Author, film-maker and motivational speaker Dr. Robert Lemon addressed the Saint Francis community on Martin Luther King Day, January 19.

Lemon was born into a poor family “on the wrong side of the tracks.” He struggled as a child, eventually dropping out of school to join the United States Air Force.

Now, after Lemon is focused on giving back and speaking in communities where young people are at risk.

“The rest of my life is going to be the best of my life,” said Lemon. “I want to give back in the communities.”

Lemon’s speech stressed the importance of education and diversity. Lemon strongly supports the idea that just because you come from a different place, doesn’t mean you can’t be successful. He believes everyone can be successful.

Additionally, Lemon focused on the point of T.E.A.M. – Together Everyone Achieves More. He noted that he would not be successful without the help of neighbors, friends and family.

“I would not be here if I didn’t stand on the shoulders of people,” said Lemon.

SFU’s Assistant Director of Athletics for Facilities and Operations, A.J. Anderson, said what impressed him about Lemon was that “once he become successful, he did not forget where he came from. He is mentoring troubled youth.”

Anderson says he hopes that Saint Francis University students, after hearing Lemon speak, understand the importance of earning an education, and realize that it’s okay to fail.

“Don’t be afraid to fail,” said Lemon. “But always fail forward.”

Lemon ended his speech by stressing the importance of education, and his appreciation for all of the people involved in institutions of higher learning who provide young people with opportunities.

The university’s diversity organization, P.R.O.U.D. (People Respecting Other’s Unique Differences), brought was responsible for bringing Lemon to campus.