Thursday, April 25, 2019
MPS welcomed back one of its own this week for an inspirational session with students at Lynde and Harry Bradley Technology and Trade School. Chris Gardner, a 1971 graduate of MPS Washington High School, is an entrepreneur, best-selling author, philanthropist, and subject of the book and film “The Pursuit of Happyness.”
Gardner spent time with about 100 students in the school library. He talked about his high school days, his journey depicted in the movie, and how he overcame the struggles in his life. Gardner also showed a presentation that outlined the pathway that led him to success, and offered tips to students to help them map out their own roads to success.
Gardner is currently on a ten-city tour with the goal of speaking at 100 high schools to empower students with his message, “Permission 2 Dream.” His recent book is “Start Where You Are: Life Lessons.”
“Hearing an alumnus like Chris Gardner, who came from the same neighborhoods as many of our current students, is a golden opportunity,” said MPS Superintendent Dr. Keith P. Posley. “After hearing Chris speak, our students can truly visualize themselves setting goals and putting in the hard work to reach them. We are grateful for his inspirational visit.”