Lee Rouson

“I didn’t have the knowledge at the time to close a deal or operate a company,” Rouson said of his initial foray into business. “But in my mind, I was going to do it. I don’t know how to do it, but I’m going to find a way. Of course, that didn’t work out. Two of the guys who were my so-called partners ended up stealing money, so that dream was over. So I failed in certain areas trying to do business and then I realized that something is not right."

CHANGING PATHS

A call from his former college coach would change Rouson’s direction, opening the door to a new opportunity. Sports World, an organization that sends professional athletes into schools to share personal life experiences with students, gave Rouson the opportunity to spread a message of hope to youth throughout America.

After almost 20 years with Sports World, Rouson decided to head back to school, receiving a degree in business administration from Malone University. And after meeting Hannibal Navies, Director of Engagement and Outreach for The Trust, at a University of Colorado alumni function Rouson had his perspective altered once again.

“He opened my eyes,” Rouson said. “He told me that The Trust was a way to embrace what life has to offer me right now.”

GETTING HIS MBA

Rouson utilized The Trust and their career and education partner AthLife to pursue his MBA, and enrolled in classes at Southern New Hampshire University using the Scholarship Award Benefit.

“Lee is a great example of someone following their passions and finding an educational program that helps them grow professionally,” said Tracy Moss, Rouson’s AthLife Advisor.

“I felt like I was 22 years old again,” Rouson said of going back to school. “The Trust's Qiana Thomas and Tracy at AthLife supported me the whole way. I had a 4.0, and I had a support system that I had never had before.”

BACK IN BUSINESS

After receiving his MBA, Rouson set out to combine his passion of speaking and helping others with his newfound business insight. His companies, EligiblityHouse.com and Move Your Chains, seek to help young people and former NFL alumni accomplish their goals and overcome challenges with training and consultation.

“I have gained the business acumen and confidence to make my dream a reality, and that is to offer a service that helps others be eligible for their own dreams,” Rouson said. “I want my peers to have that type of camaraderie, agreement and spirit of teamwork. That’s the only thing I miss from football, the moment the quarterback would call the play in the middle of the huddle and say, ‘You ready?’ That’s the question I present to young people and corporate America: How can my company help you to become eligible and be ready?”

“Lee remained focused and determined to complete his graduate degree, even when faced with challenges,” Miritte Steinberg, Rouson's Program Manager at The Trust, said. “I know that Lee will continue to be a role model to others, and his own achievement will encourage the individuals he works with.”

Rouson’s advice to other former players who may be looking to find their own path? Use your resources and be ready for the challenge.

“Know who you are, because in order to move your chains, you need to know your true identity,” Rouson said. “Look at what you are gifted with through The Trust, and take advantage of it. Yes, it’s a process, and it’s going to take time. It’s going to take effort, blood, sweat and tears. But you’ve done that before!”