Stanford defensive back Terian Williams II is known for his benevolence. But, his latest gesture has shocked the beneficiary. Williams decided to make a positive impact with his latest name, image, and likeness (NIL) endorsement deal by bringing smiles to the face of his favorite teacher. He donated $10,000 to him as part of the Extra Yard for Teachers campaign.
Williams is known for his extensive list of partnerships with brands like Gold’s Gym, PSD Underwear, and Boost Mobile. After clinching his latest NIL deal with the snack company Cheez-It and the College Football Playoff Foundation, Williams, who hails from Duluth, Georgia, took to Instagram to post a heartwarming video in which he surprised Jerry Hayes, an educator in Henry County Schools, with a special award.
Hayes has been teaching in the district where Williams has lived for 17 years, and the gesture was intended to motivate and appreciate his contributions. The $10,000 donation will be channeled to benefit the district in his name, according to on3.
“I wanted to let you know about how big of an impact you had on my life,” Williams said in the video he posted on Instagram. “You taught me things about life that’s stuck with me throughout. You made the class a safe place, not only for me but for all your students. Just allowed them to be themselves,” he added.
Hayes was completely surprised by the news. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he thanked Williams and the sponsors for their belief in individuals like himself and teachers nationwide. Hayes, who was drawn to tears, described the donation as one of the happiest moments in his life.
Williams, originally a three-star recruit from Johns Creek High School, has shown his potential on the football field for Stanford with notable performances, including five tackles in a game against USC, where three were solo stops.
Although he appeared in just two games during the 2022 season, he has garnered significant attention not only for his on-field skills but also for his impactful use of NIL to benefit others.
During the recent holiday season, he used his earnings from his numerous NIL deals to provide groceries, Christmas presents, and housing to ten families in the Atlanta area. He said that even though he was raised in a good home, he feels obligated to give back to society.
