TEDx Presenter's Journey Took an Unexpected Turn to Governors State

Governors State University Alumnus Jamal McPherson will be conducting a TEDx talk on April 24 under the theme of “The Unexpected,” an exploration of life’s unforeseen lessons. Now a graduate student at Depaul University’s School of Public Service, McPherson’s talk will reflect on his difficult journey that brought lessons of discipline and humility.

The path to the TEDx stage includes service in the United States Navy and volunteered time for Chicago’s YMCA Urban Warriors program, which pairs veterans with youth in some of the city’s most dangerous neighborhoods to strength coping skills and identify personal strengths that can be used to benefit their communities.

In exchange for his service,  McPherson received Letters of Commendation from the Obama Administration and United States Senator Mark Kirk, and earned media coverage from National Public Radio and CBS News.

In his 2018 commencement speech at Governors State, McPherson discussed his unrelenting quest to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice.  Read more about his backstory here. In the midst of his success, Jamal is reminded of his time at GSU.

“I would like to thank Governors State University for my student experience and for giving me the resources to be successful,” he said after learning he was one of nine DePaul students selected from more than 100 to present a talk. "This will offer the opportunity to give back and be a testament to the opportunity that GSU presents."