This spring, Hays native and Thomas More Prep-Marian High School graduate Mayo Schmidt received an honorary degree from Washburn University.

Schmidt, who spoke at the 2014 Hays Area Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, received an honorary Doctor of Commerce at a May ceremony, according to Washburn University Relations.

After his college career at Washburn University, Mayo signed with the Miami Dolphins but left to pursue a business career. That decision proved to be a good move as Mayo has held key management positions at General Mills and ConAgra, where he was named chief executive officer in 2005.

Click HERE to read Schmidt’s biography, courtesy of Washburn University.