RICHIE CONTARTESI
Richie Contartesi, motivational speaker and #1 Best Selling author, will be speaking to Donnelly students about overcoming obstacles and pursuing their dreams on Thursday, Aug. 24 at 10:40 a.m. in the Donnelly College Event Center.
Contartesi, a Florida native, who was an ordinary teen athlete of 5’7 and 155 pounds, set his sights on accomplishing a lifelong dream of playing college football. Starting as a walk-on, and eventually earning a full Division I college football scholarship to the University of Mississippi “Ole Miss”, he met his goal and took it a step further by becoming a professional athlete.
“Richie demonstrates how someone can overcome great odds and obstacles in order to achieve their goals,” said Susan Lechliter, director of counseling center. “He had some issues with depression early in his life and was able to turn that around and has enjoyed a lot of success in achieving the goals he has set for himself.”
Now as a motivational speaker, Contartesi talks with youth and young adults about overcoming their own challenges in life, such as depression and suicide, bullying and drug and alcohol abuse.
“Richie demonstrates not only a drive and desire to do well but also provides a framework for achieving success,” Lechliter said. “He tells the student how to set goals and to plan the next steps they need to take.”
The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required. Seating is limited.
For more information, contact:
Susan Lechliter
slechliter@donnelly.edu