Hunter Pinke's journey as an athlete didn’t end with a devastating injury; it transformed into something even more powerful. Once a promising tight end and team captain at the University of North Dakota, Pinke's life took an unexpected turn in 2019 when a skiing accident left him paralyzed from the chest down. But for Pinke, now a highly sought-after speaker, adversity became the catalyst for a new kind of championship mindset—one he now shares with audiences across the country.
On Wednesday, August 21, at 12 PM (MST), at Stickney Auditorium (291 Campus Drive), Dickinson State University (DSU) will welcome Hunter Pinke to the stage for a keynote event presented by the DSU Heritage Foundation. Known for his ‘No Bad Days' mantra, Pinke delivers a message of hope, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of greatness, no matter the odds.
Ty Orton, DSU Acting President, invited Pinke to speak to the Dickinson community, continuing the Foundation's tradition of bringing in top-tier motivational speakers the week prior to classes starting. Orton stated, "This event is open to the public, and we strongly encourage businesses, teams, and anyone eager to overcome and redefine challenges to join us."
The 'No Bad Days' Philosophy
After his accident, medical professionals warned Pinke of the good days and bad days that lay ahead. Pinke's response was, “I don’t have bad days.” Pinke’s philosophy is one of stacking good days upon good days, living with gratitude and joy, and using his experience to inspire others.
“The question is not if adversity will hit your life, but rather when. Everybody encounters struggle at some point in their life. That struggle can drag you down or spring you forward,” Pinke explains. His approach to life’s challenges is about transforming struggle into strength, and he’s set to share this powerful perspective with Dickinson State University and the Dickinson community.
Audiences can expect to be entertained, inspired, and moved by Pinke’s customized stories and examples. Pinke’s message is one of hope, resilience, and the unyielding human spirit.
A Message That Resonates Nationwide
On August 6, Pinke flew to Alabama to speak to the Crimson Tide athletes. A video of his message went viral on social media, amassing almost one million views on X, formerly known as Twitter. National college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit tweeted about Pinke's video, writing, "What perspective!"
Event Details and Attendance Information
For more information on Hunter Pinke’s keynote message at Dickinson State University, visit https://www.dsualum.org/e/hunter-pinke-keynote-message .
Date & Time: Wednesday, August 21, 2024, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM (MST)
Doors Open: 11:30 AM (MST)
Location: Dorothy Stickney Auditorium, May Hall Building, Dickinson State University
Who Should Attend:
• Community members
• University and school teachers, faculty, staff, and administration
• Collegiate, high school, and middle school athletes
Everyone is welcome!