Ryan Perrilloux-- Gamecock, Giant, Graduate
03/01/2012
JSU Public Relations Intern
Ryan Perrilloux, former Jacksonville State University (JSU) quarterback and member of the Super Bowl XLVI (46) Champion New York Giants, was back on campus to receive his Bachelor of Science in Sociology diploma on Thursday, March 1.
The LaPlace, La. native played football for the Gamecocks during 2008 and 2009 after transferring from Louisiana State University. During his first season as Jacksonville State's starting quarterback, he led the Gamecocks to an 8-3 season, passing for 2,199 yards and 19 touchdowns. In 2009, he was an All-America quarterback and was the Ohio Valley Conference Offensive Player of the Year.
Perrilloux decided to finish his degree during the National Football League lockout in 2011. Throughout the spring and summer semester, Perrilloux completed the last four classes that were required for his major.
Perrilloux believes he was more focused on his academics when he returned to JSU last spring. “I learned a lot more this time around,” Perrilloux said. “It was a great deal and I am very excited about it.”
Unfortunately, Perrilloux could not attend his JSU graduation ceremony in August 2011 because of a NY Giants training camp.
Instead, Perrilloux vowed to come back to campus as soon as possible upon completion of the NFL season. Due to the Giants' appearance in the Super Bowl, that first opportunity came on March 1.
Dr. William A. Meehan, JSU president, expressed great pride in the former Gamecock. “We are very proud that Ryan came to JSU and even more proud that he reached this important milestone,” Dr. Meehan said. “We are going to follow his career with great delight for many years to come.”
After a small ceremony with professors, mentors, and other JSU representatives, Perrilloux spoke with gratitude about his experience at JSU.
“I want to thank everybody for this and thank God for bringing me this far,” Perrilloux said. “This is my home; I love this place!”
About the photo: Ryan Perrilloux, former Jacksonville State University quarterback and member of the Super Bowl XLVI (46) Champion New York Giants, was back on campus to receive his Bachelor of Science in Sociology diploma on Thursday, March 1. Above, Dr. William A. Meehan, university president, presents Perrilloux his degree. (Angie Finley/JSU photo)