"Out the corner of my eye I see [Head Coach Joe Taylor] and more people walking in. I knew something was up, because [Sports Information Director Vaughn Wilson] didn't tell me he had told anybody else about the community service project," Hepburn said.
Ray McKnight, Allstate Insurance Company field sales leader, walked over and presented Hepburn the Allstate/AFCA Good Works Team award. It was a pleasant surprise to both Hepburn and the unsuspecting kids.
The DRS students jumped up and started chanting "Go FAMU," to the pleasure of all adults within an ear's shout.
"Brandon is so focused on his tasks, that it was easy to pull this one over on him. I marvel at how well he took to the kids and embraced the moment with them. I think Allstate and the American Football Coaches Association got this right. He is one of the best all-around kids I've ever seen," Wilson said.
Members of the media, who were tipped off on the event, swarmed to get a word with the star. Administrators at FAMU DRS invited Hepburn back to read tot he kids once again.
"He is such a good reader. You can tell that he is a very smart young," said FAMU DRS Elementary Department Administrator Sandra Grant. "This is just great and these kids will never forget this day," she added.
Hepburn graduated from FAMU earlier this year with a B.S. in biochemistry and is currently in the School of Business and Industry pursuing an master of business administration degree. He has stated that the combination goes toward his goal of one day owning a biochemical company.
On the field, Hepburn is the team's leading tackler and the captain of the defense. Professional scouts have been very interested in his achievements and are showing interest in his talents.
"My goal is to continue to play football after college, but if that doesn't work out, then I'll have several options to consider," Hepburn said.