Olympic winner to present at NAU


Inside NAU Home \| NAU in the News \| Search Archives \| Submit a News Tip	Vol. 4 No. 42 \| Oct. 31, 2007

Lack of financial backing and little opportunity to compete at national and international levels often obstruct the success of Native American athletes. But some, like Olympic winner Billy Mills, have surpassed these barriers to become winners.

Mills will share his story of persistence as the only American to win a gold medal in the 10,000-meter race, as well as his journey of overcoming prejudice and alienation. The presentation will be at 7 p.m. Nov. 13 at Prochnow Auditorium on the NAU campus.

Born on the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota, Mills attended an Indian boarding school. Through his experiences in the Marine Corps and college, Mills gained a strong sense of self-worth that prepared him for the Olympics.

"Mr. Mills serves as an inspiration to us as he achieved such success while overcoming racism and trying to find his place between two very different worlds," said Gretchen McAllister, director of the Martin-Springer Institute. "He stands as a 'compassionate warrior' as he fights against discrimination and poverty among Native Americans."

Nazi Olympic exhibit
on display at NAU

The Martin-Springer Institute will highlight the Olympics of 1936 with its Nazi Olympic exhibit on the third floor of the Riles building, building 15, on the NAU campus. The exhibit will be open from Nov. 14-Dec. 21 and again in the School of Communication gallery, on the second floor of building 16, from Dec. 17- Jan. 30.

Groups from middle school, high school and college are invited to schedule a 35-40 minute docent-led tour through the exhibit that will encourage thoughtful conversation.

Curricular materials are available on the institute's web site. Tours can be scheduled with Melissa Cohen.

Mills believes that the Olympics can stand as an important vehicle for promoting peace.

''What I took away from the Olympics wasn't a gold medal,'' Mills said. ''I took away an understanding of the dignity and character of global diversity. That's the power of the Games, and it's the only platform of its kind. "

Mill's visit coincides with the opening of the Nazi Olympic exhibit that shares the story of the 1936 Olympics.

Tickets to hear Billy Mills are free and available by visiting the NAU Central Ticket Office in the University Union or calling (928) 523-5661.

For information, visit nau.edu/msi or call (928) 523-2464.