Pittsburgh’s Deslin Alexandre wins Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year award

Pittsburgh’s Deslin Alexandre was named the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year on Thursday.

The award is presented annually to the FBS player “who best demonstrates an outstanding record of leadership by exhibiting exceptional courage, integrity, and sportsmanship.” It is in its 6th year of existence.

Former Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten, the award’s namesake, announced Alexandre as the winner at a ceremony Thursday evening in Frisco, Texas. Alexandre was 1 of 3 finalists, joined by Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford and Oregon offensive lineman Alex Forsyth.

“I am honored to present the 6th annual Collegiate Man of the Year to Deslin Alexandre,” Witten said in a release. “He is a great leader and a role model for young athletes. He came to the U.S. from Haiti at a young age and overcame a lot of challenges to become a great player and leader, both on campus and in the community. He is a perfect example of what a college student-athlete can be.”

A 2-time team captain and 3-year starter at defensive end, Alexandre has been just as impactful away from the football field as he has been on it. He’s a 3-time member of the A

ll-ACC Academic Football Team and has volunteered his time for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, literacy promotion, and Divine Mercy Parish’s historic “Red Door” program that provides meals and clothing for the homeless.

Alexandre also launched the “5th Down Campaign” to help raise awareness and resources for impoverished children in Haiti. The campaign raised $50,000 for the cause.

“I don’t think there are enough superlatives to describe Deslin and his achievements while at the University of Pittsburgh,” said coach Pat Narduzzi in a statement. “His impact as a student, athlete, and community leader is so inspiring. He represents the absolute best of what it means to be a Pitt Panther. Deslin has given Pitt so many reasons to be proud and I know he will make the Witten family proud as the recipient of this outstanding award.”