July 11, 2023
Jaylon Smith, Pro Bowl linebacker and NFL veteran, took to the air July 7 after winning a hot air balloon ride in the live auction portion of the Trine University Scholarship Gala in February.
The ride was part of the annual Angola Balloons Aloft hot air balloon festival held July 7-9 at Angola High School.
Event organizers donated the ride to help raise money for Trine University student scholarships.
Jaylon and his guest, Frederica Rogers, took to the air in “Oggy the Friendly Dragon,” a character balloon piloted by Jack Semler with Indy Hot Air. It was Jaylon’s first hot air balloon ride.
They enjoyed a beautiful scenic flight over the eastern part of the city of Angola.
The Trine University men’s wrestling team served as the crew for Oggy and passengers. The team assisted with unpacking, preparing, filling Oggy and ensuring a safe take-off.
John Shannon, Ph.D., Trine University president, and Cisco Ortiz, vice president for student affairs, accompanied Jaylon and Frederica to the festival. Dr. Shannon, Cisco, wrestling team members, the balloons owners and those attending the festival were able to talk with Jaylon before and after the flight.
Jaylon served as keynote speaker for the Scholarship Gala on Feb. 11, which raised more than $1.4 million for Trine University student scholarships.
Next year’s Gala will be held Feb. 10, 2024, and will offer more opportunities to bid on items and support student scholarships.
Four Trine University sport management students have qualified for the National Collegiate Sports Sales Championship (NCSSC) competition in February, placing in the top 20 out of nearly 900 participants nationwide.
Justin Weber, an experienced teacher and education administrator, has joined Trine University as its new executive director of student success.
Successful students from community colleges and other accredited institutions who want to continue their education can now receive guaranteed admission to Trine University.