Matt Glowacki to speak for Disability Awareness Month

In observance of Disability Awareness Month, October 2007, Metropolitan State University is hosting a motivational speech by Matt Glowacki entitled “Diversity According to South Park and Family Guy” on Tuesday, Oct. 4, at the St. Paul campus, 700 E. Seventh St., Founders Hall, Auditorium, from 3-5 p.m.

Glowacki, a native of Janesville, Wis., was born healthy but without legs. From a very young age his parents provided him with every opportunity to participate in a normal life. Before graduating from Craig High School, Glowacki had earned the rank of Eagle Scout, served as the governor of the state of Wisconsin’s Key Club District and managed his own business. He went on to get a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications with an emphasis on public relations and a minor in history from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater.

During his time at the university, he also developed and administered community awareness program entitled "What it Takes: Cornerstones for Success." The program visited over 50 schools each year to inform students and bring competitive wheelchair sports to over 25,000 students across the state.

Glowacki also acted as an informative speaker and adviser for groups of parents, administrators and business professionals at state and national conferences.

Glowacki now puts most of his energy into business and competitive sports. He earned a position on the 2000 USA Paralympic Team for sit-volleyball in Sidney, Australia, and the 2002 World Championships in Cairo, Egypt, and he now gives presentations to audiences ranging from high school students to business professionals in an effort to offset the cost of training and traveling with the Paralympic Team.

In addition, Glowacki operates three separate businesses: MOGO Wheelchairs, a successful wheelchair building and sales business; Glow Music, a mobile disk-jockey and entertainment service; and Myriad Communications, his speaking and consulting company.

This event is sponsored by the ACCESS Student Organization, Disability Services, Equal Opportunity and Diversity Office, University Activities Board/Student Life and Leadership Development, TC3 and the Student Senate. Admission is free and open to the public. Persons with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation to participate should call Disabilities Services at 651-793-1525 or 651-772-7687 (TTY).