Thomas College of Business and Economics Speaker Series featuring Justin Gatlin and Terrell Smith

About

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with two leaders who understand what it takes to overcome adversity, build your personal brand, and turn challenges into opportunities.

Join Justin Gatlin and Terrell Smith for an engaging conversation focused on resilience, personal branding, leadership, networking, career development, and navigating life’s transitions.

Olympic Gold Medalist Justin Gatlin will share personal stories about the challenges, failures, setbacks, and transitions that shaped his journey. Terrell Smith will connect those experiences to the skills and strategies students need to build their reputation, strengthen relationships, develop their professional brand, and prepare for career opportunities.

Whether you are a student-athlete, business student, or simply preparing for your future career, this event will provide practical insights you can use right now.

What You’ll Take Away

• How to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth • Why your personal brand matters beyond the classroom • How to build and protect your reputation • Strategies for networking and developing meaningful professional relationships • How to navigate the transition from college to internships and careers • How to position yourself for future leadership opportunities • Practical steps to strengthen your professional presence Justin will challenge you to identify the obstacle or excuse that may be holding you back. Terrell will challenge you to take one specific step toward strengthening your personal brand—whether that means updating your LinkedIn profile, attending a networking event, improving your communication skills, building a professional relationship, or getting more involved on campus.

Come ready to be inspired. Leave ready to take action.

This is more than a conversation about success. It’s about learning how to respond when things don’t go according to plan—and understanding that your setbacks do not define you; how you respond to them does.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and get Ready, Set, Win!

PASSPORT CREDIT

-Speaker Credit

-Young Professional Session