Mary Lou Retton, Adored Gymnast in 1984 Olympics, to Speak at Judson University

Submission by Judson University/Photo credit:marylouretton.com

American gymnast Mary Lou Retton, who captured people’s hearts worldwide during the 1984 Olympics, will be the speaker for Judson University’s World Leaders Forum Inspirational Series on October 10, 2016. Tickets are on sale now starting at $50.

“Mary Lou Retton is known for her athleticism and contagious energy. Even more than that, she embodies faith, optimism and leadership,” said Judson University President Dr. Gene Crume. “These are the qualities that have made her such an inspiring person, and the reasons why we are so happy to invite the public to our campus to hear her message.”

Retton catapulted to international fame when she won the all-around gold medal in women’s gymnastics at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. She was the first American woman to ever do so. Additionally, she won silver medals in the team and vault competitions, and bronze medals for uneven bars and floor exercise. Her five medals were the most won by any athlete at the 1984 Olympics. She was honored as the Sports Illustrated Sportswoman of the Year and the Associated Press Amateur Athlete of the Year in 1984.

Retton has since become a worldwide motivational speaker and fitness ambassador for good nutrition and regular exercise. She has served as the national chairperson for the Children’s Miracle Network Board of Governors, as a commentator at the 1988 and 1996 Olympic Games, and in several other media roles. She also is the author of Mary Lou Retton’s Gateways to Happiness: 7 Ways to a More Peaceful, More Accomplished, More Satisfying Life. Retton and her husband, former Texas Longhorns quarterback Shannon Kelley, have four daughters.

The goal of the World Leaders Forum Inspirational Series is to offer Judson students and the Chicagoland community an opportunity to be inspired by significant thought leaders.

All proceeds support the World Leaders Forum Student Scholars Program and the Judson University Entrepreneurial Studies Program, which is presently in development.Now in its third academic year, the World Leaders Forum Student Scholars Program provides the most prestigious scholarship that a Judson student can receive, with up to five recipients selected per year.

Student scholars receive leadership training and financial aid based on their academic merit, leadership qualities, and financial need. To be eligible, a student must show attributes of entrepreneurship, creativity, leadership, innovation, mission and faith.