For Kin Headley (’91), the road to Frisco, Texas, for the FCS National Championship game was an emotional journey unlike any he had traveled before. The 48-year-old real estate broker from Richmond, Virginia, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in late September and underwent surgery on Oct. 13. Despite having to endure six weeks of radiation and chemotherapy, Kin and his family — wife Courtney (’94), daughter LeAnna and son Caid — attended five of the Dukes’ six home games during the regular season and both playoff games at Bridgeforth Stadium. On the morning of Jan. 7, less than 24 hours after a radiation treatment, Kin, his friend, Rusty Jordan (’91), and their daughters hopped on a plane for Frisco to cheer on the Dukes.

Kin’s bout with cancer continues. He credits his faith, family and friends, many of whom date to his time at Madison, with giving him the strength to continue to fight. “I can’t tell you how much my time at JMU has impacted my life,” he says. “I am amazed by how many relationships were built at JMU and even after JMU because of the unique bond and spirit of our experiences at this amazing school.”

The most important relationship Kin built at Madison was with Courtney, now his bride of 22 years. “She is incredible and anyone who knows her would agree,” he says. “It was not by accident that God sent me to JMU, and I am so grateful.”