Spotlight: Hero Among Us

by Dawn Gadow

If you were paying close attention to the Celtics game at halftime on February 12, you may have noticed a familiar face. Standing at center court was Gordon senior International Relations and Music major Yegue Badigue, receiving the honor of being named a "Hero Among Us" by the Celtics organization.

"It was a truly magical moment watching Yegue walk out onto the court in the middle of the Celtics game and receive a standing ovation from 18,000 people," says Matt Austin, a close friend of Badigue's who attended the game. "It's incredible to see someone who has been able to persevere through so many obstacles be honored in such a public way."

The Heroes Among Us award was established by the Celtics in 1997 to honor individuals in the Boston area who have made an overwhelming impact on the lives of others. Sponsored by the Mass State Lottery, over 380 individuals have been honored by the organization since the program's beginning.

Badigue, a native of Chad, was recognized for his inspiring journey and dedication to helping disabled people in need. Born blind, he traveled to the U.S. to attend Perkins School for the Blind as a teenager.

As part of the award, Badigue was picked up on campus by specialty transportation and taken to the TD Banknorth Garden where he had the opportunity to chat with Celtics managers, owners and players before the game. After posing for pictures with the captains of both the Celtics and the Lakers, Badigue enjoyed the game from his front row seat before being escorted onto center court at half time to receive his honor.

Looking forward to graduation in May, Badigue says he dreams of "bringing economic empowerment to those who are left behind." For the time being, he is already working to raise awareness of the plight of disabled children and doing his part by working with students at the Perkins School.