The next installment of our Impact Series is here! Join us on November 14th at Carlow University for an inspiring keynote address from Paralympic Athlete, Blake Leeper - a true example of mercy in motion.
Blake will share his remarkable journey as a paraplegic athlete who refused to let physical limitations define his potential. His story embodies the essence of justice - the right to pursue one's dreams regardless of circumstances - and mercy, both toward oneself and others facing challenges.
Following Blake’s keynote, he will join Carlow Coach David Gordon, Professor of Psychology Dr. Jennifer Roth, and Carlow student-athlete Lyndsey Szekely in a panel discussion about pursuing passions and approaching obstacles with creativity and determination.
5:30pm
Gailliot Center, 5th Floor, University Commons, Carlow University
Blake Leeper was born in Kingsport, Tennessee, with both legs missing below the knee, and he has been using prosthetics since he was nine months old. He made his international debut in 2009 in Rio de Janeiro, and has made history as a groundbreaking athlete. Blake continues to set an inspiring standard for both disabled and able-bodied athletes, demonstrating remarkable perseverance, resilience, and triumph in his athletic pursuits and everyday life.
David Gordon is a passionate educator with over a decade of teaching and coaching experience under his belt, backed by a solid academic foundation. As an athletic and academic coach, he’s all about strong leadership, clear communication, and creating positive, trust-filled relationships with everyone—students, parents, teachers, and administrators alike. Currently, he's serves as the Head Coach of Carlow Women’s Basketball, Academic Progress Coach, and Compliance Coordinator, where he helps students focus on their learning journey and pushes them to reach their full academic and athletic potential.
Dr. Jennifer Roth has been a dedicated member of the Carlow University community for a decade, where she serves as a Professor of Psychology. Her connection to Carlow University and its Mercy values informs her service and scholarship work in tennis for athletes with low vision and blindness, locally, nationally, and internationally. Her experiences at Carlow have profoundly shaped her commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in sport. She brings these value-driven actions to her local community in Pittsburgh by serving as Vice President of the US Blind Tennis Association.
Lyndsey Szekely is a dedicated third-year student on an accelerated track, pursuing majors in Business Management, Healthcare Management, and Human Resource Management, along with minors in Economics, Working and Labor Class Studies, and Information Technology Management. A natural leader, she excels not only in her academics but also in extracurricular activities, where she heads several organizations. Through her diverse studies and experiences, Lyndsey has cultivated a strong passion for advocacy, ethics, and leadership.
Admission is complimentary through the generous support of the Carlow Impact Series. Register to reserve your spot.
September 28, 2024
February 6, 2024
