL Super Bowl winner. In 1983, he was inducted to the NFL Hall of Fame.

However, Bell, at age 74, has now earned something even more important to him: his University of Minnesota degree.

When Bell left the U to join the Kansas City Chiefs in 1963 he was just 13 credits short of his degree. With help from staff and faculty at the U, Bell achieved his dream and honored his father, who had minimal schooling but was convinced his son could acquire a college degree.

CEHD Student Services helped with the difficult task of evaluating Bell’s previous coursework and identifying remaining requirements for Bell. Connie Magnuson, RPLS director, worked with Bell to create a directed study to fulfill his final credits in the major.

Bell’s story has received national media coverage. See articles by ESPN, the Kansas City Star,  Minnesota Public Radio, the Pioneer Press, and the Star Tribune.