Carlos Ojeda, Jr., President of CoolSpeak and one of the most dynamic motivational speakers in the nation, will be the keynote speaker at the opening session on Friday morning.  He has addressed over one hundred thousand students throughout the nation. His compassion, strength and genuineness have inspired the youth, educators, and leaders whose paths he has crossed along his journey as an innovative and masterful communicator. Carlos' obsession with living life completely and passionately is only rivaled by his desire to share his message. 

In addition to hearing Carlos Ojeda, students will attend a leadership development workshop with Andres Lara, a.k.a. The Cuban Guy. Andres escaped Cuba at the age of 16 facing many obstacles in his life. He now travels around the nation sharing his story and achievements to motivate youth to pursue their goals in life. A financial aid/literacy workshop will also be included as part of the program.

Student participants will also have the opportunity to visit with recruiters representing vocational and technical schools, community colleges, and 4-year academic institutions in the immediate vicinity and the military.  Students will receive a CD containing a list of scholarships available to all students whether they are citizens, legal residents, or undocumented.  This event will serve to ensure that high school students begin to envision and understand the process and requirements for pursuing the kind of post-secondary education of their choice.

For more information contact Tammy Deavours at tdeavours@ushli.org or (312) 427-8683.