Senate Resolution 116

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING FORMER JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY STAR RUNNING BACK LEWIS TILLMAN UPON HIS INDUCTION INTO THE MISSISSIPPI SPORTS HALL OF FAME.

WHEREAS, on July 28, 2023, star Jackson State University running back Lewis Darnell Tillman was inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame's Class of 2023. Tillman, who grew up in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, stated he is most grateful that his name will join so many great athletes' names from Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, Lewis Tillman played seven seasons for the New York "Giants" and the Chicago "Bears." The following are highlights of his stellar career:

· New York "Giants" 5 years (1989-1993);

· Chicago "Bears" 2 years (1994-1995);

· Tillman was drafted in the 4th round in 1989 by the New York "Giants";

· He spent five years as a running back and special teams player for the "Giants," rushing for 1,406 yards and five touchdowns;

· He also was part the New York "Giants" Super Bowl Championship team in 1991, which included Lawrence Taylor;

· He spent two seasons with the Chicago "Bears" where he was the leading rusher in 1994;

· Prior to the NFL, Tillman enjoyed a great career at Jackson State University where he broke Walter Payton's school career rushing record with 3,989 yards and led the "Tigers" to three SWAC Championships and one Co-Championship;

· He was a two-time Kodak All-American and Walter Camp All-American;

· In addition to being named the SWAC Offensive Player of the Year in 1987, he won the MVP award in both the East-West Shrine and Blue-Gray All-Star games; and

· After retiring from the NFL, Tillman coached for 18 years on the high school and collegiate level.

WHEREAS, Tillman lives with his wife, Kathy, in Dallas, Texas. They have two grown children, Tricia and Lewis, Jr. He recently retired after 18 years in coaching from Madison Central to Texas Southern to Mississippi College to Callaway and Jim Hill. He listens to smooth jazz, just like his mentor Coach W.C. Gorden; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we recognize an outstanding Mississippi football star, who has brought honor to his family, his university, and to the State of Mississippi: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate former Jackson State University star running back Lewis Tillman upon his induction into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, and extend to Lewis and his family our best wishes for future success.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Lewis Tillman and his family, forwarded to the President of Jackson State University and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.