Aaron Golub, first legally blind D-I football player, to deliver Carleton convocation on ‘Achieving Goals Through Adversity’
Golub played as a long snapper for Tulane University and served as a team captain before becoming a free agent in the NFL.
Aaron Golub’s career as a motivational speaker has taken him from high schools to speaking for U.S. Bank — but before that, he was the first legally blind Division I football player to compete in the NCAA. His Carleton convocation address, “Achieving Goals Through Adversity,” will take place on Friday, January 16 from 10:50 to 11:50 a.m. in Skinner Chapel.
Golub’s passion for public speaking began at the age of 17, when he was asked to appear on Good Morning America after committing to play football at Tulane University. This experience ignited a conviction that he had a message that would impact millions. Golub shares his knowledge of leadership, disability, and overcoming adversity, mixed with some good old-fashioned sports stories, captivating audiences around the world. He has appeared on Good Morning America and been featured in CBS, NBC, Sports Illustrated, The New York Times, Entrepreneur, NPR, and many others.
In a recent interview, Golub reflected on what his blindness has taught him:
I say all the time how thankful and grateful I am that I was born legally blind. It’s the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me. Being legally blind taught me how to be disciplined, taught me how to be consistent, taught me how to work hard, and outwork the people around me.”
This convocation will also be live streamed — please register in advance to receive information on how to attend via Zoom. Carleton convocations are free and open to the public. Find upcoming events and archived recordings (including in podcast form) on the convocations website. For more information, including disability accommodations, call 507-222-5461 or email nponder@carleton.edu.
After each convocation address, Carleton hosts a luncheon with the speaker. Convocation luncheon is held in the Alumni Guest House Meeting Room (unless otherwise noted) from noon to 1 p.m. and is generally limited to 30 people. If you are interested in attending, pleas RSVP on the convocations website.