'Mike Smith Live' at Nebraska Union Thursday night

            The University Program Council at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln will present "Mike Smith Live," a talk about pursuing passions from entrepreneur Mike Smith at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 5. The event in the Nebraska Union Ballroom, 14th and R streets, will be free for UNL students with valid NCards and $5 for all others.

            Smith, a native of Imperial, was an average student with an ordinary name until a drunk-driving accident took the lives of some of his best friends. While still in college, he made a commitment to convert his reckless poor choices into recklessly pursuing his dreams.

            A decade and two nonprofits later, Smith is executive director for The Bay, a Lincoln skatepark and one of the few nonprofit skateparks in the country. He is also the founder and executive director of Skate for Change, an organization that empowers young skateboarders to help the homeless. Smith is known worldwide as a philanthropist who works with youth from all walks of life, inspiring them to change the culture of their communities and empowering them to pursue their passions.

            The University Program Council is a student organization that provides diverse, educational and entertaining programs and events to enhance the UNL community. UPC is the executive body responsible for the implementation of programs and activities funded by University Programs and Facilities fees.

Writer: Karen Freimund Wills