Motivational speaker with PDD to address grad colloquium

Academic Calendar

Anthony Ianni, the
first-known athlete with autism to play Division 1 college basketball, will be
the speaker at the Graduate Colloquium, 3:30 p.m., May 4, at the Capitol Room
of the Holmes Student Center.

Ianni, of the Michigan
Department of Civil Rights, is one of the most sought-after motivational
speakers in the region. At age 4 he was diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental
Disorder (PDD), a disorder on the autism spectrum. His parents were told he would
probably not graduate high school and would likely have to live in a group
home. But with his family’s support, he overcame bullying, adversity and
personal challenges. He earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Michigan
State University, where he also played basketball, winning two Big Ten
Championships.

At 26 he has only just
begun. He has been invited to tell his story and share his message across
the country, inspiring many to LYD, Live Your Dreams.

For more information
about the Graduate Colloquium, please email chhsevents@niu.edu.

 


Read More