Gold medalist tells athletes to invest

Chris Richards Arizona Daily Wildcat Edwin Moses, two-time Olympic gold medal winner speaks on the need for student atheletes to prepare for their financial futures, at the African American Cultural Resource Center yesterday. His presentation was part of a series of UA events held to recognize black student atheletes.

Moses, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in the 400-meter hurdles, speaking as part of the University of Arizona's African American student recognition day program, said athletes often do not think about life after sports, and are unprepared when they can no longer compete.

"You have to read the business pages and learn about investing," he said to students gathered at the African American Cultural Resource Center, 1322 E. First St.

He said athletes often finish their professional careers and two years later do not have any of their money left.

"You have to invest," he said. "If you don't, you are making a big mistake."

Moses, who has a bachelor's degree in engineering and a master's degree in business, told the students to take advantage of their time in college.

"If you dig down deep, you can do anything you want," he said.

Since he retired from competition in 1988, Moses has worked in the business world, acting as a broker for Smith Barney Inc.

He has also spent his time working with the National Science Foundation, as well as speaking to student athletes at events such as yesterday's.

The program is designed to recognize African American student athletes who have succeeded in the class room, said Robin Lemon-Soape, interim assistant dean for African American student affairs.

"We're trying to make a better connection and let them know we are there for them," she said. "We wanted to do something that honors them."

About 45 students were recognized yesterday, including members from all of UA's athletic teams.

Students had to have maintained a GPA of at least 2.25 and participate in athletics to qualify for the honor.

The minimum GPA will be raised next semester according to Margaret Thomas-Chaney, interim program coordinator for African American student affairs. She did not indicate what the new requirement would be.