"Global Unity Through Global Diversity"

April 21, 2010

4:30 p.m.

Saxbe Auditorium, Drinko Hall 55 West 12^th Avenue

(reception and book signing immediately following)

President E. Gordon Gee and Provost Joseph Alutto invite you to attend the tenth annual Diversity Lecture and Cultural Arts Series on the campus of The Ohio State University.  The program offers the campus and the Columbus community opportunities to benefit from some of the most eminent scholars, artists, and professionals who discuss and exemplify diversity with excellence.

Billy Mills was born and raised on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.  Although Pine Ridge is very rich in culture and spirit, it is continually recognized economically as one of the poorest communities in America with unemployment reaching 80%.  Billy was orphaned by the age of 12 and sent to boarding schools.  Mills became involved in distance running and earned an athletic scholarship to the University of Kansas. Never winning a major race in track and field or cross country, he continued to show promise through his performances, making All-American several times. Upon graduation, Mills was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps, and continued training for the Olympic Team.  He made the Olympic Team in two events, the marathon and the 10,000-meter run.  He had trained his body, mind and soul for "Peak Performance."  Little did we know, the world was about to see the greatest upset in Olympic history unfold.  A major motion picture has been made about Mills, titled "Running Brave," and has been a positive influence on many of our American youth.  Today, Mills is an accomplished businessman, author and spokesperson.

Events are free of charge and open to all students, faculty, staff, and the public. Please visit www.osu.edu/diversity/lecture.php to access the calendar of events. For further information or special accommodations, please contact Dr. Mac Stewart, Special Assistant to the President for Diversity, or Ms. Edie Waugh (waugh.2@osu.edu) at (614) 292-4355.