Coach Carter first in speaker line-up

Ken Carter, basketball coach, author and entrepreneur, is scheduled to make an appearance at Southern University on Sept. 22.
The first of the 2005-06 Southern University Motivational Speaker Series, Carter will speak in the Cotillion Ballroom at the Smith-Brown Memorial Union at 7 p.m. and his appearance is co-sponsored by the Junior Class.
“We try to invite persons with a story to tell, someone who can relate to our students and have the same background as our students,” said Edna Hickman, assistant to the vice chancellor for student affairs.
“Our students need to know that they can do anything and become successful. Coach Carter is an excellent choice to open with because he took a basketball program and he inspired his students.”
Best known for his work as the hard as nails coach in California’s Richmond High Schools basketball program from 1997 — 2002, Carter made news when he did not allow his undefeated varsity basketball team to play when the students did not improve their grades.
Carter not only locked and closed the high school gym, but he forbid all basketball-related activities because 15 of the 45 players were not meeting academic standards in which they agreed upon in contracts signed earlier in the semester. Carter also considered keeping the team from playing for the remainder of the season.
Carter has been described as an advocate for the young people of Richmond’s community. He has worked effortlessly in his community with opportunities that build positive relationships with peers and adults, and recognizes the advantages of a stable sports program.
“It is very important that students come out and hear the motivational speakers. Coach Carter is one of the most inspirational individuals for our age,” said Dwayne A. Grant, junior class president. “It is essential that our college and career lives are enriched.”
Carter’s life was portrayed by actor Samuel L. Jackson in the film “Coach Carter.”
“I am really anticipating what he has to say,” said Tarah Channel, a freshman mass communication major from St. Louis. “From his movie and his life, I feel he is going to be a great motivational speaker and I want to know how he is going to motivate the student body of Southern.”
An advocate for education, using only a kick scooter, Carter traveled for three days to Sacramento from Richmond High School in October 2000, hoping to bring awareness to the failing condition of schools and the need for a commitment from students, parents, teachers, and school board officials to making a difference. Because of his actions, Richmond High obtained building enhancements and computers from the Secretary of Education.
“Coach Carter forced his students to learn. He pushed academia, and it was not just about basketball,” Hickman said. “We come second to none when it comes to exposing our students. Our students need to learn and be motivated so that they can become well rounded.”
The event is free and open to the public. For further inquiries, contact Edna Hickman at (225) 771-3922 or Dwayne A. Grant at (225) 771-2300.