The Office of Student Activities’ Leadership Initiative Series Program invites Linda Armstrong Kelly, mother of Lance Armstrong, to the Sam Houston State University campus today to inspire students who have been down rough paths themselves.
Growing up in the south part of Dallas, Kelly was raised with an abusive father and an unsupportive mother. By the time she was 17, she had already given birth to her first child, Lance. Until recently, Kelly also endured Armstrong’s battle with cancer, being by his side every step of the way.
“Linda’s message is for all to come and hear,” said Brian Cooper, Coordinator for the Office of Student Activities. “This program is for career professionals, abused women, cancer survivors and it holds inspiration for any one who needs inspiring.”
After hearing about Kelly from several different venues, Cooper says Kelly is known internationally and is an exceptional choice for the students of SHSU.
“The message she will be speaking on is called, ‘No Mountain High Enough: My Life Story,'” said Cooper. “She will give her life story and tell others how she has overcome every obstacle to be the person she is today.”
Being the mother of Lance Armstrong, Kelly is known by her son to be his ‘unsung hero.’ Being his shoulder to lean on and a constant source of love, Kelly raised her son in a world of love that she never knew growing up.
As this will be the first year for the Leadership Initiative to have someone come and speak, plans have already been made to have another speaker next fall.
“This is our first year to do the initiative program,” said Cooper. “We feel the programs will give students the opportunity to listen and be inspired by those who have good inspirational stories.”
This program is open to all students and faculty, as well as the Huntsville community. The program will be held today at 11 a.m. in the LSC Ballroom. Tickets are $10 at the door. After her program, Kelly will have her books for sale for $20 and you will have the option to have your book signed as you meet her. For more information, please call the Office of Student Activities at (936) 295-3465 or visit Kelly’s Web site at http://www.lindaarmstrong.com