On April 3rd, 2013, the Association of Diversity in Sport (ADS) will be hosting a panelist event entitled 'Athletes or Role Models: Where Do They Stand?' This will be the third edition of our Sports Talk Series, examining the role of athletes in today's society and the effects that it has on fans of all ages. Through engaging debate and discourse, we hope to touch on many polarizing topics concerning how athletes of all levels can make an impact on those who follow them.
The common perception of athletes being held to standards as role models is at an all-time high. Through this event, we are hoping to offer different views on the role of athletes in today's society and the effects that their actions may have. Due to the steady rise of social media, the question of athletic role models is one that needs addressing. Admission to the event is free.

Panelists:

Kevin Blackistone Panelist

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  • National Sports Columnist
  • Panelist on ESPN's Around the Horn
  • Professor of Sports Journalism at the University of Maryland-College Park


Tracy Schoenadel Moderator

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  • Mark H. McCormack Department of Sport Management Professor
  • Instructor for Sport Strategic Communication-Graduate Level Class
  • Former Director of Sports Polls at ESPN

Ricky Williams Panelist

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  • Former Heisman Trophy Winner
  • Former NFL Running Back
  • Star of ESPN's 30-for-30 'Run Ricky Run'
  • Teacher of “Access Consciousness”

Todd Crosset Panelist

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  • Mark H. McCormack Department of Sport Management Professor
  • Specializes in Sociology of Sport
  • Helped establish the Key Players Club in Collaboration with the Boston Celtics in 2001
  • Varsity Swimmer at the University of Texas-Austin