On Sept. 17, Jeff Glasbrenner, a Paralympian, motivational speaker and the first American amputee to summit Mount Everest, took the stage as part of Harding University’s American Studies Institute (ASI) Distinguished Lecture Series. He shared his story of resilience, faith and overcoming adversity through his powerful presentation titled “A Bad Day, Hope and Opportunity.” Prior to his keynote speech in the George S. Benson Auditorium, Glasbrenner participated in a dinner and small forum, which allowed attendees to connect personally with him. Professor of history and political science and director of the American Studies Institute Dr. John Duke introduced Glasbrenner by emphasizing how his life embodied the values the Institute strove to promote. Glasbrenner explained that he lost his leg in a farming accident at the age of eight. Despite the challenges of living as an amputee, he completed 25 Ironman races, summited Mount Everest, and became a wheelchair basketball champion, among other accomplishments. “Jeff Glasbrenner is no stranger to adversity,” Duke said. “After a tragic farming accident as an 8-year-old, he was forced to overcome more as a child than most of us encounter in our entire lives.” In addition to listing specific achievements, Duke also noted Glasbrenner’s character outside of all the medals. He actively pursued the role of fatherhood with the same passion and determination that earned him his athletic accolades. “But most importantly, Jeff is a dedicated stay-athome dad to his daughter, Grace, and son, Gavin,” Duke said. Glasbrenner shared his own story of perseverance, emphasizing that hope was essential for success. “If you don’t have hope, then I don’t feel you can accomplish too much,” Glasbrenner said. “Hope is just having belief in a higher power with God and knowing that you’re going to be fine, you’re going to be protected, and you’re going to be on your path.” This sentiment struck a chord with attendees, including junior Grayson Hume, who was also an amputee. “The best moment was when we instantly connected on the idea that [amputees] have to prove ourselves no matter what we do,” Hume said. “It was so nice to see someone who is older than me understand something that I go through every day.” ASI speaker Jeff Glasbrenner speaks to students and faculty about life experiences. Leg In The Air! On September 17, ASI speaker Jeff Glasbrenner holds his prosthetic leg. He brought his different legs for different occasions to show the crowd. Photo by Jeff Montgomery 253 ASI Speaker As part of his speech, Glasbrenner encouraged students to view obstacles as opportunities for growth. Hume found this perspective particularly inspiring. “Jeff’s story is something everyone should aspire to be like,” Hume said. “He has used his missing leg for good when he could have easily given the doubt.” Glasbrenner’s visit to Harding University left a lasting impact, serving as a powerful reminder of the strength of hope and community in overcoming life’s challenges. Written by Aja Griffin LEG IN THE AIR! In the Benson Auditorium, ASI speaker Jeff Glasbrenner holds his prosthetic leg to the crowd. He brought many of his legs and explained the different purposes for each one. Photo courtesy of Jeff Montgomery
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