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McLendon a finalist for faculty, staff's 'Most Spirited Sun Devil'


Michael McLendon and Sparky
September 30, 2013

This past Saturday, as ASU took on the University of Southern California at Sun Devil Stadium, Michael McLendon was there, as usual, clad in his best maroon for the Maroon Monsoon Game. This game was a bit different for McLendon, though; instead of staying in the crowd during halftime, he headed to the 50-yard line, where he was announced as the third finalist to join the running for ASU faculty and staff’s “Most Spirited Sun Devil.”

McLendon was born with Sun Devil pride – literally. In 1970, his mother was induced to ensure that both his family and the doctor could make it to that year’s Territorial Cup game, which resulted in the Devils' 10-6 victory over U of A and an undefeated season.

For the past eight years, McLendon has served ASU as a business operations manager for the School of History, Philosophy and Religious Studies, as well as an example of a tried-and-true Devil.

Congratulations Michael, and thank you for being a great example of Sun Devil spirit!

To learn more about this die-hard Devil, check out our Q&A with him, below.

Q: How do you show your Sun Devil spirit?

A: From my daily wardrobe of always wearing something ASU, I take great pride in being a staff member and promoting everything ASU. My office represents my spirit and pride with all things ASU, topped off with a Pat Tillman Rose Bowl jersey that overlooks “A” mountain from my office window. Tried-and-true, I am a Sun Devil through and through.

Q: Why do you love being a Sun Devil?

A: ASU is my home away from home and it’s important to show pride in what you believe in. ASU is an amazing place to be! My dedication and pride grow every day. 

Q: What is your favorite ASU tradition?

A: I love them all, from attending Camp Tontozona in the summer, to hosting tailgates in the fall and then becoming an “herbivore” in the winter, to celebrating Pat’s Run and the road to Omaha in the spring, I represent a true Sun Devil.

Q: What ASU event/s do you most look forward to?

A: ASU hosts so many events throughout the year, from athletics to academics and everything else in between, it’s really hard to choose. Sun Devil Football has always been the crown jewel for my family, as it brings together so many other families that share in the Sun Devil pride and tradition.

Q: What is your fondest ASU memory?

A: There are so many to choose from: attending the Rose Bowl in 1987 and 1997, the 19-0 victory vs. Nebraska on September 21, 1996 and the honor of meeting Pat Tillman.

Q: What makes you the Most Spirited Sun Devil?

A: I “speak victory” every day and share my passion on Facebook and Twitter (SDVL1). I think I have the heart, the character and the loyalty to be the "Most Spirited Sun Devil."

Q: Maroon or Gold?

A: Maroon AND Gold. There are no substitutes.

Q: Anything else you’d like to share about ASU spirit/Sun Devil pride?

A: It is an honor to be selected as a finalist for the "Most Spirited Sun Devil," something that is second nature to me. I hope to engage others outside and within the Sun Devil nation that share the same pride and passion for what is truly a great university.