KU was very fortunate to have a man like Bob Frederick guide its athletic department. He put an emphasis on integrity, on character, on people and the total student-athlete experience. He was not one who would compromise his values to put money or winning above all else. He wanted student-athletes to be successful in competition and in the classroom. I remember clearly that he ended every all-staff meeting with a message that he obviously believed was most important…he would tell us:
“Remember, we are committed to treating everyone with dignity and respect, that we will operate within the rules and we will do everything possible to make sure our student-athletes graduate.”
In my mind, that commitment serves as Bob’s legacy as a leader. It speaks to his integrity and that measure of excellence in leadership he expected from everyone under him.
