SAC lecture to feature amputee Kyle Maynard on Jan. 25_Northwest Missouri State University[노스웨스트미주리주립대]

SAC lecture to feature amputee Kyle Maynard on Jan. 25_Northwest Missouri State University[노스웨스트미주리주립대]

Northwest Missouri State University’s Student Activities Council (SAC) will host Kyle Maynard – a motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur and athlete – at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, in the Charles Johnson Theater at the Olive DeLuce Fine Arts Building.

Maynard is a quadruple congenital amputee whose refusal to accept the limitations of this condition sets him apart. Guided by the principle that also is the title of his book, “No Excuses,” Maynard is an inspiring speaker who encourages people to recognize that some things are impossible, and then do them anyway. His is a powerfully uplifting story that leaves audiences of all ages ready to take on the world.

“I hope students get a sense of motivation and encouragement as they start their spring trimester and can be reminded that you can accomplish even your most impossible seeming goals if you put some effort into them,” Shyla Kallhoff, SAC’s director of lecture programming, said.

Maynard began his life in what he calls the “pursuit of normalcy,” but his determination and unrelenting spirit carried him past that goal to such unlikely places as competitive contact sports, The New York Times best seller list and the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Maynard has never considered his physical differences to be a disability, but rather just another obstacle that cannot stop him from realizing his dreams.

He has been honored with two ESPY Awards in 2004 and 2012 for Best Athlete with a Disability. He was also inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. He uses his unique experience to help wounded soldiers adapt their exercise regimens to meet their particular fitness needs.

In 2008, Maynard opened his first fitness center, “No Excuses CrossFit.”

To learn more about Maynard, visit kyle-maynard.com.

SAC plans and administers activities for Northwest students to contribute to a more well-rounded social, recreational and cultural life for the campus and community. SAC provides entertaining alternatives to students with late night activities and events throughout the year including concerts, lectures, movies and comedians.