THUNDER BAY – EDUCATION – In anticipation of the 2015 PanAm Games in Toronto, the Student Union of Confederation College (SUCCI) welcomed Canadian Boxer, PanAm Gold Medalist and Olympian, Mary Spencer, to address the college community today.
Mary inspired students by sharing the story of her athletic and personal journey, highlighting the lessons she’s learned along the way.
“I’m honoured to be visiting the Confederation College community to share some of the memorable and exciting experiences that have led me to compete at the upcoming 2015 PanAm Games,” she said. “I believe that memories and lessons are meant to be shared and I’m looking forward to doing so!”
In addition to Mary’s keynote presentation, SUCCI hosted a number of informational booths in a ‘Pan American Village’ in the Student Lounge. Countries highlighted included Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Jamaica and Peru.
“The Student Union in conjunction with our international student population is proud to celebrate Pan American culture while informing students about the upcoming athletic events,” said Chris Cartwright, President of the Student Union. “Mary Spencer is an incredible role model and we are grateful she was here to share her story during this celebration.”
Born in Wiarton, Ontario – a small town just outside of her family’s First Nation in Cape Croker – Mary is a 6-time Canadian Champion, 4-time Pan-American Champion and 2-time World Champion. She became the first Aboriginal woman boxer to compete in the 2012 Olympics. She will be competing at the 2015 PanAm Games and is currently in training for the 2016 Olympics.
Mary visited Confederation in her role as a Motivate Canada GEN7 Messenger. In collaboration with Active Circle, GEN7 encourages Aboriginal youth to live, and encourage others to live, an active and healthy lifestyle through sport, physical activity, and other means. GEN7 also helps Aboriginal youth to become leaders in their community.
Mary knows what it takes and what it feels like to fulfill her dreams and hopes her message can lead others to achieve their dreams too.
“Failure is determined by the things we allow to happen,” she said. “Success is determined by the things we make happen.”
