YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Youngstown State University President Bill Johnson will launch the Presidential Conversations series, a platform designed to foster meaningful dialogue and thought leadership across campus.
The series, starting next month, will feature a variety of elements, including bringing renowned thought leaders to campus, hosting campuswide conversations on critical topics and a “Presidential 5-Minute Series” airing weekly on WYSU.
The series will kick off with George Mumford, a globally recognized speaker, teacher and coach.
Mumford, a performance and mindful expert, will speak about motivation, leadership and inspiration beginning at 10 a.m. April 1 in the Chestnut Room in Kilcawley Center. Mumford’s presentation is free and open to the public.
“With the launch of Presidential Conversations, I am excited to create a platform where our campus community can engage with some influential thought leaders,” Johnson said. “By bringing people like George Mumford to campus, I am committed to fostering an environment that inspires personal growth, challenges conventional thinking and equips our campus community with the tools to lead with purpose and excellence.”
With a career spanning over three decades, Mumford has worked with some of the most accomplished athletes and organizations across the country, helping them unlock their full potential as performers and leaders. He has published two books, “The Mindful Athlete: Secrets to Pure Performance” and “Unlocked: Embrace Your Greatness, Find the Flow, Discover Success.”
Michael Jordan credits Mumford with transforming his leadership skills, which ultimately contributed to the Chicago Bulls’ six NBA championships. He also worked with Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, the Miami Dolphins and the New York Knicks. A former college athlete at the University of Massachusetts, Mumford’s personal journey of overcoming addiction has shaped his mission to help others unlock their maximum potential.
Beyond sports, Mumford’s influence has extended to organizations such as Nike, Google, YouTube and many others. He has been featured in interviews with “60 Minutes” and ABC News, as well as in dozens of podcasts. He continues to teach through online courses, his “At Home with George” YouTube series and speaking at various events.
Pictured at top: YSU President Bill Johnson.