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Dr. Brenda Wade Well known couples and family psychologist and relationship expert, Brenda Wade is the author of What Mama Couldn't Tell Us About Love and Love Lessons: A Guide to Transforming Relationships. She also writes the Feeling Good column for Essence magazine.
John Wagner Come Academy Award time this year comic readers will have a reason to cross their fingers: A History of Violence, David Cronenberg’s filmic adaptation of the graphic novel. While much of the press’ emphasis will be on the famed director and the stars Viggo Mortensen, William Hurt and Ed Harris, the original source material, written by John Wagner and drawn by Vince Locke mustn’t be forgotten. A History of Violence’s first half adheres very closely to Wagner’s book about a Midwestern man who on the spur of the moment commits a great act of courage which gets him nationwide press. That press, however, alerts some mobsters back east who have been looking for him for many years so they come looking for him. And while Cronenberg and Wagner’s versions of the story may veer away from each other, at the end of the day, A History of Violence is another feather in comics’ collective cap. A month before the film opens; Newsarama had the chance to speak with Wagner. Through the writer hasn’t had a chance to have seen the film yet (“I’ll see it for the first time at the premiere”) Wagner did admit that even with his limited connection to Cronenberg’s version of the story, the experience was “infinitely” better than seeing once of this other co-creations, Judge Dredd, make the leap to the screen in the 1995 film starring Sylvester Stallone. “I had no control at all over what happened with Dredd,” Wagner said. “Of course, once you’ve signed the contract you have no control anyway, but up until that point things were far more satisfactory.” The deal to adapt the film from the 1997 graphic novel published by DC’s now defunct Paradox imprint was made a couple of years ago, Wagner said. “So I suppose they’ve moved pretty quickly in movie terms.” And though he wrote the initial story, Wagner was willing to the let A History of Violence go once the deal was done, eschewing even the chance to write the screenplay. “If I said anything about being a part of it at all, it was more likely to be that I didn’t want to write the screenplay,” Wagner said. “I’d written the book, and I felt that this might cloud my judgment when it came to turning it into a film. A fresh mind wouldn’t be so burdened.”
Rufus Wainwright Affectionately referred to by Elton John as the greatest songwriter on the planet and praised by The New York Times for his "genuine originality", Rufus Wainwright has established himself as one of the great male vocalists and songwriters of his generation by carving out his own singular sound. Born to folk singers Loudon Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle, Wainwright grew up entrenched in iconic music making. He began to play the piano at six, was touring with his mother and Aunt Anna as the McGarrigle Sisters and Family by thirteen, and had a Juno nomination for his performance of I'm Running in the film Tommy Tricker and the Stamp Traveller by the time he was 16. Throughout his adolescent years, Wainwright found solace in opera. He also loved performers such as Edith Piaf, Al Jolson and Judy Garland. After spending time on the club circuit, Wainwright cut a series of demos, one of which found itself in the hands of Lenny Waronker at the newly formed DreamWorks. So taken with the demos, DreamWorks made Wainwright their first signed artist. His self-titled debut album was released in 1998 to critical acclaim, with Rolling Stone Magazine anointing the work as one of the best albums of the year. Wainwright's subsequent releases, Poses (2001), Want One (2004) and Want Two (2005) continued to build his reputation as a critically established artist. His most recent album, Release The Stars (2007), is his first self-produced effort and has just gone Gold in the UK. It has been described by the New York Times as simultaneously forthright and evasive, urgent as well as coy, and has been characterized by USA Today as being always compelling and People as being something special. Wainwright will continue to tour internationally after the Hollywood Bowl show. Wainwrights next album will be a live recording from his Carnegie Hall concert, to be released in December. At that time a live DVD of the London Palladium concert will also be released. Beyond recording, Wainwright is a noted actor, having starred in Martin Scorseses The Aviator and Merchant Ivorys Heights. He was featured in the Leonard Cohen documentary I'm Your Man and will be seen in the forthcoming Denys Arcand film L'Age Des Tenebres. Wainwright has also recently completed an original piece of music for the Stephen Petronio Dance Company.
Dennis Waitley Business and management expert and author of The Psychology of Winning.
Dennis Walcott Deputy Mayor for Education and Community Development Dennis M. Walcott is the Deputy Mayor for Education and Community Development. In that capacity, he oversees and coordinates the operations of the Department of Education and the Department of Youth and Community Development, as well as maintains liaison with and reviews the activities of the New York City School Construction Authority, City University of New York, City University Construction Fund and the New York City Housing Authority. Walcott is also responsible for maintaining liaison with community-based organizations citywide and coordinating policies concerning youth programs and adult education. He serves as Co-Chair of the Mayors Commission for Construction Opportunity. A product of the New York City public school system, Walcott received a Masters of Social Work from Fordham University and a Masters of Education from the University of Bridgeport.
Martin Walker Foreign affairs expert and U.S. Bureau Chief for The Guardian of London.
Alice Walker Alice Walker, winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the American Book Award for The Color Purple, is internationally honored as an essential writer of our time. She is the author of six novels, including The Third Life of Grange Copeland, Meridian, The Temple of My Familiar, Possessing the Secret of Joy, and By the Light of My Fathers Smile; three collections of short stories: In Love & Trouble, You Cant Keep a Good Woman Down, and The Way Forward is With a Broken Heart; three collections of essays: In Search of Our Mothers Gardens, Living By the Word, and Anything We Love Can Be Saved; and five volumes of poetry: Once, Revolutionary Petunias and Other Poems, Good Night, Willie Lee, Ill See You in the Morning, Horses Make a Landscape Look More Beautiful, and Her Blue Body Everything We Know. She edited the Zora Neale Hurston reader, I Love Myself When I Am Laughing...And Then Again When I Am Looking Mean and Impressive, and her books for children include To Hell With Dying, Langston Hughes, American Poet, and Finding the Green Stone. In the eighties she was publisher and co-founder with Robert Allen of Wild Trees Press.One of her most recent books, ABSOLUTE TRUST IN THE GOODNESS OF THE EARTH, new poems, was published by Random House in March of 2003. A book of poems and drawings A POEM TRAVELED DOWN MY ARM was published in fall of 2003; two childrens books: WHY WAR IS NEVER A GOOD IDEA and THERE IS A FLOWER AT THE TIP OF MY NOSE SMELLING ME will be published in 2004. Her new novel NOW IS THE TIME TO OPEN YOUR HEART has just been released.
Herschel Walker Herschel Walker was born in Augusta, Georgia and grew up outside of Wrightsville, Georgia. For the first eleven years of his life, Herschel Walker showed little interest in sports; he preferred reading books and writing poetry. At age 12, however, he began a crash exercise program. Over the next year, he did 100,000 push-ups, 100,000 sit-ups and sprinted thousands of miles. In high school, Walker played football and basketball and competed in track and field. He scored a record-breaking 85 touchdowns as a running back and led his teams to state championships in both football and track, while maintaining an A average. Herschel Walker participated in the 1980 Academy of Achievement program as the valedictorian of his class and the most sought-after high school football player in the nation. At the University of Georgia, Walker set an NCAA freshman rushing record and helped capture the national collegiate football title. He earned consensus All-American honors three consecutive years, set 10 NCAA records, 15 Southeast Conference records, 30 Georgia all-time records, and capped a sensational college career by earning the 1982 Heisman Trophy in his junior year. In 1983, Walker gave up his final year of collegiate eligibility and turned professional, joining the New Jersey Generals of the short-lived United States Football League. Walker dominated the league, earning Most Valuable Player honors and setting the single-season pro football rushing record (2411 yards). After his first pro season, he finished his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice at the University of Georgia. Walker joined the Dallas Cowboys in 1986, where he led the entire NFL in rushing and earned All-Pro honors. Walker moved to the Minnesota Vikings as starting running back in 1989. In 1992, he joined the Philadelphia Eagles football team, but returned to the Dallas Cowboys in 1996. He retired from the NFL in 1997. Walker was one of the top running backs in the pros, gaining more yards than anyone in professional football history, counting his seasons in both the NFL and USFL. He finished his professional career with with a total of 8,225 yards and 61 rushing touchdowns. He also caught 512 passes for 4,859 yards and 21 scores. Herschel Walker has worked with numerous charitable and educational organizations. In 1981, he became the first Academy of Achievement honor student to return to the annual program as a recipient of the Golden Plate Award. In 2002, he was voted into the Collegiate Football Hall of Fame, and was selected as the second greatest player in college football history, just behind the legendary Red Grange.
Jimmy Walker Popular comedian best known for his starring role in the hit television series, "Good Times."
Rebecca Walker Rebecca Walker is a best-selling author, an acclaimed speaker and teacher, and an award-winning visionary and activist in the fields of intergenerational feminism, enlightened masculinity, and transformational human awareness. When she was just twenty-five, Time Magazine named her one of the fifty most influential future leaders of Americaan award which has since been followed by many others, including the Women Who Could Be President Award from the League of Women Voters, the Champion of Choice Award from CARAL, and the Women of Distinction Award from the American Association of University Women. In 1995 Rebecca published her first anthology, To Be Real: Telling the Truth and Changing the Face of Feminism, which has been in print for more than ten years. Called a "seminal text of Third Wave feminism," To Be Real is taught in Women's Studies programs around the world. In 2002, Rebecca's memoir, Black, White, and Jewish: Autobiography of a Shifting Self, became an international bestseller and won the Alex Award from the American Library Association. People Magazine called Black, White, and Jewish, "A heartbreaking tale of self-creation Walker masterfully illuminates differences between black and white America." A second anthology, What Makes a Man: 22 Writers Imagine The Future, was published in 2004 to similar acclaim: "Walker has done society at large a great service by bringing forth these voices, these views." (Booklist) Rebecca is a popular speaker on campuses and in business settings around the world. She has lectured at more than 300 universities including Harvard, Oberlin, MIT, and Stanford, and addressed dozens of organizations including the National Council of Teachers of English, and the Ministries of Culture and Gender of Estonia, at the first-ever Conference on Masculinity in the Baltics. She's been a consultant for Sony Music, Microsoft and JP Morgan Chase, and has been featured on Charlie Rose and the Oprah Winfrey Show. Rebecca has written for blogs and magazines, including Harper's, Salon, Glamour, Essence, and Buddhadharma, and her essays are widely anthologized. She has taught the art of memoir at workshops, MFA programs, and writing conferences nationwide. For writers developing non-fiction manuscripts, Rebecca offers consultation on theme, voice and structure, helping take projects from concept to manuscript to publication. In December of 2004 Rebecca gave birth to a son, Tenzin, whose arrival is the subject of a new memoir, Baby Love, forthcoming from Riverhead Books in 2007.
Wyatt Walker Well known civil rights activist and minister.
Jimmie Walker The term "maximizing one's potential" could have been coined to describe the life of Jimmie Walker. He strode out of the New York ghetto, called the "South Bronx," famed for burnt-out buildings, pervasive neglect and disrepair, determined to educate himself. He worked by day and went to school at night until he finally discovered his Dyn-O-Mite sense of humor. From the tiniest comedy clubs to multiple appearances on "The Tonight Show," Jimmie's starring role for six years on "Good Times" was only the beginning. Today his healthy career includes Las Vegas, national tours, film and television. Jimmie is available for stand-up comedy and/or motivational lectures.
Edward Walker Ambassador Edward S. Walker, Jr. is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Middle East Institute, a highly regarded Washington-based institution focused on Middle East policy. He possesses a unique depth of knowledge and experience in the regions issues. Before assuming his current position in 2001, Walker worked in the first Administration of George W. Bush as Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, a position he had previously held under Madeleine Albright during the second Clinton Administration. During that time he helped initiate and negotiate US policy toward Iraq, including a complete revision of US sanctions policy. He also engaged in recalibrating US policies toward Iran and the Middle East peace process. Walkers diplomatic career includes positions as US Ambassador to Israel (1997-1999), the Arab Republic of Egypt (1994-1997), and the United Arab Emirates (1989-1992), as well as Deputy Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations (1992-1993). In the course of his 35 year career, Walker has worked with every Israeli Prime Minister since Golda Meir, with Presidents Anwar Sadat and Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, Hafez al-Assad and Bashar al-Assad of Syria, Kings Fahd and Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, and Kings Hussein and Abdullah of Jordan, among others. During his time as Ambassador in Israel, Walker worked closely with Prime Minister Netanyahu in preparation for and during the Wye negotiations. In Egypt he worked with US Vice President Gore and President Mubarak on a major initiative to reform the Egyptian economy. Walker also worked with US and Egyptian intelligence officials to counter terrorist threats in Egypt. Walker appears regularly on US and Arab television news broadcasts to offer an American perspective on current issues and on matters critical to building better relations between the peoples of the Middle East and Americans. In addition, Walker is frequently quoted in domestic and international publications, and writes articles and editorials on topics such as Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and the peace process. An accomplished speaker known for his work on both sides of the Arab-Israeli conflict, Walker offers intimate knowledge and even-handed analysis of the Middle East, its politics and its people. Walker has been a consistent advocate for tolerance and peace and a constant, strong opponent of terrorism as both inhumane and counterproductive.
Robert Wallace Business consultant, entrepreneur and author of Black Wealth: Your Road to Small Business Success, Robert Wallace is a recognized authority on the topic of minority entrepreneurship and economic empowerment and is a top motivational speaker. He has been profiled on ABC News, Black Entertainment Television and is a regular guest on numerous radio and television programs.
John Walsh A tireless advocate for victims’ rights and missing children, John Walsh has turned his passion for justice into the nation's number-one crime-fighting show, FOX’s America's Most Wanted. Then, from 2002 to February, 2004, NBC daytime aired The John Walsh Show; a new platform for Walsh to comment on current events and issues that are of concern to him. Walsh is no stranger to violent crime; in fact, his incredibly successful career as a host of a nationally televised program, and as an advocate for victims’ rights, was a career Walsh never anticipated. In the summer of 1981, Walsh was a partner in a hotel management company in Hollywood, Florida. He was living the American dream. He and his wife, Revé, had a beautiful six-year-old son, Adam, the joy of their lives. They never thought crime could touch them. But that joy was shattered on July 27th, 1981, when Adam was abducted and later found murdered. The Walshes have never received the closure that America's Most Wanted has brought the lives of so many crime victims. The prime suspect in Adam's murder, Ottis Toole, was never charged in the Adam Walsh case; he died in prison while serving life for other crimes, taking the truth to the grave with him. The story of the Walsh family's tragedy has been dramatized in the 1983 NBC television movie, Adam, and a 1986 sequel, Adam: His Song Continues. Following the airing of the broadcasts, a roll of missing children was featured, leading to the recovery of 65 youngsters. It wasn't long after Adam's death that the Walshes turned their grief into positive energy to help missing and exploited children. Battling bureaucratic resistance and legislative nightmares, John and Revé's work led to the passage of the Missing Children Act of 1982 and the Missing Children's Assistance Act of 1984. The latter Bill founded the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which maintains a toll-free hotline number (1-800-THE-LOST) to report a missing child or the sighting of one. In their son's memory, they also founded the Adam Walsh Child Resource Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to legislative reform. Recently, the centers, originally located in West Palm Beach, Florida, Columbia, South Carolina, Orange County, California, and Rochester, New York, merged with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Walsh serves on the board of directors of the National Center. Back in 1984, Esquire Magazine voted John Walsh "one of the best of the new generation." Since then, Walsh's endless quest for justice has been trumpeted across the pages of newspapers and magazines around the nation including The Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, and People Magazine, where Walsh was named one of the 50 Most Beautiful People for 1996. And CBS portraits named him one of the 100 Americans Who Changed History. Walsh’s life has also been chronicled on A & E’s Biography program as well as on MSNBC’s Headliners and Legends with Matt Lauer. Law Enforcement officials around the nation have also honored Walsh for his efforts. In 1988 he was named the U.S. Marshals Man Of The Year, and two years later received the same honor from the FBI " the Bureau's highest civilian award. The U.S. Marshals also made Walsh an Honorary US Marshal in 2003 – an honor only bestowed upon seven other people in the agency’s history. Walsh has received hundreds of other honors, including the 1984 Father of the Year Award from the National Father's Day Committee. Walsh is the only private citizen to receive a Special Recognition Award by a U.S. Attorney General, and he's been honored in the Rose Garden four times by three presidents: Clinton, Bush (Sr.), and Reagan (twice). Today, Walsh continues his lobbying efforts, testifying before Congress and state legislatures on crime, missing children and victims' issues. His latest efforts include lobbying for a Constitutional Amendment for victims' rights.
Barbara Walters Barbara Walters has arguably interviewed more statesmen and stars than any other journalist in history. She is so well known that her name and a brief biography is listed in the American Heritage Dictionary. Her numerous and timely interviews- which appear regularly on the weekly newsmagazine 20/20 and on The Barbara Walters Specials- read like a "Who's Who" of newsmakers. This past season, she did the first interview for American television with Russia's President Vladimir Putin and the first interview with President and Mrs. Bush following September 11th. She also did a one-hour special on Saudi Arabia following her visit there. Through the years she has interviewed such world figures as Russia's Boris Yeltsin, China's Premier Jiang Zemin, Great Britain's former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, Libia's Moammar Quadaffi and Iraq's President Sadaam Hussein. At the other extreme, in 1999 Walters conducted the first interview with Monica Lewinsky, which became the highest-rated news program ever broadcast by a single network. She has interviewed every American President and First Lady since Richard Nixon. She made journalism history by arranging the first joint interview with Egypt's President Anwar Sadat and Israel's Prime Minister Menachem Begin in November, 1977. Another of her "firsts" was an hour-long primetime conversation with Cuban President Fidel Castro- an interview which has been printed in half a dozen languages and shown all over the world. The Barbara Walters Specials are continuously the top-rated specials of the year and have included such legends as Sir Oliver, Bing Crosby, John Wayne, Bette Davis and Audrey Hepburn. More recent interviews of superstars have included Tom Cruise, Halle Berry, Harrison Ford, Julia Roberts, Tom Hanks, John Travolta, Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Ms. Walters' The Ten Most Fascinating People special broadcast, launched in 1993 offers a year-end review of the most prominent newsmakers of the year, as well as the selection of the "most fascinating" individual. Walters is also co-owner, co-executive producer and co-host of The View, the original forum where real women discuss relevant, everyday issues and share their daily, no-holds-barred opinions and lively, colorful, conversations. The show premiered in August, 1997 and is broadcast live from New York City. Walters joined ABC News in 1976 as the first woman to co-host the network news. In 1984, she became co-host of the ABC newsmagazine 20/20, which is currently in its 24th season on the network. Prior to joining ABC she appeared on NBC's Today Show for 15 years. She began as a writer on the Today Show, and within a year became a co-host of the program without the official title, but in 1974 NBC officially designated her as the program's first female co-host. Walters was a member of the NBC News team that went to the People's Republic of China to cover the visits of President Richard Nixon in 1972 and President Herald Ford in 1975. In addition to the Today Show, Walters for five years has also hosted her own popular syndicated series, Not For Women Only. The program went off the air when she left for ABC. Early in her career she was a writer for CBS News and, before that, she was the youngest producer with NBC-TV's New York station (WNBC-TV). Over the years Walters has received national recognition for her work and has been the recipient of numerous prestigious honors and awards. Among these include her 1990 induction into the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences' Hall of Fame and also her acceptance of the Lowell Thomas Award for a career in journalism excellence by Marist College. She received the Overseas Press Club's highest award, the President's Award in 1988 and also won three Lifetime Achievement Awards in 1991, 1993, and 2000. Walters is the recipient of honorary doctoral degrees from Sarah Lawrence, her alma mater, as well as Ohio State University, Temple University, Marymount College, Wheaton College, Hofstra University and Ben-Gurion University in Jerusalem.
George Walther George Walther is an acknowledged expert at boosting your communication effectiveness. People who manage, sell, collect past-due accounts, negotiate, serve customers, and seek to project a more positive image, regard his PHONE POWER book, seminars, and audio/video tapes as classic guides. His second book, POWER TALKING, shows people in every walk of life how to be more positive and persuasive, in every conversation. UPSIDE-DOWN MARKETING, his newest book and speaking topic, focuses on maximizing profit leverage opportunities. George Walther is one of less than 100 professional speakers to hold the National Speakers Association's highest award for platform excellence, the "CPAE," as well as the highest professional speaking designation, the "CSP." He earned an MBA in Marketing from UCLA, and a Bachelor's degree in Speech. George Walther's work is published around the world by Putnam, McGraw-Hill, Simon & Schuster, Nightingale-Conant, and Berkley Books, with many foreign language editions.
Dr. Jim Wand Dr. Jim Wand is the founder and owner of Wand Enterprises, The Hypnosis Agency. He has been involved in the field of hypnosis for over 20 years. Dr. Wand holds a Ph.D. in the field of psychology, has over 5,000 professional engagements to his credit and is considered to be one of the most professional hypnotic entertainers in the world today. He has worked with such personalities as Jay Leno, Chris Rock, Carrot Top, Larry the Cable Guy, Jeff Probst the host of Survivor, Sylvester Stallone, George Strait, and The Judds just to to mention a few. Dr. Wand has also appeared on numerous T.V. programs including a national FOX special entitled "WOW", "The Sally Show", "The Judge Joe Brown Show", the Discovery Channel, Comedy Central and numerous other appearances on FOX, ABC, NBC, and CBS. He is currently producing a hypnosis show in Las Vegas that plays 7 days per week.
Sheng Wang Taipei born, Houston raised and Bay Area based, Sheng Wang performs comedy inspired by intense honest and ill logic. His refreshingly affable stage presence combined with a healthy penchant for absurdity and self depreciation make his comedy universally hilarious. He is a recipient of last years Dan Crawford Scholarship award from the SF Punchline and is featured in the second season of Live From Gotham on Comedy Central.
Joseph Wapner Well known jurist who ruled television's "The People's Court" for over a decade. A Former Los Angeles Superior Court Judge, Wapner now presides over "Judge Wapner's Animal Court" on cable television.
Margaret Warner Washington correspondent for “The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.”
Malcolm Jamal Warner Multi-talented actor, director, singer and musician who was seen for many years on "The Cosby Show."
Frank Warren Called the most trusted stranger in America, Frank Warren is the sole founder and curator of the PostSecret Project: A collection of nearly 200,000 highly personal and artfully decorated postcards mailed anonymously from around the world, displaying the soulful secrets we never voice, and the creator of the phenomenally successful, New York Times best-selling PostSecret books: PostSecret, The Secret Lives of Men and Women, My Secret, and now, A Lifetime of Secrets. The deeply devoted and ever increasing following of the PostSecret books and Web site has made Warren one of the most sought after public speakers. He travels across the country, speaking at universities, museums, conferences, and art galleries about the PostSecret Project. He gives a moving presentation about how he became an accidental artist and the power of secrets. His award winning program is a multimedia presentation in which he shares many of the secrets that were kept out of the books. In 2007, Warrens PostSecret Web site (which receives more than 1,000,000 visitors every week) was awarded three weblog awards including Blog of the Year, and Best Community Blog. PostSecret was also awarded the Webby Award for best NetArt. The National Mental Health Association presented PostSecret with an award for Outstanding Contribution in raising public awareness about issues of mental health and suicide. His traveling exhibition of PostSecret cards was called by the Washington Post, One of the five best art shows in 2005. Each of his books, through never before seen, anonymously submitted postcards, has brought the PostSecret phenomenon to a new level, and a broader audience. PostSecret introduced readers to the liberation and catharsis of sharing secrets. My Secret presented a fascinating glimpse inside the secret world of teens and college students. The Secret Lives of Men and Women revealed the shocking, inspirational, and at times hilarious, confessions of men and women everywhere. A Lifetime of Secrets is the richest book yet. Warren showcases the projects most profound and stunning postcards, revealing secrets that have haunted their creators for a lifetime. Warren has appeared on the Today Show, Good Morning America, 20/20, CNN, MSNBC, CBC, NPR and Fox News. USA Today called Warren, An award winning Blogger, a first time author, an artist with a traveling exhibit, a possible documentary subject, the inspiration for a music video and the all around media it boy of the moment. In 2005 the All American Rejects approached Warren about using images of actual PostSecret images in their, Dirty Little Secret music video. They offered Warren $1,000, but Warren instead asked them to donate $2,000 to 1(800)SUICIDE where Warren is a volunteer. The donation was made and the music video became one of the most requested on MTV. The National Mental Health Association presented Warren with an award for his work in raising public awareness of Suicide. The PostSecret project has now raised over $200,000 for 1(800)SUICIDE. Warren continues to receive between 100 and 200 postcards everyday, and he updates his Web site every Sunday. He continues to call himself an accidental artist because he does not have an artistic background or training. I have been asked many times why I started this. It still feels to me as though this project found me. All I try to do is make the right decisions every day to protect the integrity of the project and learn to trust the journey. Warren was born in Arizona and went to high school in Illinois. He later graduated from UC Berkeley with a degree in the Social Sciences and moved to the Washington D.C. area to start a business. Fifteen years later, Instant Information Systems, his small business, takes up less of his time as he devotes more time and energy on the project that thrust him into the public eye.
Denzel Washington Denzel is known for his work ethic, his powerful romantic presence backed by meticulous preparation and investigation for his roles, his humanity, his commitment to his spiritual and family values in spite of the pressures of his environment. That commitment is also expressed in his role as spokesman for the Boys and Girls Club of America and financial support for The Gathering Place (a home for HIV infected people) and the Nelson Mandela's Children's Fund.
Maxine Waters Popular United States Congresswoman from California. She is featured in the book and exhibit "I Dream a World, Portraits of Black Women Who Changed America."
Mel Watkins The author of the highly acclaimed book, On the Real Side: Laughing, Lying, and Signifying-The Underground Tradition of African American Humor That Transformed American Culture From Slavery to Richard Pryor.
Ben Wattenberg Futurist, political analyst, pollster and social critic. Wattenberg is co-editor of the American Enterprise Institute's Public Opinion maga-zine and the author of such books asThe Real Majority; The Real America; The Good News Is The Bad News Is Wrong; and Values Matter Most: How Republicans or Democrats or a Third Party Can Win and Renew the American Way of Life. Wattenberg is also the host-moderator of "Think Tank" seen weekly on the PBS television network.
Faye Wattleton Faye Wattleton is the president of the Center for Gender Equality, a not-for-profit research, policy development and education institution created in 1995 to promote strategies for dismantling the obstacles that impede full equallity for women. The Centers mission is to educate policy makers and opinion leaders, and deliver broad-based information to the general public. Ms. Wattletons holds a bachelor of science degree in nursing from Ohio State University and a master of science degree in maternal and infant care with certification as a nurse-midwife, from Columbia University. Her mark in many walks of life is evidenced by her impressive list of awards and twelve honorary degrees.
J.C. Watts Former Congressman J.C. Watts serves as a political contributor and Republican strategist on CNN's The Situation Room. In addition to serving as a CNN contributor, Watts is the chairman of the J.C. Watts Companies, implementing business development and public affairs strategies for many leading corporations. Watts was elected to the U.S. Congress from Oklahoma's fourth district in 1994. In 1998, he was elected chairman of the Republican Conference, the fourth-ranking leadership position in the majority party in the U.S. House of Representatives. In this capacity, he provided daily counsel to the speaker of the House and participated in bi-weekly meetings with the U.S. president. Since leaving Congress, Watts has continued his civic involvement by leading a U.S. delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Conference on Racism, Discrimination and Xenophobia at the request of President George W. Bush and then-Secretary of State Colin Powell. He also joined Bush on his historic trip to Africa. Watts co-founded and co-chairs the Coalition for AIDS Relief in Africa and serves on the board of the Corporate Council on Africa. He also serves on the boards of the Boy Scouts of America and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and is a Distinguished Fellow at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. He is also the chairman of GOPAC and created the J.C. and Frankie Watts Foundation to focus on urban renewal and other charitable initiatives. Watts graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1981 with a bachelor's degree in journalism. While at the University of Oklahoma, Watts was quarterback for the Sooners, leading them to two consecutive Big Eight Championships and Orange Bowl victories. He was voted the Most Valuable Player in the 1980 and 1981 Orange Bowls. From 1981 to 1986, he started for Ottawa and Toronto in the Canadian Football League and was voted the Most Valuable Player of the Grey Cup, the CFL's Super Bowl, his rookie season. In addition to careers in politics, athletics and business, Watts has served as youth minister and associate pastor at Sunnylane Baptist Church in his home state of Oklahoma.
Damon Wayans Popular comedian trapped in an actors body and best known for his innovative television show, In Living Color, Damon Wayans has achieved unparalleled success on stage, television and film, with most recently extending his creative expression into writing, producing and directing.
Shawn Wayans Shawn Wayans made his acting debut in 1989 in his brother Keenen Ivory Wayans' I'm Gonna Git You Sucka. Immediately following, he joined the cast of the Emmy Award-winning comedy series In Living Color. Alongside his brother Marlon Wayans, Shawn co-wrote and starred in the box office smash Scary Movie. Most recently he starred in Scary Movie 2, which he also co-wrote and co-executive produced. Wayans' past film credits include the hit comedy Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood, which he co-wrote, executive produced and starred in with brother Marlon.
Murray Weidenbaum Highly respected economist and chairman of the Council of Economic Advisors during the Reagan administration.
Erik Weihenmayer Erik Weihenmayer is the first blind man in history to reach the summit of the world's highest mountain - Mount Everest. On September 5, 2002, when he stood on top of Mt. Kosciusko in Australia, Erik Weihenmayer completed his 7-year quest to climb the Seven Summits - the highest peaks on each of the seven land continents, joining only 100 mountaineers who have accomplished that feat. At age 34, he was also one of the youngest. Erik Weihenmayer also participated in the 2004 Eco Challenge - the most arduous adventure race in the world. A former middle school teacher and wrestling coach, Erik Weihenmayer is one of the most exciting and well-known athletes in the world. Despite losing his vision at the age of 13, Erik has become an accomplished mountain climber, skydiver, and skier, who has never let his blindness interfere with his passion for an exhilarating and fulfilling life. Erik Weihenmayer's feats have earned him an ESPY and recognition by Time Magazine for one of the greatest sporting achievements of 2001. In addition to being a world-class athlete, Erik is the author of the new book, The Adversity Advantage, which will teach you how to use adversity as a force for superior achievement, resilience, agility, innovation, energy, and happiness. He is also the author of Touch the Top of the World, in which Erik recalls his struggle to push past the limits of vision loss. Erik Weihenmayer tells his extraordinary story with humor, honesty and vivid detail, and his fortitude and enthusiasm are deeply inspiring. Erik speaks movingly of the role his family played in his battle to break through the barriers of blindness. Erik Weihenmayer's accomplishments have gained him abundant press coverage including repeated visits to NBC's Today Show and Nightly News with Tom Brokaw, Oprah, Good Morning America, and Inside Edition to name a few. He has also been featured on the cover of Time magazine and in Sports Illustrated and Men's Journal. Erik Weihenmayer speaks to audiences around the country on overcoming life's challenges, the importance of teamwork, and the daily struggle to pursue your dreams.
Max Weinberg Max Weinberg is one of the most famous drummers in contemporary music. Weinberg is a member of Bruce Springsteen's legendary E-Street Band. He is the music director and band leader of Max Weinberg 7 on NBC's Late Night with Conan O'Brien. From his days as an original member of Bruce Springsteen's legendary E Street Band to his popular role as music director and band leader for NBC's Late Night with Conan O'Brien, Max Weinberg has become one of the most renowned drummers in contemporary music. Called " . . . the rhythmic backbone of the E Street Band" by the New York Times, Weinberg was a key figure in the group that supported Springsteen for nearly twenty years-and through sales of more than 50 million records. Today, his creative musical cues and hilarious on-air performances as head of Max Weinberg 7 have helped Late Night with Conan O'Brien become one of the hippest shows on late night TV and the number-one show on college campuses across America.
Rob Weinstein Rob Weinstein has performed stand-up comedy across the U.S. and around the world, including appearances on NBC, MTV, FOX, Lifetime and three different shows on Comedy Central. Rob is devoted to giving every audience the very best in clean, clever and hilarious comedy. Read his amazing corporate and college show reviews, and watch video of Rob performing some of his funniest routines. You'll see and hear firsthand why Rob has received so many accolades for his well-crafted material, expert timing and warm, friendly performance style
Fran Weiss Fran Weiss Body Image, Obesity & Weight loss "The Body Image & Body Self Restitution Necessary for Lasting Weight Loss and Normalization: Beyond the Pseudo Cure & Hollow Victory" This lecture is designed to cover definitions of body image, historic background of body image, a review of the literature, psychological factors and group work regarding body image.
Frances Cress Welsing Eminent African American psychiatrist Dr. Welsing speaks on racism and African American mental health. She is the author of the well-known book, The Cress Theory of Color-Confrontation and Racism.
Xu Wenli One of China's most recognized pro-democracy advocates, Mr. Xu spent 16 years in prison for his activities as a dissident. He was a leader in the Democracy Wall movement from 1979 to 1981, edited the samizdat-style journal April Fifth Forum, and played a major role in establishing the Beijing-Tianjin branch of the China Democracy Party. Mr. Xu's health suffered while in prison. In reaction to his declining condition, international human rights groups, the U.S. ambassador to China, and Western officials called for his release. The Chinese government finally relented and released him on medical grounds in December 2002. He and his wife left China immediately for the United States to be reunited with their daughter, Xu Jin, who lives in Rhode Island.
Linda Wertheimer Before assuming this post in 2002, she spent 13 years as a host of NPR's daily news program, "All Things Considered." In this position, she helped build the afternoon news program's audience to record levels.Having joined NPR in 1971, she has been with the organization almost since its inception. She served as NPR's congressional correspondent and, in 1976, was named political correspondent- a position she held until 1989 when she became an "All Things Considered" host.In 1976, she became the first woman to anchor network coverage of a presidential nomination convention and of election night. She also is the first person to broadcast live from inside the U.S. Senate chamber.
Jerry West One of the greatest players in NBA history and former general manager of the Los Angeles Lakers.
C. Alexander West African American entrepreneur and businessman who is the chairman and CEO of the highly successful company, Dynamic Functions, Inc., a firm that specialized in acquisitions and mergers. C. Alexander West is the author of such books as: How to Secure Up to $5,000,000 Without Bank Borrowing; Tonight You Can Be in Business For Yourself;and Black Enterprise, Inc.: Case Studies of a New Experiment. Topics: The Need for African American Entrepreneurship; Creative Entrepreneurship; Entrepreneurship in a Global Market.
Cornel West One of Americas most gifted and provocative public intellectuals, Dr. Cornel West's writing, speaking, and teaching weaves together the American traditions of the Black Baptist Church, progressive politics, and jazz. Dr. West graduated from Harvard in three years, magna cum laude, and Martin Kilson, one of Dr. West?s professors, recalls him as the most intellectually aggressive and highly cerebral student I have taught in my 30 years here.? He has published 17 books and edited 13 text. In his major bestseller, Race Matters, philosopher Dr. Cornel West burst onto the national scene with his searing analysis of the scars of racism in American democracy. Race Matters has become a contemporary classic, having sold more than 400,000 copies. Praised by The New York Times for his ?ferocious moral vision,? Dr. West speaks with an utterly distinctive voice about the thorniest social and political issues of our day and bridges the gap between black and white opinion. In Democracy Matters, Dr. West returns to the analysis of the arrested development of democracy?both in America and in the crisis-ridden Middle East. In a strikingly original diagnosis, he argues that if America is to become a better steward of democratization around the world, we must first wake up to the long history of imperialist corruption that has plagued our own democracy. Dr. West is Class of 1943 University Professor at Princeton University. He has held previous positions at Union Theological Seminary, Yale University, Harvard University and the University of Paris. Dr. West was an influential force in developing the storyline for the popular Matrix trilogy. Not only is he the spokesperson for this box-office hit series, Dr. West also had recurring roles in the final two volumes. Speech Topics: *The African American Century: What Next? *Reflections on Hip-Hop: The Role of Black *Music in American Culture *Democracy Matters *Heart of American Darkness *Race Matters
Kanye West In a short span of time, Kanye West went from hitmaking producer to just plain hitmaker, as his stellar production work earned him a solo record deal and soon his beats were accompanied by his own witty raps on a number of critically and commercially successful releases. His flamboyant personality also made a mark. West showcased a dapper fashion sense that set him apart from most of his rap peers, and his confidence often came across as boastful or even egotistic, albeit amusingly. This flamboyance, of course, made for good press, something West enjoyed plenty of during his sudden rise to celebrity status. He was a media darling, appearing and performing at practically every major awards show (and winning at them, too), delivering theatrical videos to MTV that were events in themselves, and mouthing off about whatever happened to cross his mind. For instance, he once spoke out against the rampant homophobia evident in much rap music, and he also posed for the cover of Rolling Stone as Jesus Christ. He seemed to court controversy. West's steady presence in the celebrity limelight, on the other hand, could sometimes eclipse his considerable musical talent. His production ability seemed boundless during his initial surge of activity, as he not only racked up impressive hits for himself like "Jesus Walks" and "Gold Digger," but also graced such fellow rap stars as Jay-Z and Ludacris with smashes. In addition to these many accomplishments, it's worth noting how West shattered certain stereotypes about rappers. Whether it was his appearance or his rhetoric, or even just his music, this young man became a superstar on his own terms, and his singularity no doubt is part of his appeal to a great many people, especially those who don't generally consider themselves rap listeners.
Floyd Red Crow Westerman Popular Native American actor who portrayed the venerable Chief Ten Bears in the award winning hit movie "Dances With Wolves." An activist and folk singer, Floyd Red Crown Westerman has made many film and television appearances and recorded two folk albums. As a leader in the North American Indian movement, he is actively involved in working for the recognition of treaty, land, and religious rights.
Dr. Ruth Westheimer Dr. Ruth Westheimer is a psychosexual therapist who helped pioneer the field of media psychology with her radio program, "Sexually Speaking." Dr. Ruth has made wide use of the mass media to help spread what she has labeled "sexual literacy." In print, she circles the globe with her column, "Ask Dr. Ruth." She is the author of 15 books, the most recent being, Dr. Ruth Talks About Grandparents. Dr. Ruth Westheimer is a psychosexual therapist who helped pioneer the field of media psychology with her radio program, "Sexually Speaking." It began in September 1980 as a 15-minute, taped show that aired Sundays after midnight on WYNY-FM (NBC) in New York. One year later it became a live, one-hour show airing at 10 p.m. on which Dr. Ruth, as she became known, answered call-in questions from listeners. Soon it became part of a communications network to distribute her expertise, which includes television, books, newspapers, games, home videos, computer software and a web-site. Born in Germany in 1928, Dr. Ruth was sent at age ten to a school in Switzerland that became an orphanage for most of the German Jewish students sent there to escape the Holocaust. At 16, she went to Israel where she fought for the country's independence as a member of the Haganah, the Jewish freedom fighters. Dr. Ruth then moved to Paris where she studied psychology at the Sorbonne and taught kindergarten. She immigrated to the U.S. in 1956 where she obtained her master's degree in sociology from the graduate faculty of the New School of Social Research and a doctorate of education in the Interdisciplinary Study of the Family from Columbia University. She worked for Planned Parenthood for a time and that experience prompted her to further her education of human sexuality by studying under Dr. Helen Singer Kaplan at New York Hospital-Cornell University Medical Center. She later participated in the program for five years as an adjunct associate professor. She has also taught at Lehman College, Brooklyn College, Adelphi University, Columbia University and West Point. Dr. Ruth is currently an adjunct associate professor at New York University. A fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine, she has her own private practice and leads regular seminars for residents and interns in pediatrics on adolescent sexuality at Brookdale Hospital. She lectures frequently at universities across the country and has been twice named "College Lecturer of the Year." Dr. Ruth has made wide use of the mass media to help spread what she has labeled "sexual literacy." In addition to radio, her television career has spanned both broadcast and cable. In print, she circles the globe with her column, "Ask Dr. Ruth", syndicated by King Features. She is the author of fifteen books, the most recent of which, Dr. Ruth Talks About Grandparents: Advice for Kids On Making the Most of a Special Relationship (co-authored with Pierre Lehu) was published in 1997. Dr. Ruth is currently at work on several projects. She is producing two documentaries: the first, No Missing Link, is about how grandparents transmitted values, particularly religious values, during the 70 years of communism in Russia and the second is about her 1997 visit to the Trobriand Islands in Papua New Guinea. Her books also include: Dr. Ruth's Pregnancy Guide for Couples, published in 1998, a human sexuality textbook published by Williams and Wilkins and Grandparenthood. The National Mother's Day Committee has honored Dr. Ruth as "Mother of The Year" and she received a Liberty Medal from the City of New York. She has been nominated for an Ace Award by the cable industry on five occasions and her program, The "All-New Dr. Ruth Show," won an Ace Award in 1988 for excellence in cable television. What's Up, Dr. Ruth was awarded the Gold Medal from the International Film and TV Festival for excellence in educational television. People magazine included her in their list of the "Most Intriguing People of the Century."
Phillip Wexler Leading sales, management and personal growth speaker and co-author of the book, Non Manipulative Selling.
Somers White Sales, management, negotiating and financial expert.
Vanna White Glamorous television personality and co-host of “Wheel of Fortune.”
Kate White Kate White is the editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan, the largest-selling women's magazine in the world. Under her editorship, guaranteed circulation has increased by over 500,000 and Cosmo now sells two million copies a month on newsstands alone. She also oversees Cosmo Style magazine, Cosmo radio and Cosmo books. White began her career in the magazine business by winning Glamour Magazine's Top Ten College contest and appearing on the cover. She was a neditorial assistant at Glamour and laterbecameafeature writerand columnist for the magazine.She went onto holdkey job satseveralnational magazines,andeventually was named editor-in-chief of Child and then later Working Woman and McCall's. Before joining Cosmo, she served as editor-in-chief of Redbook for four years. In addition to editing Cosmo, White is the New York Times best-selling author of the Bailey Weggins murder mystery series for Warner Books, including If Looks Could Kill, and most recently, Over Her Dead Body. She is also the author of the bestselling career book, Why Good Girls Don't Get Ahead but Gutsy Girls Do. Her newest book, How to Set His Thighs on fire, 86 Lessons on Love, Men, Life and (Especially) Sex, will be published in June.
Ron White Ron White The show has played to sold out audiences in over 90 cities and has grossed over $15 million dollars. The "Blue Collar Comedy Tour" was filmed as major motion picture by Warner Bros. and released in theaters March 2003 and on DVD June 2003. "The gem of the group is Ron White…he's a natural storyteller with a wry observational skill." -- Rodney Ho THE ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION "White's inspired comic mind finds a dozen sources of humor where the average comic would find only one or two, while making a fine art of the deadpan style." -- Robert Koehler DAILY VARIETY When not performing with Blue Collar Ron is a regular headliner at comedy clubs and concert halls across the United States. He has performed on "An Evening at The Improv" and "Caroline's Comedy Hour". During his career Ron has performed with a number of acts as varied as Sam Kinison and George Jones. Ray-O-Vac and Georgia Pacific are some of the corporations Ron has performed for in the past year. Ron appeared at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in 2001. Ron was voted "Best Act of the Friday Night Gala" by Anne Sutherland, he also scored "Best Joke" and "Artistic Impression" by Bill Brownstein, both of "The Gazette". "Ron White - sheer genius. I'm coming back tomorrow night. I hope Ron White is too." George Balcan "The Gazette" Montreal Having earned rave reviews in Montreal in 2001 Ron returned for the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival 2002. The Hollywood Reporter noted Ron earned "strong reviews" for his performances in the "Masters Show" and "Nasty Show" where he was featured with the likes of Robert Schimmel and Dave Attell. Ron also appeared at the 2002 Chicago Comedy Festival. Ron appeared on "Late Night With David Letterman" in October 2002 and he appeared as part of Comedy Central's "Premium Blend" which aired in December. Ron also taped his own half-hour stand up special for Comedy Central Presents which aired May 2003. In March Ron starred in and shot a pilot for the FOX Network titled "Senor White". "White, employs witty descriptions and dips his toes into questionable subject matter that he shouldn't be able to pull off but does." – Robert W. Butler The Kansas City Star.
Kym Whitley Actress, standup comic and co-host of BET'S OH DRAMA!. Oh Drama is a provocative, high energy nighttime talk show featuring Kym and two other dynamic, opinionated ladies. The topics covered are pop culture, health, beauty, relationships, careers, spirituality, etc.
Bryan H. Barrows WHO WAS MARTIN LUTHER KING? Bryan H. Barrows, III, Master of Speech & Communications, will be touring his powerful one-man show this January and February. "WHO WAS MARTIN LUTHER KING?" tells the story of the evolution of the civil rights movement and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s place in it. Barrows, a master of storytelling, has been performing the original play since 1988. In the story, Barrows portrays Aaron, an old man who is appalled to learn that his grandson doesn't know who Martin Luther King, Jr. was. Aaron decides that it is his duty to educate the boy. "What has happened to the dream when the dreamer is no longer with us?" Aaron sighs as he begins his tale. As the story progresses, we relive life in America in the '60s: Rosa Parks, The Montgomery Bus Boycott, the riots, The March on Washington, and the final days of the assassinated civil rights leader. A high point is Barrow's presentation of King's famous "I Have a Dream" speech. Mr. Barrows has performed at colleges and educational institutions, churches, libraries, and museums across America. "My most amazing audience was at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin--" he said, "--there were over 1,500 teenagers at the program . . . I was surprised at how much they got into the show. They caught all of the jokes--even the ones that adults sometimes don't!--and they were very knowledgeable about Dr. King, the Movement and, of course, Malcolm X . . . a man mentioned extensively in the play."
Tom Wicker Legendary journalist and long-time columnist for The New York Times.
De Wayne Wickman Well known columnist for USA Today and Gannett News Service and a regular panelist on "Lead Story," BET's highly acclaimed weekly news analysis program.
Dr. Edith Widder Dr. Edith Widder, President & Senior Scientist of the Ft. Pierce-based Ocean Research & Conservation Association ORCA, was named a MacArthur Fellow for 2006. The MacArthur Foundations criteria for the awards, popularly known as genius grants include exceptional originality, creativity and capacity to contribute importantly to society based on a track record of significant accomplishment. Dr. Widder was selected for her work combining expertise in oceanographic research and technological innovation with a commitment to reversing the worldwide trend of marine ecosystem degradation. Her work was highlighted for fostering a greater understanding of ocean life as a means to better, more informed ocean stewardship. Dr. Edith Edie Widder was previously a senior scientist and co principal investigator of bioluminescence research at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution (HBOI). She has been exploring the depths of the ocean using deep-diving submersibles since 1984. Widder also holds adjunct appointments at John Hopkins University, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Florida Atlantic University and the Florida Institute of Technology. Widder is the developer of Eye-in-the-Sea (video), a deep-sea observatory designed to record bioluminescence behaviors in the ocean. She is also a co-creator of the patent HIDEX-BP, an instrument system that has become the standard in the U.S. Navy for measuring bioluminescence in the world's oceans. She also authored more than 50 peer-reviewed scientific publications, as well as "The Bioluminescence Coloring Book" for children.
John Edgar Wideman Award winning novelist and author of such critically acclaimed books as The Cattle Killing; Fatheralong; and The Homewood Books.
Jan Wiener Jan Wiener is one of many Holocaust survivors but his story is unlike any you've ever heard. At age 20, Wiener was separated from his father and sent to an Italian concentration camp. After five years of torture, Wiener escaped and joined the Allied army. His rare courage and determination to survive and see his country liberated from oppression is an inspiration to us all. Born in Hamburg, Germany to Czech parents, he escaped the Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia in 1939 to Yugoslavia. In 1940, his father committed suicide and he, Wiener, fled to Italy. From 1941 to 1943, he was arrested in Italy and kept as a Prisoner of War in the Ferramoni Tarzia Concentration Camp. He was rescued by the British and entered their military. In 1943, Wiener graduated from the Royal Air Force Officer School in Cranwell-Lincolnshire, England, majoring in navigation. A Colonel in the Czech Air Force, he has received the Czechoslovak War Cross, the Czechoslovak Medal for Bravery in Action and the British Defense Medal. He also has an English degree from the University of Cambridge in England, a masters in history and physical education from Charles University in Prague, Czechoslovakia. Wiener was arrested in 1950 and sent to a steelworks labor camp in Kladno, Czechoslovakia. Five years later, he was released and began teaching. Wiener has taught in numerous colleges and universities around the world, including Charles University in Prague; Schule Scholtz Salem in Salem, Germany; the Research Institute for Higher Education in Prague; and Williams College and Berkshire Community College, both in Massachusetts. He also has taught history and physical education on several Indian Reservations in Sedona, Ariz., and served as the head of the English department at the Language School on Prague. Wiener is the author of Always Against the Current and The Assassination of Heydrich. He has also published numerous articles in several Czech and German publications and "Father's Suicide," which appeared in The New York Times Sunday magazine. Several documentaries of his life have been filmed, including Two Homelands, Fighter and Four Pairs of Shoes. To commemorate his life, the Jan Wiener Collection was established at Boston University Mugar Memorial Library in 1971.
Elie Wiesel Nobel Peace Prize winner, author and professor, Elie Wiesel has worked on behalf of oppressed people for most of his adult life. His own experience as a Holocaust survivor has made him sensitive to people all over the world who have been deprived of their basic human rights. He has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States Congressional Gold Medal and more than 90 honorary degrees.
Gail Wilensky GAIL WILENSKY is a Senior Fellow at Project HOPE, an international health education foundation, where she analyzes and develops policies relating to health care reform and to ongoing changes in the health care environment. From 1990 - 1992, she was Administrator of the Health Care Financing Administration, overseeing the Medicare and Medicaid programs. She also served as Deputy Assistant to president (GHW) Bush for Policy Development, advising him on health and welfare issues from 1992 to 1993.From 1997 to 2001, she chaired the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, which advises Congress on payment and other issues relating to Medicare, and from 1995 to 1997, she chaired the Physician Payment Review Commission. From 2001 to 2003, she co-chaired the President's Task Force to Improve Health Care Delivery for Our Nation's Veterans, which covered health care for both veterans and military retirees.Dr. Wilensky is an elected member of the Institute of Medicine of The National Academies and its Governing Council; is Vice Chair of the Maryland Health Care Commission; and serves as a trustee of the Combined Benefits Fund of the United Mineworkers of America, the American Heart Association, and on the Advisory Board of the National Institute of Health Care Management. She is an advisor to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Commonwealth Fund, immediate past chair of the Board of Directors of Academy Health and is a director on several corporate boards. Dr. Wilensky received a bachelor's degree in psychology and a Ph.D. in economics at the University of Michigan. Dr. Wilensky testifies frequently before Congressional committees, acts as an advisor to members of Congress and other elected officials, and speaks nationally and internationally before professional, business and consumer groups.
Roger Wilkins Wilkins attended the University of Michigan, receiving his B.A. in 1953 and his J.D. in 1956, interning with Thurgood Marshall at the NAACP's Legal Defense Fund. Following graduation, Wilkins worked in several capacities as an advocate for justice. Beginning his career as a caseworker in the Ohio Welfare Department, Wilkins went on to work for the U.S. Agency for International Development and then as assistant attorney general under President Lyndon B. Johnson. Wilkins' interest in legal issues and equality stems partially from his family's background. His uncle, Roy Wilkins, was executive secretary of the NAACP from 1955 to 1977. However, Wilkins is perhaps best known for his role in exposing Watergate in the 70s a feat that earned him the Pulitzer Prize along with Bob Woodward, Carl Bernstein and Hal Herblock. Currently a network radio commentator for NPR and the Clarence J. Robinson Professor of History and American Culture at George Mason University, Wilkins has had a distinguished career that has spanned government, law, philanthropy, and journalism. He has authored two books, written at least 60 book reviews and op-ed pieces for major American papers, published articles in two-dozen magazines, and conceived, written, and narrated two Frontline documentaries. In addition to his Pulitzer, he holds ten honorary degrees, and has served on more than five boards, including those of the NAACP and the African-American Institute. In 1990, he was the national coordinator of Nelson Mandelas visit to the United States. After five years in New York, he forsook the Big Apple for the nations capital, and began a career in the U.S. government that would span the next seven years. During this time, his work took him through three different government agencies, including the State Department, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Justice. He eventually rose to serve as the assistant attorney general of the United States at the Department of Justice from 1966-69 before leaving his career in government. After a three-year commitment to philanthropic work, during which time he served as the program officer in charge of social development for the Ford Foundation, he embarked on what was to become his second major, and equally successful, career as an editor and commentator for newspaper and radio in New York and Washington. After a short time as a member of the editorial page staff at the Washington Post, he returned to New York City for five years (1974-79), where he was a member of the editorial board of the New York Times. Never quite able to resist the lure of D.C.s dual power and charm, he returned in 1980 to assume the role of associate editor of the Washington Star. From there, he quickly moved to CBS News, where he became network radio commentator. In 1990, he became network radio commentator for National Public Radio a role he continues to this day.
Venus Williams Venus is an exciting and talented tennis champion. Along with sister Serena, she is expected to dominate tennis for many years to come.
Montel Williams Host of the Montel Williams Show After graduating from high school in 1974, Williams enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in his hometown of Baltimore, Maryland, where his father, Herman Williams Jr, served as fire chief, and soon thereafter reported for duty at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. After six months, he was meritoriously promoted twice, and in 1975, became the first black Marine selected to the Naval Academy Preparatory School. Upon graduating from the Academy's Prep School one year later, Williams received a presidential appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. While at Annapolis, he studied Mandarin Chinese and graduated in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in General Engineering and a minor in International Security Affairs. He served on board the USS Sampson during the U.S. invasion of Grenada. His awards include the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, two Navy Expeditionary Medals, two Humanitarian Service Medals, a Navy Achievement Medal, two Navy Commendation Medals and two Meritorious Service Medals. He retired after 22 years' service. In 1991 he began hosting his own TV show, Montel. Williams has portrayed a Navy Seal Lieutenant in several episodes of the TV series JAG. He also played the Judge presiding over Erica Kane's (Susan Lucci) murder trial on the ABC soap opera All My Children in 2002. In 2003 he made a guest appearance on the soap, as himself, to promote an episode of his show where several of AMC's star were scheduled to appear. During an episode of his show that aired on May of 2004, Williams revealed that he had considered committing suicide, after trying cocaine as an alternative to legal medicines. He has been suffering physical pain for a very long time due to multiple sclerosis, which was diagnosed in 1999. He supports the legalization of marijuana for people who suffer from painful terminal or incurable illnesses.He has been nominated for three Daytime Emmy Awards: Outstanding Talk Show in 2001 and 2002, and Outstanding Talk Show Host in 2002. SPEECH TITLES: • Leadership That Produces Results • Overcoming Challenges • Breaking Barriers • How To Maximize Your Life’s Purpose • University Responsibility Propelling Yourself To Power ...and many more
Vanessa Williams A former host of VH-1, Vanessa Williams was the first Black woman to win the Miss America Pageant. A talented actress and singer, her record albums, "The Right Stuff" and "The Comfort Zone," quickly climbed to the top of the charts.
Walter E. Williams One of America's leading Black conservative economists and a nationally syndicated columnist.
Brian Williams Each night on NBC's all-news and information channel MSNBC and on CNBC, Williams anchors the only primetime news hour, The News with Brian Williams. Relying on the worldwide resources of NBC News, the program has quickly become a news pioneer with its in-depth coverage of the hard news of the day, interviews with the world's newsmakers, and a first-hand look at the next day's morning headlines.
Leroy Williams Even with a degree in Architecture, it's hard to believe there was ever a time Leroy Williams considered not being a performer. In place at a nice secure government job with the Corps of Engineers in Norfolk Virginia, Leroy stumbled into an open mic night at a local comedy club ...and took first place. After winning a gig as the MC, Leroy was hooked. Bitten, but still practical, Leroy did not commit to standup until returning to his home town of Houston, Texas in 1991, the Mecca of comedy in the southwest US. Leroy became a regular at the Comedy Place, which proved a great training ground. Even though the audience only consisted of 3 to 150 patrons, the show went on. You could be called on to MC or headline with no advance notice. You either worked hard at becoming a better comedian or got left back in the pack of also rans and could have beens. Leroy paid his dues the old fashioned way ...by working the road. The experience proved invaluable as Leroy climbed through the ranks to headline such notable clubs as Pierce St. Annex in Anchorage, Alaska, The Punch line and Bobby's Comedy Corner in Houston, Texas, The Comedy Lift in Omaha, Nebraska. His international performances include Germany, Japan and Korea. Having appeared on BET's Comic View numerous times and opening for such notable acts as Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer and D.C. Curry. Leroy added hypnosis to his repertoire to the delight of audiences in clubs, colleges and corporate events nationwide.
Saul Williams By 1995 he had become a talented open mic poet and in 1996 he won the title of Nuyorican Poets Cafe's Grand Slam Champion. Fame on the spoken-word circuit led him to the lead role in the 1998 feature film, Slam, which won both the Sundance Festival Grand Jury Prize and the Cannes Camera D'Or, introducing Williams to international audiences. Williams was at this time breaking into music. He had performed with such artists as renowned hip-hop artists The Fugees, Blackalicious, Erykah Badu, KRS-One, De La Soul, DJ Krust, as well as legendary poets Allen Ginsberg and Sonia Sanchez. After releasing a string of EPs, in 2001 he released the much-hyped Amethyst Rock Star with producer Rick Rubin and in September 2004 his self-titled album to much acclaim. He played several shows supporting Nine Inch Nails on their European tour in summer 2005, and has also supported The Mars Volta. Williams was also invited to the Lollapalooza music festival in Summer 2005. The Chicago stage allowed Williams to attract a wider audience. He also supported NIN on their 2006 North American tour, during which he announced that Trent Reznor would co-produce his next album. [2] As a writer, Williams has been published in The New York Times, Esquire, Bomb Magazine and African Voices, as well as having released four collections of poetry. He has toured and lectured across the world, appearing at many universities and colleges. He currently resides in Los Angeles, California.
Pharrell Williams Pharrell Williams is one half of the production duo The Neptunes (with Chad Hugo) with whom he produces primarily hip-hop music. He is also the lead singer and drummer in the funk-rock group N*E*R*D with Hugo and Shae Haley. More recently he has also done solo work as a singer and rapper, releasing his debut single "Frontin'" in 2003, and album In My Mind in 2006. He is sometimes seen with fight promoter Frank Azzalina, also of Virginia Beach, Virginia.Since 2004 (first in the song "Drop It Like It's Hot") he has referred to his rapping persona as Skateboard P. As a part of The Neptunes Pharrell has produced numerous hit singles for various music megastars. He plays the drums, keyboard, and guitar.
Armstrong Williams A rising star as one of America's most provocative and intelligent pundits, Armstrong Williams is a powerful voice for moral values in America's public debate. He defends his views on what's right for America on radio, television and in print. He is the host of The Right Side With Armstrong Williams, a nationally-syndicated talk radio program covering subjects of national and local importance and featuring prominent guest experts on today's hottest, most topical issues. He is the author of Beyond Blame: How We Can Succeed by Breaking the Dependency Barrier. A rising star as one of America's most provocative and intelligent pundits, Armstrong Williams is a powerful voice for moral values in America's public debate. He defends his views on what's right for America on radio, television and in print. True to his entrepreneurial spirit, Williams is Chief Executive Officer of Graham Williams Group, an international public relations firm based in Washington, D.C. Clients of the Graham Williams Group include corporations and individuals from the business community, entertainment industry and political arena, such as Century 21, Computerland executive Terry Giles and poet laureate Maya Angelou. Williams is also a former partner in Premier Limousine, Garden Grove Toyota and Onyx Travel.In addition, he hosts The Right Side With Armstrong Williams, a nationally-syndicated talk radio program covering subjects of national and local importance and featuring prominent guest experts on today's hottest, most topical issues. For The Right Side, Williams was voted into Vanity Fair magazine's 1996 Hall of Fame as one of the most visible radio voices in America. The show was also on television on the National Empowerment Television Network, which featured interviews with many of the same stimulating guests and topics broadcast on the radio. Past guests of the programs have included former Vice-President Dan Quayle, Hollywood "Mogul" Norman Lear, Presidential Candidate Malcolm S. Forbes, Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole and Reverend Robert Schuler. Williams has appeared on a number of acclaimed television shows, including The Oprah Winfrey Show, Crossfire, Firing Line with William Buckley, America's Black Forum and The Today Show, and is a frequent guest on several shows on networks such as CNN, CSPAN, ABC, CBS, FOX and CNBC. His book Beyond Blame: How We Can Succeed by Breaking the Dependency Barrier was published by Free Press in May 1995. Williams is also the author of Letters to a Young Victim: Hope and Healing in America's Inner Cities, a moving account of the relationship between Williams and a fellow inner-city youth named Brad. Together, through correspondence, they broke down the dependency barriers that restrain many of us from achieving our goals. A third-generation conservative Republican with a long history of political involvement, Williams has worked on Capitol Hill for Senator Strom Thurmond and served as a confidential assistant to (now Associate Justice of the Supreme Court) Chairman Clarence Thomas of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and Congressmen Carroll Campbell and Floyd Spence.Highly opinionated in print, Williams is a syndicated columnist with The Los Angeles Times Syndicate and is read in many major newspapers across the country including The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Times, The Detroit Free Press, The Boston Globe and his hometown newspaper, The Marion Star-Mullins Enterprise. Additionally, he is a frequent guest columnist for USA Today and Reader's Digest.Williams is a native of Marion, South Carolina, and a 1981 graduate of South Carolina State College. His views and opinions continually raise the American conscience as he discusses issues such as the abolishment of welfare, the restoration of morality in today's society and the key to "Right Living."
Lisa Williams Lisa Williams is a gifted Medium and Clairvoyant she has the ability to communicate with loved ones and give clear accurate messages from those whom have passed on to the 'other side'. Lisa works with your loved ones and her spirit guides to inform you of situations that you may find yourself in, or places that you will visit. She will also help you to resolve issues and problems that have troubled you for years that could be a result of one of your past lives. Lisa will pass on messages from Spirit to members of the audience, talk about her life, clairvoyance, and answer questions about her spiritual experiences. Lisa's hit show on Lifetime "Lisa Williams; Life among the Dead" is about to go into second season starting October 12th. Lisa has appeared on Oprah, Today Show, Jimmy Kimmel, KTLA, Insider and Entertainment Tonight.
Harland Williams Harland Williams Canadian actor and comedian, Harland Williams will kick off a 5 city tour this fall beginning on September 21st.Harland's goofy antics and memorable performances in There's Something About Mary, Dumb and Dumber, the cult favorite Half Baked and his regular appearances on Letterman, Leno and O'Brien have made him one of Canada's leading comedic talents.This is Harland's first solo tour with Just For Laughs though he hosted the 2002 Just For Laughs Canadian Comedy Tour, the Just For Laughs Stand-up Series on CBC in 2000 and 2001 and has performed at the Just For Laughs Festival a whopping eight times. He is currently writing and directing a project with DreamWorks Animation and will appear in the upcoming feature film Surf School and Disney's A Day with Wilbur Robinson. The Tasty Treats Comedy Tour will hit Belleville, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Halifax.Since his movie debut in 1994's Dumb and Dumber, Harland Williams has appeared in numerous movies and television shows including Half Baked, Superstar, The Geena Davis Show, Big Money Hu$tla$ and Sorority Boys with cameos in many others, like My Name is Earl and There's Something About Mary.Among his other performances, in 2001 he also provided the voice of the lustful, yet fun-loving Michael Timothy Bonner in the boycott claymation UPN show Gary & Mike along with Christopher Moynihan providing the voice of the good-hearted nerd, Gary Newton.He has performed his stand up comedy numerous times at the Montreal comedy festival and other notable venues. His stand up routine is often odd, with obscure references to topics like koalas and KFC.He also recently appeared in the 2006 comedy film Employee of the Month.
Robin Williams Robin Williams had a good deal of success with stand-up during the 1970s, including a stint at Los Angeles? Comedy Store in his own showcase. After performing on the revival of the Laugh-In series in 1977-78, Williams landed a guest role on the popular sitcom Happy Days as Mork, a lovably weird space alien from the planet Ork. Before too long, he had brought the character to his own spin-off sitcom, Mork + Mindy (1978-82), which costarred Pam Dawber as the female earthling with whom Mork falls in love and Jonathan Winters as a fellow alien. With a successful sitcom under his belt, Williams also brought his talents for improvisation and stand-up comedy to cable television, headlining two Home Box Office (HBO) comedy specials, An Evening with Robin Williams (1982) and Robin Williams: Live at the Met (1986). In 1986, he joined fellow comics Billy Crystal and Whoopi Goldberg in hosting HBO?s annual Comic Relief telecast, which donated all funds raised to helping the homeless. Despite Williams? undeniable success among audiences with his television work and stand-up comedy, his film career got off to a somewhat slower start. He made his film debut in the title role of a disappointing live-action version of Popeye (1980), directed by Robert Altman. Though he earned acclaim for his performances in a film version of John Irving?s The World According to Garp (1982) and the well-reviewed Moscow on the Hudson (1984), he also starred in less inspiring projects such as The Survivors (1983), Club Paradise (1986), and The Best of Times (1986). In 1987, Williams made the leap to the Hollywood A-list with his Oscar-nominated performance in Good Morning, Vietnam, Barry Levinson?s comedy-drama about an irreverent deejay assigned to a radio station for the U.S. Armed Services in Vietnam. Even on the set of a movie, Williams? improvisational skills became famous, and he was known for ad-libbing many a scene. Billed as Ray DiTutto, Williams turned in another funny performance in the somewhat bizarre The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988), written and directed by Terry Gilliam. Williams earned his second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in 1989, for his performance as John Keating, the inspirational prep-school teacher at the heart of Dead Poets Society. In 1990, he starred as a doctor who treats a catatonic patient (Robert De Niro) in the acclaimed drama Awakenings, directed by Penny Marshall. On a less serious (and less successful) note, he played Peter Pan in Steven Spielberg?s Hook (1991), a notorious big-budget flop which costarred Dustin Hoffman and Julia Roberts.
Juan Williams With uncompromising integrity and insight into issues and ideas that dictate our nation’s discourse, Juan Williams has risen to the top of the media as one of our most accomplished writers, thinkers, and journalists. Bridging the political spectrum with ease, Williams conveys a knowledgeable perspective of the news that is grounded in the truth and the facts. With a breadth of experience spanning over 20 years at The Washington Post, where he served as an award-winning editorial writer, op-ed columnist and White House correspondent, to his current role as Senior Correspondent for NPR and a political analyst for FoxNews, Williams understands the hot button topics that affect the way we live and do business. As an Emmy winner for television documentary writing, Williams has won widespread critical acclaim. He has written six highly regarded books on the state of our nation, including Enough: The Phony Leaders, Dead-End Movements and Culture of Failure That Are Undermining Black America - and What We Can Do About It, igniting nationwide debate with his point blank analysis of black leadership. Williams generates informed and intelligent discussion, whether engaging an audience or appearing on Nightline, Washington Week in Review, Crossfire, and Capitol Gang Sunday. Stimulating and compelling, he is a credible and experienced voice of the media.
Katt Williams Known just as much for his permed hair as he is for his animated performances and quick wit, comedian Katt Williams has been making his mark in Hollywood for over 10 years. Beginning his career at an age when most teenagers are seeking their driver's license, the young comic quickly discovered that he had a gift for making people laugh. Inspired by the likes of great humorists such as Richard Pryor, Donn Knotts, Eddie Murphy, Bill Cosby, George Carlin, Thomas Marshall, Jeff Foxworthy, Whoopi Goldberg, Jerry Seinfeld and Dave Chapelle, whom he calls the "Malcolm X of comedy," Katt Williams' entertaining standup routines are laying the blueprint for a new generation of comics. In 1999 Katt became a presence at The Improv, The Comedy Club, The Icehouse and even had his own room at The Hollywood Park Casino where he had a large, loyal following. He's become a staple comedic force on BET, appearing on shows such as "Comic View", "Rip the Runway", "Black Carpet", "106th & Park", "The BET Awards" and "BET Comedy Awards." Throughout his success he has been massively embraced by the Hip Hop community, receiving praise from Master P ("Hands down Katt Williams is the next Richard Pryor") and Snoop Dogg ("Katt is doing his comedy thing so flamboyantly and so fly with spirit of the late great Red Foxx and the spirit of Richard Pryor") Last month Katt hosted the 1st Annual BET "Hip Hop" Award Show from The Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia. In his role as host he received an overwhelmingly positive response from critics and had a chance to speak directly to Hip Hop audiences globally and share his insight on urban culture, folklore, lifestyle, history and music. More than a musical style, hip-hop is a history of American culture, and a testimony by its artists of their life experiences. The Award Show was an electrifying evening of non-stop homage and entertainment to the genre of Hip Hop music. Performances included Snoop Dogg, Ludacris, Young Jeezy and T.I. while Award Nominees include everyone from Common and Busta Rhymes to DMX and Jay-Z. Telling jokes with ease, the stand-up comic/actor wants to conquer the globe's problems with laughter. "Everything, everywhere is comedy material. To watch and view the world via television, newspapers, movies and music translate our world into funny. There is no subject where funny doesn't exist." The current Los Angeles resident has undoubtedly become a fixture on the comedic and Hollywood landscape with more than enough charisma and talent to spare. Possessing the ability to make millions of people laugh, Katt Williams is healing the world one smile at a time. Katt sums it up best, "I'm in the great comedian lane. Once you're in that lane, that's just the beginning of it. The getting there is the journey."
Roger Willie Roger Willie was born and raised on the Navajo reservation in Continental Divide, NM. Fluent in Navajo and English, he was raised in the traditional Navajo culture by his parents and family members. As an actor, he made his screen debut in MGM's production of Windtalkers in 2002. The movie was directed by internationally acclaimed director, John Woo and also starred Nicolas Cage, Christian Slater and Adam Beach. Roger studied with an acting coach for a week in Los Angeles and re-auditioned for John Woo and the producers. In June 2000, he was informed that he had been cast in WindTalkers as "Charlie Whitehorse." "WindTalkers empowers Indian youth to want to learn about their Native language, culture and history. The opportunity to recognize the courage and sacrifice of the Navajo Code Talkers, and the vitality of Native cultures, is a tremendous honor." Roger's military experience helped him prepare for his role in WindTalkers. He proudly served four years in the United States Army's elite 82nd Airborne Infantry Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Following WindTalkers, Roger had a role in the Sony film, Adaptation directed by Spike Jonz. He just completed shooting of a Showtime production, directed by Chris Eyre about the Navajo girls' basketball team from Shiprock, NM and their renowned coach. As an advocate for youth, language, culture and education, Roger travels extensively to tribal communities, schools, veteran's organizations, colleges, universities and national organizations encouraging youth and adults to pursue their goals and appreciate the importance of education. Roger has earned a Bachelor's Degree in Art from Fort Lewis College in Colorado. He also holds a second Bachelor's Degree in American Indian Studies from the University of North Carolina in Pembroke. He is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in American Indian Studies a the University of Arizona in Tucson. Roger is also an accomplished visual artist who prefers the simplicity of pencil and paper. His award winning signature pieces feature images embedded in eagle feather landscapes tied together by arrowheads. Actor, artist, educator and student, Roger Willie recognizes and embraces the opportunities that have discovered him. "Our Moment's Decision Determines Our Destiny"
Donna Willis Medical news correspondent, Donna Willis is familiar to TV audiences from her work on NBC's "Today" show, The Discovery Channel, and as host of The Learning Channel's "The Operation." She is a medical researcher and instructor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and is the Medical Director of a community health outreach program that she developed called "Breath of Life/Heart Body and Spirit."
Mary Wilson Original member of the premiere female singing group of the '60's, The Supremes, and the author of the best selling autobiographies, Dreamgirl: My Life as a Supreme and Supreme Faith: Someday We'll be Together.
Nancy Wilson Well known singer and entertainer.
Edward O. Wilson Edward O. Wilson, Pellegrino University Research Professor, Emeritus, at Harvard University, is one of the most highly respected scientists in the world today. Hailed as "the new Darwin" by Thomas Wolfe, and one of "America's 25 Most Influential People" by TIME Magazine, he has twice received the Pulitzer Prize, for The Ants and On Human Nature. Wilson's book The Diversity of Life, which brought together knowledge of the magnitude of biodiversity and the threats to it, had a major public impact. Today he continues entomological and environmental research at the Museum of Comparative Zoology. Consilience: The Unity of Knowledge draws together the sciences, humanities, and the arts into a broad study of human knowledge, and his The Future of Life offers a plan for saving Earth's biological heritage. In his new book, The Creation: An Appeal to Save Life on Earth, Wilson sounds the alarm that the earth is in danger and its destruction threatens us all—no matter what we believe about its origins. The fate of the planet rests in our hands, he writes, and the only way the earth can be saved is if science and religion join forces. Wilson has received 75 awards in international recognition for his contributions to science and humanity, including the U.S. National Medal of Science, Japan's International Prize for Biology, the Crafoord Prize from the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Germany's Terrestrial Ecology Prize, and the Franklin Medal of the American Philosophical Society. For his conservation work he has received the Audubon Medal of the National Audubon Society and the Gold Medal of the World Wide Fund for Nature. He is also the recipient of 27 honorary doctoral degrees from North America and Europe.
Charlie Wilson Former Congressman and Inspiration for Charlie Wilson's War In 1980, Texas Congressman Charlie Wilson read an alarming Associated Press report of thousands of refugees fleeing Afghanistan. Not many people knew what was happening, or even recognized what was clearly at stake in the region, but Wilson immediately arranged to have CIA funds directed toward Afghanistan doubled. He promptly set in motion what would become known as "Charlie Wilson's War" his long fight championing the cause of the Afghan people against Soviet tyranny. Wilson candidly and vividly recounts the compelling story the subject of a best selling book and a 2007 movie starring Tom Hanks of his role in reshaping the region, as well as altering history. Wilson also provides insight on how the lessons learned from "his war" apply to current foreign policy, and specifically the war we're waging today. Charlie Wilson discusses the compelling circumstances under which he began his initially single-handed crusade to help Afghanistan repel a Soviet invasion. Charlie Wilsons War: In the early summer of 1980, Charlie Wilson, a newly elected Democrat Texas congressman, read an alarming Associated Press report of thousands of refugees fleeing Afghanistan. Few people, including those in the U.S. government, were paying attention or realized what was happening. Wilson, at the time on the Appropriations Committee, phoned the committee to request that CIA funds directed toward Afghanistan be doubled, thus beginning Charlie Wilsons War his long fight championing the cause of the Afghan people against Soviet tyranny. An Inspiring Story: Out of the public eye, Wilson, along with many others, helped defeat the Soviets in Afghanistan by supplying millions of dollars to the Afghan Mujahideen. With a single phone call, Wilson helped save the Afghans from the repression of Soviet tyranny. Wilsons story became the subject of the best selling book Charlie Wilsons War, which also inspired the movie of the same name, starring Oscar winners Tom Hanks, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Julia Roberts. Wilson provides insight on how the lessons learned from his war apply to the wars of today.
Ed Wilson Ed Wilson is a Professor and Curator of Entomology at the Museum of Comparative Zoology at Harvard University. Ed is one of today's finest scholars and naturalists, and he is one of the world's leading authorities on ants. Ed is first and foremost an ant man, but as the accompanying photo shows, he has a profound admiration for scarab beetles also. He visited Team Scarab at Nebraska in 1998 and was made an honorary scarab worker. With fellow entomologist Bert Holldobler, Ed has written the definitive volume on ants, which won the 1991 Pulitzer Prize for non-fiction. He also won an earlier Pulitzer in 1979 for his book entitled "On Human Nature." Ed is the recipient of the National Medal of Science, the International Prize for Biology, the gold medal of the World Wildlife Fund, the Distinguished Humanist Award from the American Humanist Association, and the Crafoord Prize from the Swedish Academy of Sciences (which is ecology's approximation of the Nobel prize). In his books, "The Diversity of Life," "Biophilia," and "The Naturalist," he sounds a powerful alarm about the calamitous loss of species diversity that is already ongoing today. The increasing loss of biodiversity is a direct result of human activities . . . and yet relatively little is being done by people or governments to prevent this catastrophic destruction of our natural heritage. Ed's deep insights into these global problems are a clarion call to all of us to take action in our private and public lives to avert the destabilization of entire ecosystems and the tremendous loss of our fellow beings on the planet.
Shane L. Windmeyer Shane L. Windmeyer, M.S., Ed., is a leading author on gay campus issues, national leader in gay and lesbian civil rights and a champion for LGBT issues on college campuses. He is cofounder and executive director of Campus Pride, the only national organization for student leaders and campus organizations working to create a safer college environment for LGBT students. Released Fall 2006 by Alyson Books, Windmeyer is the author of The Advocate College Guide for LGBT Students, the first ever college guide profiling the 100 Best LGBT-Friendly Campuses. He is also the editor of Brotherhood: Gay Life in College Fraternities and co-editor of the books Inspiration for LGBT Students & Allies, Out on Fraternity Row: Personal Accounts of Being Gay in a College Fraternity and Secret Sisters: Stories of Being Lesbian & Bisexual in a College Sorority.
Oprah Winfrey Popular television talk show host, actress and entrepreneur, Oprah Winfrey is one of the most admired women in America today.
William Winslade Medical ethicist, legal scholar and psychoanalyst and America's leading authority on human values, medical ethics and the right to die issue. Dr. Winslade is the author of Confronting Traumatic Brain Injury: Devastation, Hope, and Healing; Choosing Life or Death: A Guide to Patients, Families, and Professionals; and Clinical Ethics: A Practical Approach to Ethical Decisions in Clinical Medicine
Kellen Winslow Member of the National Football League Hall of Fame, a member of the NFL All-Time Team, All-Pro and Consensus Collegiate All-American, Kellen Winslow enjoyed a nine-year career with the San Diego Chargers, earning All-Pro honors five times and setting both team and league records that stand to this day. He received a Bachelor of Educational Science in counseling psychology from the University of Missouri and his Jurist Doctorate from the University of San Diego School of Law. A practicing attorney, he is president of the African American Sports Foundation. As a motivational speaker, Kellen's lectures will captivate you as he addresses winning and losing on the "football" field of life.
Frederick Winters Hypnotist Frederick Winters Voted Campus Activities Magazine College Entertainer of the Year in 2006! Frederick Winters has performed over 2,000 shows and entertained over 500,000 people!
Tim Wise Tim Wise is among the most prominent anti-racist writers and activists in the U.S., and has been called, "One of the most brilliant, articulate and courageous critics of white privilege in the nation," by best-selling author and professor Michael Eric Dyson, of Georgetown University. Wise has spoken in 48 states, and on over 400 college campuses, including Harvard, Stanford, and the Law Schools at Yale and Columbia, and has spoken to community groups around the nation. Wise has provided anti-racism training to teachers nationwide, and has trained physicians and medical industry professionals on how to combat racial inequities in health care. He has also trained corporate, government, entertainment, military and law enforcement officials on methods for dismantling racism in their institutions, and has served as a consultant for plaintiff's attorneys in federal discrimination cases in New York and Washington State. Wise is the 2008 Oliver L. Brown Distinguished Visiting Scholar for Diversity Issues at Washburn University, in Topeka, Kansas: an honor named for the lead plaintiff in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision. In 2005, Wise served as an adjunct faculty member at the Smith College School for Social Work, in Northampton, Massachusetts, where he co-taught a Master's level class on Racism in the U.S. In 2001, Wise trained journalists to eliminate racial bias in reporting, as a visiting faculty-in-residence at the Poynter Institute in St. Petersburg, Florida. In 2005 and 2006, Wise provided training on issues of racial privilege and institutional bias at the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute (DEOMI), at Patrick Air Force Base. From 1999-2003, Wise was an advisor to the Fisk University Race Relations Institute, in Nashville, and in the early '90s was Associate Director of the Louisiana Coalition Against Racism and Nazism: the largest of the many groups organized for the purpose of defeating neo-Nazi political candidate, David Duke. Wise is the author of White Like Me: Reflections on Race from a Privileged Son, and Affirmative Action: Racial Preference in Black and White. A collection of his essays, Speaking Treason Fluently: Anti-Racist Reflections From an Angry White Male, will be published in the Fall of 2008, and his fourth book, Between Barack and a Hard Place: Race and Whiteness in the Age of Obama, will be released in Spring, 2009. He has contributed chapters or essays to 20 books, and is one of several persons featured in White Men Challenging Racism: Thirty-Five Personal Stories, from Duke University Press. He received the 2001 British Diversity Award for best essay on race issues, and his writings have appeared in dozens of popular, professional and scholarly journals. Wise has been a guest on hundreds of radio and television programs, worldwide. Wise has a B.A. in Political Science from Tulane University, where his anti-apartheid work received global attention and the thanks of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. He received training in methods for dismantling racism from the People's Institute for Survival and Beyond, in New Orleans. He and his wife Kristy are the proud parents of two daughters.
Harlem Wizards The Wizards present a spectacular, funny basketball exibition. Like the Globetrotters, they bring mass confusion to the courts with their hilarious shenanigans.
Don Wolf Senior scientist at the Oregon Regional Primate Research Center, Dr. Wolf directed the research that generated a pair of monkeys from cloned embryos, the first time such a method was used on a species so close to human beings. This new cloning technology means researchers will have a new tool in seeking cures, from heart disease to AIDS.
Rabbi Pesach Wolicki Rabbi Wolicki is the Rosh Yeshiva at Yesodei Torah, in Beit Shemesh. Until July 2003, Rabbi Wolicki was Development Director and Judaic studies teacher at Hillel Academy in Fairfield, Connecticut. He was also Director of Fairfield Jewish Experience, an adult education program serving Fairfield County. He particularly enjoys teaching approaches to Midrash, and imparting strong Torah research skills to his students. His columns appeared regularly in the Connecticut Post and he has hundreds of subscribers to his weekly parsha column, Pesach on the Parsha. He received his rabbinic ordination from the Chief Rabbinate of Jerusalem.
Women of the Calabash Women of the Calabash revive a rich, rhythmic heritage from the heart of African music. Combining traditional instruments and music from Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, and Black America, exploding the air with harmonious percussive beauty. This company of three women uses a variety of instruments made from natural materials (such as calabash, bamboo and wood) augmented by lyrically harmonic vocals to enchant and delight audiences of all ages.
S.B. Woo As former Lt. Governer of Delaware, S.B. Woo held the highest elected office on a state level ever held by a Chinese-American in the United States, and was the first Chinese-American Senate nominee in the continental U.S. Topics: Mainstreaming Minorities in Science and Technology; Global Competition; Crisis in Higher Education; Political Power and the American Dream.
Michael Woo Woo was the first trained urban planner and the first Asian American elected to serve as a Member of the Los Angeles City Council, the 15-member governing body which sets policy for the City of Los Angeles. For eight years, Woo oversaw land use, transportation, and basic municipal services in central Hollywood and surrounding neighborhoods comprising a highly ethnically diverse district of 235,000 constituents. Woo initiated the Hollywood Redevelopment Plan, the 30-year-plan which laid the legal, financial, and planning framework for the current revitalization of the historic Hollywood area. He played a pivotal role in planning the route and station locations of the Metro Red Line subway. Woo chaired the City Council's Transportation and Traffic Committee. Woo gave up his City Council seat in 1993 to run for Mayor of Los Angeles. Out of an initial field of 24 candidates, Woo ultimately was the second-place candidate, receiving 46 percent of the citywide vote in the June 1993 municipal run-off election. In a highly contentious and nationally-observed campaign, Woo was endorsed by President Clinton, The Los Angeles Times, and the Los Angeles County Labor Federation (AFL-CIO), and raised $3.5 million in donations for one of the most high-profile campaigns ever run by an American of Asian descent in the U.S. Woo continues to be a leader in urban planning activities. Los Angeles Mayor Villaraigosa appointed Woo to the Los Angeles City Planning Commission, a key municipal decision-making body whose members cast votes on proposed development projects which may have citywide impact. On the national level, Woo is chairman of the Board of Directors of Smart Growth America, the national advocacy organization promoting smart growth and sustainable development policies. For the last three years, Woo's research interests have extended to Chinese cities. He has been an outspoken voice calling for more sustainable approaches to urban growth in China. In 2005, Woo was invited by USC's School of Policy, Planning, and Development to be co-instructor of the school's Beijing Lab, bringing 31 graduate students to Beijing for two weeks of collaboration with Peking University students examining an urban planning challenge in the Xidan Beidajie area of Beijing. He was invited to submit a paper for a conference sponsored by the Center for Sustainable Transportation in the China Ministry of Communication, and he has given talks on sustainable urban development and transportation at Peking University, Nanjing University, the China Academy of Urban Planning and Design, and the Beijing Municipal Institute of City Planning and Design. The Los Angeles Times published his article ˇ°L.A. All Over Againˇ± on the implications of China 's growing demand for oil. Woo has been invited to give a luncheon keynote speech at the upcoming 20 th anniversary conference of the International Chinese Transportation Professionals Association (ICTPA) on May 27, 2007. For the last two years, Woo has taught a combined graduate and undergraduate seminar in the UCLA Urban Planning Department on China's Urban Sustainability Challenges.ˇ± He also is an adjunct instructor at USC.
Roy Wood Jr. Roy has been featured on the new season of CBS' THE LATE SHOW w/ David Letterman, HBOs DEF COMEDY JAM, TV Ones The Funny Spot w/ Tony Rock, BBCs THE WORLD STANDS UP LONDON, , CBS LATE LATE SHOW w/ Craig Ferguson, NBCs Last Comic Standing, and Comedy Centrals BOB & TOM COMEDY TOUR. He's also showcased at the prestigious MONTREAL COMEDY FESTIVAL and is a regular guest on the E! Network's CHELSEA LATELY. And that's just the last 2 years. Hailing from Birmingham, AL, Roys creative writing and dedicated work ethic has since earned him the right to perform his comedy in front of millions of people coast to coast. The Montreal Gazette called Roys 2006 festival performance on the New Faces show tremendous" and the Hollywood Reporter called Roy a standout. Roy has also appeared on 'COMEDY CENTRAL'S PREMIUM BLEND, BET's COMIC VIEW, CBS' STAR SEARCH (2003) where he made it to the semi-finals, 'IT'S SHOWTIME AT THE APOLLO' and LIVE IN HOLLYWOOD w/ KIKI SHEPPARD'. Steering clear of predictable topics and premises, Roy delivers comedy that gives an honest look at not only his life, but the world in which we live. The universal appeal of his comedy crosses all race and cultural lines which is why he has opened for an array of comedians ranging from D.L. Hughley, Ron White, Monique, Tommy Davidson, Bill Engvall and Katt Williams. A two-time nominee for APCA's title of Comedian of the Year Roy works numerous college and university appearances into his schedule every year as well. Roy has also carved a niche for himself in the world of radio. Until late 2006 he was head writer and producer of the Buckwilde Morning Show WBHJ 95.7 JAMZ Birmingham, AL He is also a regular guest on the 'Bob & Tom Radio Show, a syndicated morning show heard by more than six million people every morning. His hilarious prank phone calls are also carried in almost 50 different radio markets including stations in Canada and England. In addition to terrestrial radio, his prank calls are a main stay on Jaime Foxxs Foxxhole Station' on SIRIUS Satellite Radio.
Alfre Woodard Alfre Woodard pushed the art of deadpan to new heights as the hotel manager in Robert Altmans droll satire Health (1979). Eventually, she would create a rich gallery of characterizations which, whether poverty-stricken or upper class, educated or not, never lost a certain instinctual savvy and realistic viewpoint. Committed to political activism in the United States and Africa, Woodard was among artists and activists who, in 1989, founded Artists for a New South Africa, a nonprofit organization dedicated to democracy and equality in South Africa and civil rights in the United States. She also has been active in campaigns against environmental racism and efforts to raise AIDS awareness. Woodard recently played the mysterious Betty Applewhite on ABCs hit series Desperate Housewives. She has starred in Beauty Shop opposite Queen Latifah, The Forgotten, K-PAX opposite Kevin Spacey, and many more. In 1998, she starred in Maya Angelous directorial debut, Down in the Delta, as a troubled woman sent to live with relatives in the South. Woodard has also lent her voice to animation, portraying the cheetah mother in The Wild Thornberrys Movie, as well as the lemur named Plio in Dinosaur. A four-time Emmy Award winner, Woodard was honored for her performances as a grieving mother of a child killed by a police officer on the acclaimed series Hill Street Blues and a rape victim on the pilot of L.A. Law. She received an Emmy Award for Best Actress in a television mini-series for Miss Evers Boys and a 2003 Emmy for her guest-starring role in The Practice. She was also honored with an ACE Award for her portrayal of Winnie Mandela in the HBO presentation Mandela, co-starring Danny Glover. A former high school cheerleader and track star, she got the acting bug after being persuaded to audition for a school play by a nun at her school. She went on to study acting at Boston University and enjoyed a brief stint on Broadway before moving to LA. She got her first break in Remember My Name (1978), which also starred Jeff Goldblum. The youngest of three children, Woodards godmother, who claimed she saw a vision of her name written out in gold letters, named her Alfre. Woodard currently resides in Santa Monica with her husband, writer Roderick Spencer, and their two adopted children: Mavis and Duncan.
John Wooden Legendary collegiate basketball coach and motivational speaker.
Ken Wooden Child abuse and domestic violent expert and author of Weeping in the Playtime of Others.
Harriett Woods Polical activist and president of the National Women’s Political Caucus.
Tiger Woods Tiger Woods said this may have been his toughest year on the tour, however he still managed to win the Top Golfer of the Year Award voted on by his peers. This is the eighth time in ten seasons that Tiger has won the award. Tiger lost his father early in the year. Then he missed the cut for the US Open for the first time in his career. He then recovered by winning the next two majors - the British Open and the PGA Championship. He won more than 50% of the tournaments he played in the US this year. Says Tiger on a conference call with reporters, "...it was certainly the most difficult year I've ever had. My whole deal is just to try to get better every year. I win tournaments along the way if I continue to improve." Tiger won the Dubai Desert Classic and the PGA Grand Slam of Golf this year. He led US tour players in earnings. Tiger racked up nearly $10 million in winnings. Woods has now won 72 titles, 54 on the PGA Tour, numbers that make him the fifth-most successful player in PGA history and he is only 30 years old.
Bob Woodward Bob Woodward is the most respected investigative reporter in the news business, he has earned nearly every American journalism award, including the Pulitzer Prize. Woodward first gained national attention during the Nixon administration when he teamed with Carl Bernstein to investigate the burglary at the Watergate. Since then he's achieved national acclaim as the only contemporary American to author or co-author eight #1 national best-selling non-fiction books, including All The President's Men, The Final Days, The Agenda, The Choice, Shadow - Five Presidents and the Legacy of Watergate, which surveys the legacy of the Watergate scandal on contemporary politics, Maestro: Greenspan's Fed and the American Boom, a look at Federal Reserve chairman Alan Greenspan and the American economy. Woodward’s most recent release, Plan of Attack, charts the Bush administration's plans for war against Iraq. Named one of the Best Investigative Reporters in America by The New York Times, Bob Woodward has been the Assistant Managing Editor of Investigative News for The Washington Post since 1982. In 1973, Woodward teamed with Carl Bernstein at The Post to investigate the burglary at the Watergate office building. For their reporting of the scandal in the Nixon administration, the newspaper was awarded the Pulitzer Prize. Prior to reporting, Woodward served in the U.S. Navy as a communications officer. He began his career as a "newspaper man" with the Sentinel, out of Montgomery County, Maryland. In 1971 he joined The Post and in 1979 became Assistant Managing Editor of Metropolitan News. Some of his best-selling books include Wired: The Short Life and Fast Times of John Belushi, Veil: The Secret Wars of the CIA, The Commanders, The Man Who Would Be President: Dan Quayle, The Agenda: Inside The Clinton White House, and The Choice. In 2000 he published, Maestro: Greenspan's Fed and the American Boom, a national best-selling look at the American economy, Federal Reserve chairman Alan Greenspan, and Greenspan's economic legacy. Using his standard you-are-there technique in The Shadow (June 1999), he paints a detailed study of crucial points in the five administrations in which "the honesty and truthfulness of the presidents...were challenged." Woodward takes us deep into the administration of Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush and Clinton. With special emphasis on the human toll, he shows the consequences of the new ethics laws, and the emboldened Congress and media.
James Woolsey James Woolsey is a foreign policy specialist and former Director of Central Intelligence of the Central Intelligence Agency (February 5, 1993 - January 10, 1995). Woolsey was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1941 where he graduated from Tulsa Central High School. In 1963 he received his BA from Stanford University (Phi Beta Kappa), and in 1965 his MA from Oxford University—where he was a Rhodes Scholar—and an LLB from Yale Law School in 1968. Woolsey has had an eclectic career. He has been known primarily as a conservative Democrat--hawkish on foreign policy issues but more traditionally Democratic on economic and social issues. A classic Washington insider, Woolsey has held important positions in both Democratic and Republican administrations. His influence has been felt during the Carter, Reagan, Bush (elder), and Clinton administrations. During the second Bush administration, he has been strong proponent of the war in Iraq.
Steven Wright Comic with his own deadpan style of humor, Wright has appeared frequently on "The Tonight Show," "Saturday Night Live," and "Late Night with David Letterman."
Walter Wriston Respected economist and former chairman and CEO of Citicorp.
Steve Wronker Steve Wronker is the unique entertainer with a unique slant on the most hilarious, the most outrageous and the funniest form of comedy available in today's entertainment market. And the SWFB comedy hypnosis show promises to be extremely different than any other hypnosis show available. Steve is one of the more seasoned and experienced stage hypnotists in America today and entertaining audiences since 1974; comedy hypnosis shows since 1987. No matter what the audience; whether family, students or adults only, no matter what the event; Steve has a show that will fit your needs. Non-stop from start to finish, this show is beautifully choreographed from the moment the show starts to wow and amaze your audiences! A true entertainer, Steve puts lots of volunteers into his show and orchestrates a night of absolute hilarity! With over 300 routines to choose from, no two shows are alike!
Sam Wyche Former NFL football head coach and now a football analyst for CBS Sports.
Tammy Wynette Country music superstar.
Stephen Wynn Creator of Experience-Oriented Las Vegas Resorts Through his entrepreneurial brilliance in real estate and his vision of a desert city that could become a haven for people seeking an entertaining escape from daily life, Steven Wynn raised the standard for resorts and leisure living around the world. When his flagship property, the Mirage, first opened in Las Vegas, it ignited a $12 billion building boom and transformed the city into the fastest growing metropolis and most popular tourist destination in the country. Creator of such groundbreaking, experience-oriented Las Vegas resorts as the Mirage, the Bellagio, Treasure Island, and Mississippi’s Beau Rivage, Wynn now brings his masterly vision, his entrepreneurial skill, and his practical know-how to audiences around the country. Wynn offers an inspiring tale of success, full of anecdotes from the worlds of business and entertainment – and challenges everyone to raise their own standards of achievement, and then to surpass them.