Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship

At sporting events, camera operators are typically anonymous, their names never mentioned despite capturing the moments fans cherish. But Don Cornelli, ’85, a recently retired professional sports cameraman and Central Michigan University alumnus, is an exception.

From filming student productions in Moore Hall to his recognition in a national hall of fame and on live television, Cornelli has had a legendary career.

"Super" tribute for a job well done

Even if you don’t recall his name, you might remember the unprecedented moment when he was honored on live television with most of America watching. During the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LIX, before the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22, FOX play-by-play broadcaster Kevin Burkhardt took a moment to acknowledge Cornelli’s work. The broadcast cut to an image of Cornelli on the sideline, camera over his shoulder, as Burkhardt told nearly 183 million viewers:

“That’s a Hall of Famer right there, the great Don Cornelli, who got started in ’87 with CBS. He’s done as many big games as anyone. The greatest handheld camera person in the history of what we do… retiring after today. Nobody better, and there might not ever be anyone better. The best. Donny, we love ya.”

Within minutes, Cornelli’s phone was flooded with messages from friends, family and colleagues. The man who spent decades behind the lens was suddenly in the spotlight, recognized for his unparalleled career.

“I was shocked,” Cornelli said. “The main show producer made the decision to do that, and I can’t thank him enough. I had numerous people text me saying they’ve been in the business 35, 40 years and have never seen a camera person get that kind of recognition during a Super Bowl.”

A career of iconic moments

Cornelli’s career spanned nearly four decades and covered the biggest sporting events in the world. He shot over 20 Super Bowls, multiple Olympic games, NCAA Tournaments, World Cups, Stanley Cup Finals, NBA Finals, PGA Majors and the biggest automobile races. Along the way, he captured some of sports’ most unforgettable moments, like Plaxico Burress’ game-winning touchdown catch in Super Bowl XLII, when the New York Giants upset the undefeated New England Patriots.

His peers say his talent wasn’t just about experience, it was also a keen intuition. 

In an article by The Ringer, FOX NFL lead producer Richie Zyontz said, “Experience creates great instincts, right? He has been doing it for such a long time that he has a knack for being in the right place at the right time.”

Fellow FOX cameraman Michael Dranes added, “Whatever the play is, Cornelli’s going to get the best shot.”

Cornelli did it so well for so long that he was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2020. But his journey started decades earlier on the campus of Central Michigan University.

From CMU to the NFL

Cornelli always had a passion for sports television. While at CMU, he immersed himself in the craft, spending countless hours in Moore Hall editing, directing and running cameras for student productions.

“Once I started doing it, I just enjoyed it so much,” he said. “I loved all aspects of television production.”

A great opportunity arose during his sophomore year when the United States Football League (USFL) launched and Detroit’s Michigan Panthers needed coverage. With help from faculty member Joe Misiewicz, Cornelli landed an internship with ESPN, filming USFL games in Michigan. That experience earned him college credits—and a paycheck.

After graduating from CMU in 1985, Cornelli freelanced for CBS and CNN. Then, his big break came when CBS offered him a gig covering an NFL game. He quickly rose through the ranks and was eventually hired as part of the CBS on NFL “A” team, working alongside legendary broadcasters John Madden and Pat Summerall, producer Bob Stenner, and director Sandy Grossman.

“Those guys and that entire crew really molded how we cover football today,” Cornelli said.

The final shot

Now retired, Cornelli acknowledges his family's important role in supporting his dream job, which often led to time away from his loved ones.

“They put up with it and helped me get through it,” he said. “My wife and kids were always supportive and allowed me to do it.”

Super Bowl LIX was his last live event. Thanks to Burkhardt’s tribute, millions now know the name Don Cornelli — a CMU man who spent decades behind the camera, capturing history, only to become part of it in his final broadcast.