Former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. Michael Caterina / USA TODAY NETWORK

Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice joins Broncos ownership group

The Denver Broncos announced on Monday that former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has joined the team's ownership group, Walton-Penner. 

Rice grew up in the Denver area and received a bachelor's degree and doctorate degree from the University of Denver, according to ESPN

"A highly respected public servant, accomplished academic and corporate leader, Secretary Rice is well known as a passionate and knowledgeable football fan who has worked to make the sport stronger and better," Rob Walton said in a statement. "Her unique experience and extraordinary judgment will be a great benefit to our group and the Broncos organization.''

The ownership group, which includes Walton, his daughter Carrie Walton Penner, her husband Greg Penner and co-CEO of Ariel Investments and chair of the board for Starbucks Corporation Mellody Hobson, agreed to buy the team in June for $4.65 billion. Greg and Carrie Walton Penner are expected to have prominent, visible roles when it comes to the day-to-day management of the team, which was put up for sale back in February.

The NFL is still reviewing the sale of the team, ESPN reported. 

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