The self-proclaimed “Dorsey 5” is an inspiring family committed to paying it forward, thanks to the support and opportunities granted to them by NAU. Siblings and cousins Justin, ’18; Brandon, ’19; Brittni, ’17, ’19; Tommie, ’19, ’21; and Khalil Dorsey, ’23, each have personal connections to the Lumberjack family and share their True Blue pride together.
The family’s NAU journey started with Justin, followed by his brother Brandon, who played on the club baseball team. Their sister Brittni, who played volleyball for NAU, was next in line, and the first of the Dorsey 5 to receive a master’s from NAU.
“I went on to be an EMT right after college,” said Brandon. “Studying sociology and taking experiences from my time at NAU helped ensure I was ready for my career, providing a good and well-rounded perspective of what I might experience on the job.”
Khalil was the fourth Dorsey to embark on his NAU adventure, playing football and running track with NAU Athletics. He recently finished his undergraduate degree at NAU and is currently playing in the National Football League. Khalil’s brother, Tommie, a fellow student-athlete playing football, was the last to follow in the family’s footsteps and is a two-time NAU alum.
“I had a great time at NAU, and studying Fitness and Wellness helped me learn more about my body inside and out—understanding the importance of nutrition, exercise, and preparing myself for any injuries,” said Khalil.
Five different students, five different NAU experiences. Brittni and Khalil had scholarship assistance to attend school, whereas Tommie was a walk-on for football. They each understood the value of an education but had different methods for obtaining it. Inspired by the donors who supported them, the family made a gift to the NAU Athletics Champions Fund in 2023 that was matched for a total impact of $6,000 toward student-athlete nutrition.
Our family experienced the extremes from having scholarship and financial assistance to not. We knew what it meant to be a student-athlete and what that experience is like. Now we have the opportunity to give back and want to support other student-athletes.
Tommie Dorsey, ’19, ’21 NAU Athletics football
“Playing sports, we were always hungry,” added Khalil. “Especially after a game, I just couldn’t get enough calories in. Last time Tommie and I were in Flagstaff, we passed out gift cards to help other students get groceries because we could relate.”
The Dorsey 5’s NAU experience is a family affair, with pride emanating throughout and radiating from dads Larry and Tommie, who shared that keeping everyone in touch can be a challenge. But the family still finds ways to connect to their alma mater and credit NAU for getting them where they are today. This inside perspective empowers them to lead a life of gratitude, giving back for the opportunities granted to them.
elevate athletics
NAU Champions Fund
When you give to the Champions Fund, you’ll help maintain NAU Athletics’ championship culture by providing nutrition, medicine, strength and conditioning, and recruiting power they need to compete and win championships.
