Leon Spencer, who served as mayor of Kennett Square for 12 years, and Bob Morse, a former professional basketball player in Europe, were recently recognized with Kennett Alumni Legend Awards during a presentation at Kennett High School, writes Joan Holliday for Southern Chester County Weeklies.

The two 1968 graduates discussed how they seized the many opportunities they were given throughout their lives.

Spencer cited an example of being invited by Dr. Larry Bosley to fill a vacancy on a school board. He accepted and was then voted in. This later helped him become a mayor.

Morse recalled being told by his coach, Nate Kendig, that he should be shooting from the outside to take advantage of his height. This led him to score 1,300 points, even before the 3-point arc was introduced.

Both men received plaques that will be placed at Kennett practice fields.

Spencer’s plaque reads “A True Civic Leader,” to honor his decades of service to students and community.

Meanwhile, Morse’s plaque reads “The Quintessential Scholar Athlete,” which celebrates his exceptional basketball career. He played at Penn before embarking on a pro career overseas that culminated with him being named one of FIBA’s 50 Greatest Players.

Read more about Leon Spencer and Bob Morse from Southern Chester County Weeklies here.