Alan C. Page is a distinguished American former Minnesota Supreme Court judge and professional football player, renowned for his remarkable contributions both on and off the field. Page began his athletic career at the University of Notre Dame, where he gained national acclaim as a defensive tackle, leading the Fighting Irish to a national championship in 1966. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1967, where he played for 11 seasons, becoming a key member of the legendary “Purple People Eaters” defensive line. Page’s exceptional performance earned him the NFL MVP award in 1971, making him the first defensive player in history to receive this honor. He was inducted into both the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest defensive linemen in NFL history.

After retiring from football, Page pursued a legal career, earning his Juris Doctor from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1978. He worked at a Minneapolis law firm before being appointed as Special Assistant Attorney General in 1985. In 1992, he made history by becoming the first African-American associate justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court, where he served until his retirement in 2015. Page was re-elected multiple times, garnering the highest votes in Minnesota history, and was involved in significant legal decisions, including overseeing election contests.

Beyond his legal and athletic achievements, Page is a passionate advocate for education and community service. In 1988, he co-founded the Page Education Foundation, which has provided support to thousands of students of color, encouraging them to give back to their communities. His commitment to education is further exemplified by his authorship of children’s books aimed at promoting literacy and critical thinking skills among young readers.

In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, Page was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2018. His legacy continues to inspire future generations, as seen in the naming of schools in his honor and his ongoing efforts to ensure quality education for all children. Alan Page’s journey from a celebrated athlete to a respected judge and community leader exemplifies his dedication to excellence and service.