Jon David Nelson, the male recipient of the Lion of Valor, is a runner for the Men's Track and Field team and comes to Bryan from Mentone, AL. Nelson will be graduating April 30th with a bachelor's degree in Psychology. He has been a vital part of the team's success, serving as a constant leader both on and off the field. During his junior year last season, Nelson earned All-Conference honors in the 400-meter race and as the anchor leg of the Distance Medley in the AAC Indoor Championships. He also led the 4x400 team to a come-from-behind victory to claim the title. This year, the Distance Medley team earned All-Conference honors at the Indoor Championships, giving Nelson another medal for his career. With the Outdoor Championships taking place this weekend, he will look to add another piece of hardware to his career total. The honors have not stopped for Nelson off the track either. He has served as a Resident Assistant (RA) for two years, along with many other leadership roles on campus. After graduation, he will get married to his track and field teammate, Sarah Welch, on June 5th, 2022. They have served as Camp Counselors at Ponderosa Ministries for the past 4 years. During this time, God confirmed His call on their life to join their staff as full-time missionaries.