Nigel Chatman was certainly unique. In addition to being a standout defensive lineman for the Otterbein University football program, the personable Reynoldsburg native had a rare ability to lift someone’s day. A promising sophomore, he was tragically killed in a car accident on Sept. 6, 2019 during his drive to morning practice. It occurred just one day before Otterbein’s season opener.

Nigel was not a student of great means and was working hard to put himself through school, something the family was very proud of. We are now launching and asking support for the Nigel Chatman Student Emergency Fund at Otterbein University, which will be used to help students with emergency needs such as food, toiletries, books, utilities, car repairs and more. Otterbein is proud of what Nigel represented, and wants to continue helping others like him achieve what they are also striving toward.

“If Nigel had a quarter and you needed it, and it was his last quarter for the day, he would have given it to you,” said Tim Doup, head football coach. “It wasn’t easy for him financially coming to Otterbein but he was doing it. This fund is very important because we need to help others like him. That’s a special opportunity. Other kids out there need us and we need to be there.”

To give to the Nigel Chatman Student Emergency Fund, please do so in one of two ways:

Via mail at: 
Attn: Advancement Services
1 South Grove St.
Westerville, OH 43081
Make check out to: Nigel Chatman Fund

Via online: https://www.otterbein.edu/give/
In the “designation” line, please enter: Other, “Nigel Chatman Fund”

Visit otterbeincardinals.com for the full feature on Nigel Chatman and his lasting impact.