My name is Jack Kreman. I currently live near Indianapolis, IN, but was born and raised in Central Nebraska. As a loyal Nebraska Cornhuskers fan, I was raised to dislike anything associated with the gold and black. I remember vividly Bill McCartney circling the CU-Nebraska game in red. I remember the throng of CU fans driving down I-80 toward Lincoln in 1994 for a Halloween matchup. And unfortunately, I remember the disaster that was the CU-Nebraska game in 2001. Having made several trips to Boulder for football games (back when the two schools were in the Big XII) I was generally disgusted with behavior I witnessed. I have been verbally abused, intimidated and even been subject to having objects thrown at me. I was in the stands when officials cleared out the entire student section. I can tell you my opinion of CU was not very high.
Two weeks ago I found I had to travel to CU-Boulder for work. At first blush I was not very pleased. Considering all the bad behavior I had witnessed, I was not looking forward to my visit. I was due for a meeting at the University Memorial Center and running a little behind, when I became lost on campus. Luckily, I found a map of campus and began searching for the UMC on the map. That was when a student approached me and said, “Hello sir, can I help you find a building on campus?” I must have given him a look of shock, as he just smiled and asked me again. With some trepidation I thanked him and said yes. He pointed out the UMC and then completely baffled me with, “Can I walk you over there to make sure you find your way?” I politely declined his offer. At age 32 I think I can manage finding my way, but the offer was appreciated.
I don’t know who that student was, but I can say he changed the opinion of one person that day. Perhaps it was because I wasn’t wearing a big red N, but nonetheless I want to thank him and other CU students for being so hospitable. While I cannot say I will be able to cheer the Buffs the next time they play Nebraska, I will be able to say I think CU students and alumni are good people, and that has to count for something.
Warm regards,
Jack Kreman
Fishers, IN
