Student Events

Speaking to large groups of middle and high school students is not for the weak of heart. There’s quite nothing like watching a large gymnasium fill up rapidly with 1500 teenagers all busy talking, texting and laughing. Will they put down their cell phones? Will they stop chatting long enough to listen? Will they hear what the speaker has to say? Even after 13 years of doing public school assemblies, these are questions Ben asks himself before stepping in front of the most jaded and discerning members of our society. Perhaps it is this quick soul searching that takes place before every event, that allows Ben to give incredible, relevant, entertaining and thought-provoking assemblies year after year.

We know that Ben’s assemblies changes lives and attitudes because we hear about it from parents, teachers and the students themselves.

Speaking from the heart, he shares what it was like to grow up being “different” from other kids. Everyone in the audience gets something out of THAT. The “different” kids get a boost because they suddenly realize that they are not alone; popular kids experience an “a-ha” moment as they become aware of how their words and actions impact those around them.  And the teachers are given an excellent teaching tool to help extend Ben’s message into their classrooms.

There’s no question that Ben is no ordinary speaker. Even if his personal story and the way that he is able to weave other important issues into it, wasn’t so compelling, his live art performance is the nail in the proverbial coffin that helps to engrave his positive message of hope on the hearts and minds of the young people who see and hear him perform.

For a custom quote and to check Ben’s availability, please click HERE.

Topics

Simply Special; Finding your Place in the World

60 minutes (includes drawing – Ben will donate drawing to the school)

Ben shares the inspiring story of his journey from being diagnosed LD in third grade to finding his calling as an artist, author and popular speaker.

This presentation is high energy with lots of humor and heart-felt stories about surviving school as a “different” learner and learning how to utilize his ADHD traits to succeed in life.

This presentation can be customized to cover any of the following topics:

• Leadership
• Anti-bullying
• Drug Prevention
• Self-respect
• Positive Choices
• Conflict Resolution
• Leadership
• Overcoming obstacles by having a Positive Attitude

Rave Reviews

Caroline, student, says:

“Ben Glenn is AWESOME!!! I got chills listening to him speak to us. He had a great message and was absolutely hilarious. He is also a wonderful artist and I love his technique of giving a lesson along with his drawings. He was brilliant!!! We all gave Ben a standing ovation and were sooooooo impressed!!! Thanks for coming Mr. Glenn!”

Kaitlyn, student, says:

“I loved Ben Glenn! He is so energetic. I know people with ADD and dyslexia, and hearing him describe it made me realize what is going on in their heads. He was an incredible speaker, the art was gorgeous, the moral was great for everyone, and his stories had me laughing so hard I thought my ribs would explode and that the tears on my face would never go away. I spend my time watching Blue Collar TV and watching comedies, and this was by far the funniest guy I have ever seen. He is extraordinarily talented and I hope to see him again. After the presentation, I continued to think about it. I realized that the guy who could never pay attention held the focus of my 7th grade class of 200 kids longer than any speaker. That’s incredible. Thank you Ben Glenn, I hope to see you again!”

Joy Wright, Paraprofessional of Kansas TLC School says:

“Thanks for the wonderful presentation. It made a great impression on the special kids from Kansas TLC school. Most of the kids we serve have behavior issues and it was amazing for them to hear a positive message from someone they can relate to. The art and music was just the best!!”

Diego Flores, student, says:

“Ben Was the Greatest entertainer with the most humble and realistic aproach to public speaking and Art. You were fantastic dude.”

Barb Smith, Director  of Survivors of Suicide, Saginaw Chapter says:

“Ben shared his incredible gift of talent and inspiration to help bring hope and healing to those who were hurting in the aftermath of a suicide. What I found most amazing is how Ben can tailor his presentation to the audience he is sharing with. Ben truly cares about his audience and what message needs to be heard. We are fortunate people to have the opportunity to see the gifts God has given Ben and more fortunate that he and his family are willing to share it! Thank you Ben.”

Cynthia G, parent, says:

“Love what you are doing! I believe you are an inspiration to my daughter who struggles with learning disabilities in school. Thank you!”

Shaelynn, student, says:

“I thought your whole presentation was amazing, talking about how life is a journey, and how there will always be obstacles and you have to be willing to step up and overcome them. It was inspiring and I will keep this speech with me for the rest of my life.”

Wes, student, says:

“Being a fellow ADD-er, i can truly appreciate what he said. I thought he was extremely funny (and funny because what he was saying was true), thought provoking, and one hell of an artist. The way that he paints is amazing and it almost follows the mindset of a person with ADD. Anywhoo, keep up the great art and humor!”

Marcy Gravenhorst, Special Ed., teaching asst at W. Leyden High School says:

“I was very impressed with your demonstation. The students I work with in Special Education classes spent the day talking about your presentation. You definitely impacted their lives and they could really relate. I also enjoyed your talk and your art!”

Jennifer, student says:

“I saw you at springhill 3 months ago and me and my friends still talk about how funny you were and how you really made us think hard about getting through challenges.  Your art is BEAUTIFUL!!”

Kim J., parent, says:

“My 6th grade daughter just saw Ben speak. She is beginning therapy. ADD & ADHD have been bounced around by her school. You gave her hope and a sense of relief when she heard you speak.  Thank you for making such a positive mark on this planet!”

Connie T., parent, says:

“This was my first time seeing Ben in action, I would watch him anytime anywhere. I was simply amazed at how well he connected with my son who is also a SPECIAL child. ADHD, obsessive compulsive disorder, turettes, mild form of narcolepsy, and they think epilepsy,as well. Your talent is simply breath taking, and when you add the media aspect to the drawn art it is AMAZING.”

Caroline L., student, says:

“I just wanted to tell you again how much I enjoyed your visit to FMS last week. You were absolutely wonderful! If someone speaks to us about our outlook on life or “how to live positively” it comes out as a bunch of jibber-jabber we’ve all heard before. You had such an effective way of speaking! I have thought about what you said so much lately and I have decided to no longer be a benchwarmer. You’ve inspired me! So many people are talking about you at school; you’re a popular guy! I know you have profoundly impacted so many lives.”

Nancy, teacher, says:

“Ben Glenn was incredible!! I was at the FEA National Conference as a teacher with my FEA students. On an evening when they were tired and may not have paid much attention otherwise, they were totally enthralled with Ben’s art and message. I loved watching their faces, rapt with attention. How wonderful. We thoroughly enjoyed the entire thing!”

Brittany, student, says:

“Ok, basically.. AMAZING!!! I’m from Flora High School, you just came here a couple days ago & you were awesome. I laughed so hard & was touched by your story… Keep it up!”

Tessa, student, says:

“This was the best thing that I have ever seen! It was funny, educational, and it made me feel better about having ADHD and Aspergers! Thank you!”