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Former Michigan State center now an anti-bullying spokesman

Mackinac Bridge Autism

Speakers who participated in The Mackinac Bridge Light It Blue campaign for autism awareness, Left to right, Scott Shelke, Tim Ellis, Ben Duff, Dr. Colleen Allen, Lt. Govornor Brian Calley, Anthony Ianni (AP Photo/Tim Burke, Michigan Department of Transportation)

AP

Former Michigan State big man Anthony Ianni was diagnosed with autism as a kid and spent much of his time in middle and high school being bullied.

Now that he’s officially a former Spartan, Ianni’s new role is as the Anti-Bullying Public Awareness Advocate for the Autism Alliance of Michigan.

His message?

Not only is it an effort to put a stop to bullying, but Ianni is also an example of perseverance. Getting called names growing up doesn’t mean you can’t do something special with your life. Ianni is walking, talking proof of that.

You can find Rob on twitter @RobDauster.