Former Boise State QB Moore during virtual graduation: ‘Once a Bronco always a Bronco’
Boise State recognized it’s 2020 graduating class Saturday in a virtual commencement ceremony, and a beloved figure among football fans made an appearance.
Former Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore was one of many alumni who offered words of encouragement in a video released by the school.
Graduates would have walked across the stage on Saturday in a traditional ceremony, but Boise State announced March 26 that the event would be held in a fully virtual format in an effort to abide by social distancing guidelines and slow the spread of coronavirus.
While recognizing the unique circumstances graduates currently find themselves in, Moore leaned into what a degree from Boise State means to him.
“Like you guys, I was so fortunate to be able to graduate from Boise State in 2010,” he said. “I’m so thankful for that experience — for the opportunity to learn, to grow and to achieve at Boise State, and it’s something that will stay with you for the rest of your lives. There’s nothing better than to represent and appreciate Boise State as you go your separate ways.”
Moore was Boise State’s starting quarterback from 2008-11. His 14,667 passing yards, 1,658 pass attempts, 1,157 completions and 142 touchdown passes remain records at Boise State, and his 50 career wins are the most by any quarterback in Division I history.
The Prosser, Washington, native is currently preparing for his second season as the Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator. After finishing last season 8-8, Dallas fired head coach Jason Garrett and hired Mike McCarthy, who made keeping Moore on staff a priority.
On Friday, Moore also offered closing remarks in a video released by Boise State celebrating more than 50 student athletes who earned their degrees.
“As student athletes, you guys handled the challenge of competing at the highest level in college athletics while also succeeding academically in the classroom,” he said. “I can attest to you that those experiences you had at Boise State will continue to propel you through your life as you go on to different challenges and different opportunities. As they say, once a Bronco always a Bronco.”
On Saturday, Boise State football coach Bryan Harsin also offered his congratulations.
“It took tremendous discipline. It took a lot of toughness. It took a lot of belief,” Harsin said. “Enjoy your moment and when you’re done, go out there and take advantage of this opportunity you’ve been given. Chase your dreams, chase your goals and go out there and achieve. And as we say in the football program, go attack your future.”
This story was originally published May 10, 2020 at 9:03 AM.
