Benjamin Watson

Nov. 9, 2020 |

The American Studies Institute hosted Benjamin Watson, former New England Patriots tight end, for a virtual lecture event on Monday, Nov. 9 as part of its American Studies Institute Distinguished Lecture Series. Watson’s lecture featured his book “Under Our Skin: Getting Real about Race — and Getting Free from the Fears and Frustrations that Divide Us.” The event was a closed campus event and was shared through livestream streaming.harding.edu .

"Ultimately the issue is not a skin problem, it’s a sin problem. God has provided a solution for sin through his son Jesus. I’m encouraged because the Gospel gives mankind hope. For us to understand where we are, we have to understand how we got here, and so many of us don’t want to understand how we got here. As believers, be willing to research, be willing to listen, and be willing to understand."

Benjamin Watson

An NFL veteran, Watson has been a key playmaker for the New England Patriots, the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens. A first-round draft pick and Super Bowl Champion, he has been recognized as one of CNN’s Extraordinary People, a Walter Payton Man of the Year finalist and has received the Bart Starr Award.

"Unity amongst the body, amongst people here at Harding, is a reflection of Jesus & the Father. It's our witness to the world of the truth of the Gospel. Are you being a light? Are you promoting unity? Unity means having empathy & respect not always agreement."

Benjamin Watson

In addition to his commitment on the field, Benjamin and his wife Kirsten established “One More,” a nonprofit dedicated to impacting the lives of those in need by providing enrichment opportunities and promoting education through charitable initiatives and partnerships. Watson has also released two books, “Under Our Skin” and “The New Dad’s Playbook,” and has appeared on numerous major TV networks and spoken on current events at schools, churches and conferences across the country.