ORANGEBURG, S.C. – Former South Carolina State football standout and four-time Super Champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers Donnie Shell was guest speaker at his alma mater's Executive Speaker Series held in conjunction with the Department of Business.
Shell, a former All-American & All-MEAC standout shared with students that are aspiring business professionals at South Carolina State his philosophy on winning leadership.
The Whitmire, SC native, played 14 years for the Steelers, from 1974-87. He is a member of the famed "steel curtain" defense, where they captured four Super Bowl World Championships. A five-time NFL Pro Bowler, he retired as a safety with a career-leading 51 interceptions and was selected to the Steelers' All-Time Team, the NFL Silver Anniversary Super Bowl Team and the Steelers 75
th anniversary team.
Currently he serves as president of Donnie Shell Consulting, LLC. Prior to that and following his stellar career as an athlete, he was director of player development for the NFL Carolina Panthers. He also served for five years as consultant to Johnson C. Smith University president, Dr. Ronald L. Carter.
In 2002, Shell was the recipient of the NFL award for the Best Player Program, and he was recognized for the Most Outstanding Player Program in 2000. An ambassador in the community, Shell has been servant leader throughout his life with his community involvement.
He served as chairperson for Charlotte-based Friendship Trays' Drive Away Hunger Golf Tournament, a fundraiser to provide food for the elderly in Mecklenburg County (Charlotte). He organized a fundraiser to support the Mel Blount Youth Home, and for three years, Shell partnered to provide breakfast and chapel services for the player development directors at their annual meetings.
A graduate of South Carolina State with a Bachelor of Science in physical education and a minor in biology, he also holds a Master of Education from the Orangeburg institution. He currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for his alma mater.
Donnie Shell
