Phillip Hildebrand

Just shy of graduating in 1975, Northern Arizona University linebacker Phillip Hildebrand had to hang up his cleats and jersey to pursue a career, but he hung on to the dream of one day achieving his degree.

Now Hildebrand's achievements are bringing him to the university's 2007 fall commencement to receive a bachelor's of arts degree, capping his 33-year career with New York Life Insurance Co., where he rose in the ranks to vice chairman of the company.

Hildebrand is one of more than 1,900 NAU students who will receive their bachelor's, master's or doctoral degrees at two ceremonies at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Dec. 14 in the J. Lawrence Walkup Skydome.

Recently retired, Hildebrand credits NAU for "equipping him for his career."

"Attending NAU completely changed my life," Hildebrand says. "NAU's environment was small enough that I didn't feel overwhelmed. The school and setting allowed me to adjust while opening my eyes to learning."

Hildebrand says growing up on a farm in Bowie, Arizona, introduced him to hard work and determination early in life. "I've always remained determined to earn my degree," he notes.

NAU President John Haeger says he hopes Hildebrand's story and determination will serve as an inspiration to others.

Hildebrand left NAU early after his father died, because it made more financial sense to pursue an agent's position at New York Life rather than continue at school.

While at the university, Hildebrand met his wife, Wendy, an education graduate. In 1998, the university honored Hildebrand with the Alumni Achievement Award for outstanding professional accomplishments and community service.

At New York Life, Hildebrand has earned a prestigious Chartered Life Underwriter designation. He was the youngest managing partner ever appointed to run a general office, which he did for 20 years. Eleven years ago, he was promoted and relocated to New York Life's home office in New York City, and took over running the number one agent career system in the United States, with responsibility for a host of insurance and financial products and more than 10,000 agents in 150 offices nationwide.

"You don't have to have an Ivy League degree to be successful," Hildebrand says, "but you do have to have a balance between work, family and enjoying life, and you can't be afraid to dream big."

Hildebrand is relocating to Scottsdale, where his short-term plans for retirement include "hopefully no plans," he says, except for spending more time with his wife and three sons.