Doak Walker Plaza

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a nationally ranked private university with seven degree-granting schools, SMU is a distinguished center for teaching and research located near the heart of Dallas. SMU’s 11,000 students benefit from small classes, leadership opportunities, international study and innovative programs. Founded in 1911 and opened in 1915, SMU operates satellite campuses in Plano, and Taos, New Mexico. SMU was founded by what is now The United Methodist Church, in partnership with civic leaders, and was shaped by the entrepreneurial spirit of the region. The University is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry. DOAK WALKER PLAZA Located outside the northeast corner of Gerald J. Ford Stadium, Doak Walker Plaza is named after SMU's former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL Hall of Famer. Each year the nation's top collegiate running back is awarded the Doak Walker Trophy. The lifesize action pose of Walker located at the Plaza is a replica of the trophy given out each year to the nation's top running back. Walker played college football at SMU, where he was a running back, defensive back, and place kicker. He also threw and caught passes, punted, and returned kicks. He was a three-time All-American, in 1947, 1948, and 1949. He won the Heisman Trophy as America's best college-football player in 1948 as a junior. Walker's impact on SMU and football in the Dallas area led to the Cotton Bowl's being referred to as "The House That Doak Built." Walker later starred in professional football as well, for the Detroit Lions. ARMSTRONG COMMONS Armstrong Commons is a facility for student housing with a Faculty-in-Residence. Living in one of the 11 on-campus Residential Commons during their first two years at SMU, students will find it's easier to make friends and transition smoothly to university life in a supportive environment.

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