Maryland Forges Partnership with McNair Foundation

After the Maryland Board of Public Works approved a $3.5 million settlement to the family of Jordan McNair on Wednesday, the University of Maryland announced a partnership with the Jordan McNair Foundation to advance student-athlete health.

McNair, a Terps football player, died in 2018 after suffering heatstroke during an offseason workout.

As reported by NBC affiliate WBAL in Baltimore, the university will set up a program managed by the University Health Center and the athletic department to teach athletes about heat exertion, concussions, mental health and nutrition.

“There is nothing more important for our student-athletes than their health and safety,” University of Maryland president Darryll Pines said in a statement. “In partnership with the Jordan McNair Foundation, we will cement Jordan’s legacy and enhance a culture of player safety that will forever be a hallmark of Maryland Athletics.” 

The football program has also established the Jordan M. McNair Award for Courage, which will be presented annually to a player showing professionalism on and off the field, dedication to the team, as well as strength, courage and conviction. The team's Offensive Line Room in Cole Field House will also be named in McNair's honor.

“The legacy of Jordan McNair continues to have a profound impact on Maryland Athletics and our entire One Maryland community,” Maryland athletic director Damon Evans said. “Building on the valued personal relationships we have with Jordan’s parents, we are proud to call the Jordan McNair Foundation an official partner of Maryland Athletics and look forward to the important work we will accomplish together.”

The Terps will work with the foundation on other marketing and fundraising initiatives around the issues of student-athlete health and safety. 

“Today’s unprecedented settlement and partnership with the University of Maryland further emphasize that our son’s tragic death will not be in vain," said Marty McNair, Jordan's father. "We are now focused on honoring Jordan's legacy."