DETROIT – Dr. Ike McKinnon has spent a lifetime serving the city of Detroit -- and the accolades are starting to reflect it.
McKinnon recently received the Pro Football Hall of Fame Award of Character, an honor recognizing his resilience and leadership. The recognition adds another milestone to a career defined by public service, education and community impact.
McKinnon served as Detroit’s police chief and deputy mayor, spending 26 years as a professor at the University of Detroit Mercy. His decades of service helped shape the city’s leadership landscape and left an impression on countless students, colleagues and residents.
Since retiring, McKinnon has shifted his focus to mentoring Detroit’s youth. He works to encourage young people to think critically about their futures and embrace the power of education and self-improvement.
McKinnon believes that changing mindsets -- and offering positive alternatives -- can play a significant role in reducing youth violence and drug involvement in the city.
An interview Karen Drew had with Dr. Ike McKinnon when he retired can be watched in the video player above.