Topics Include:
Disability AwarenessCharacter Education & DevelopmentPeer LeadershipOvercoming AdversitySelf-esteem EnhancementAnti-Bullying StrategiesEmpowering the YouthEmotional IntelligenceDrug and Alcohol PreventionParent WorkshopsProfessional Development WorkshopsCommencement SpeakerSpecial Counseling Visits with FamiliesCareer Days
Biography
Since he was ten years old, Paul has presented disability awareness and character education programs at many elementary, middle, and high schools around the country. He enjoys sharing with students his own day-to-day experiences with humor, with two objectives in mind. First, Paul wants to help others become truly excited about themselves and what they can do with the right attitude and desire! Second, he frames the program around the positive perspectives and realities of growing up with cerebral palsy, helping students to bridge the gap that always seems to separate the word, "normal," from "disabled."
To achieve these two goals, Paul shares the experiences within his own life that have allowed him to reach a simple dream he had many years ago -- to be able to walk. These programs challenge the common perceptions and stereotypes that are so often applied to people with disabilities. The experiences he shares are funny and insightful, and in no way depressing, and help to emphasize that one's capabilities should always overshadow their disabilities. There is also no better feeling in the world than to make students smile and feel good about themselves, because they then may develop the motivation to overcome their own challenges to realize the goals and dreams that they have!
Twenty-seven years later, Paul has since delivered over 2500 motivational programs to thousands of children and teens, parents, teachers, and school administrators. He has captivated high-school students at peer leadership conferences, motivated thousands of athletes and coaches at the Special Olympics, and inspired government representatives at the United Nations. His video emphasizes a true testament to the unrelenting power of courage and unconditional love, shared through his experiences and feelings of self-criticism, frustration, reflection, humor, joy, and, ultimately, triumph.
His speaking resume includes undergraduate and graduate students at Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Cook College, Rider University, Kean University, Ramapo College, Montclair State University, Wheaton College, and Villanova University. Since 1998, his disability awareness workshops have been requested by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) at their annual teacher conventions in Atlantic City. Invited by former New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman to discuss his experiences during an individualized education program (IEP) development conference, Paul has captivated students and teachers alike in seventeen different states, including California, Michigan, Ohio, Missouri, Washington State, Virginia, Florida, Wisconsin, Indiana, Connecticut, and Massachussetts.
Paul has earned a Ph.D degree in environmental science and meteorology from Rutgers University. He is also a published author, with guest columns in magazines, newspapers, and even books. Recently, Paul has authored a full chapter of the book, "New Jersey's Environments: Past, Present, and Future," edited by Rutgers historian Neil Maher. Click here to order the book directly from the publisher (Rutgers University Press); Click here to read the first page of Paul's book chapter. In addition, his doctoral research was prominently splashed onto the front page of the New York Times, with a full color photograph!
Paul's second book contribution is beyond his wildest dreams! Earlier last year, Paul wrote a heartfelt thank-you note to actor David Hasselhoff. In his letter, Paul explains how the Knight Rider television series made him understand (at an early age) that each of us can be heroes - in other words, ordinary people who triumph over extraordinary circumstances - like our favorite television characters did each week. Paul's inspirational letter is now published in David's memoirs, and available in bookstores! Paul's letter appears on Pages 273-278 of David's book.
Click here to read Paul's letter to David. We are sharing a sample of reader comments here.
Paul's message is simple: when we allow our imagination and our realistic possibilities to soar, we can confidently leap over some of the most overwhelming hurdles that life throws at us.
Programs
Elementary Schools (K-5)Taking the "Dis" out of "Disability" Paul emphasizes the critical issues of tolerance and respect and relates these topics to self-esteem and the development of a "Yes! I Can" attitude. By sharing his life experiences, he uses himself as an example to help inspire students to learn from their mistakes and failures, and in the process, helps them realize that success is readily available with hard work and determination. His captivating analogy that describes the long-term effects of teasing encourages students to develop compassion and an understanding of others, and in essence, learn to emulate the core ethical values as the basis of good character.K-5 School Testimonials
Middle/High Schools (6-12) Access to Success: A Dream, Motivation, and a Winning Attitude!His interactive presentation outlines a prescription for success which includes strategies to avoid the temptations of peer pressure while re-channeling that energy into becoming a positive peer leader. Students are taken on a journey of self-discovery through Paul's own life experiences, his humorous and insightful stories, and even a dramatic video. A Q&A session follows each program. Follow-up classroom visits are available to help stimulate discussion, student interaction, and critical thinking.Letters from Middle & High School StudentsTestimonials from K-12 PrincipalsTestimonials from K-12 Teachers
Filling the Holes of Self-EsteemPaul's presentation describes the memorable experiences for his success which includes strategies for dealing with peer pressure and abstaining from drug and alcohol use. In his program, Paul shares some effective strategies for "Saying No" To Drugs and highlights the dangers associated with substance abuse (drugs, tobacco, alcohol). He explains how substance use/abuse can induce low self-esteem and self-worth. This is a captivating program designed to discourage middle and high-school students from experimenting with these substances and encourage them to take care of their bodies/health as one of the hallmarks of high self-esteem and peer leadership. An audience Q&A session with Paul follows the program.
Teacher/Staff WorkshopsBe The Role Model You've Always Wanted To BePaul's inspirational presentation will inspire and motivate any school staff at any level. Participants have an opportunity to reflect on their own lives and careers, while Paul shares his own uplifting story of overcoming tremendous adversity to become a doctoral student and professional speaker. During his in-service workshops, he closely interacts with his audience to share effective teaching and learning strategies for students with special needs.Testimonials from Other Professionals
Be The Role Model You've Always Wanted To BePaul's inspirational presentation will inspire and motivate any school staff at any level. Participants have an opportunity to reflect on their own lives and careers, while Paul shares his own uplifting story of overcoming tremendous adversity to become a doctoral student and professional speaker. During his in-service workshops, he closely interacts with his audience to share effective teaching and learning strategies for students with special needs.Testimonials from Other Professionals
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TESTIMONIALS
"Outstanding motivational presentation! Paul was warm, sensitive to the childrens' questions, informative, inspirational, and displayed a wonderful sense of humor. Children are already comparing him to some of the 'heroic characters' they've read about in literature this year." -- Sharon Kitley, River Plaza School, Red Bank, N.J.
"I believe everyone is meant to contribute something in life in one way or another. By being born with cerebral palsy, you were given an challenge. The current perceptions from others also offered you an additional challenge. You have worked especially hard to triumph over your disability and show everyone what you are made of. You have inspired many people in life through your everyday actions and motivational assemblies to be the best they can be. I really liked how you describe the ups and downs and how life is a fantastic dream. It means a lot being your Hero when, in fact, YOU are already a hero to me and to many other friends around you!" -- Steve Swenson, 2006 NCAA Division III Swimming Champion
"Paul is refreshingly open, honest, and all accepting! His ability to demonstrate 'no fear' brings reality to life! He does an excellent job in taking the "dis" out of "disability." -- Marilyn D. Kinelski, Coordinator, N.J. Coalition on Disabilities & Addictions
"Hey Paul, It's people like you who TRULY keep people like me going. Thanks for your letter, thanks for your courage, thanks for allowing me to use it in my book! From my 1980's television show, Knight Rider, ONE MAN CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE, AND YOU ARE THAT MAN! With respect and admiration," -- David Hasselhoff, actor and singer
"If I was born with cerebral palsy, like Mr. Wichansky, I would have liked to grow up as him." -- Alex, 3rd Grader, Franklin School, Summit, N.J.
"I left that room with tears in my eyes and determination in my mind. After that day, whenever I doubt myself, I think of Paul. He overcame so many obstacles set before him, and yet he turned out to be a knowledgeable and inspirational person. I now tell myself: if Paul can do it, I can too." -- Lauren, 8th Grader, Allentown, N.J.
"I now realize I can conquer my INNER disabilities and that I can now do things with such assurance. I have realized that to get to your dreams, you have to be able to trip and fall once in a while to learn from your mistakes." -- Christen, 6th Grader, Morris Plains Borough School
"Using powerful imagery, Paul explained how the pain of negative words never really goes away. Paul's message taught the students that everyone has something wonderful to offer. We all have special gifts inside waiting to be shared. Kindness and understanding can help those gifts be revealed." -- Noreen Daniel, PTA President, Califon School, Califon, New Jersey
"Inspirational! Paul heightens the awareness of all the effort involved in dealing with a handicap and reinforces, to children, that people with disabilities are just regular folks dealing with a weakness. His theme of reminding students that we all have strengths and handicaps is a good one!" -- Sandra Goodman, Franklin School, Summit, N.J.
"Your friendly and open nature is simply magnetic, and it's easy to see how students, and people in general, are drawn to you. There are few people in this world who possess the God-given talent to single-handedly transform others' attitudes and perspectives in a positive way, and you, dear Paul, have undoubtedly been chosen to be one of them." -- Paula Little, Barnegat
"Your experiences and words of wisdom truly touched me and all of my students, as you can see from the enclosed letters. I do believe that there is a 'plan' for all of us, and your life story is evidence that nothing can and should get in the way of your dreams. Your courage is an inspiration to all who get to meet and learn from you. Thank you again!" -- Emily Mauro, Teacher, Dix Hills, N.Y.
"Our audience very quickly became affected by this amazing speaker. They responded appropriately to his sense of humor and appreciated some very simple life lessons he looked to instill upon everyone. Paul challenged us to rip the 'T' out of the word CAN'T. He focused so much attention on the importance of a smile and how contagious your smile and your positive personality can be. He helped the students and the adults to appreciate what it means to live with a disability and that anything is possible with a supportive network of family and friends and an inner determination. Meeting Paul Wichansky was a very unique opportunity. I wish all of you could have had the same experience; since you weren't able to, let your childrens recollections and reactions be the next best thing!" -- Michael Donovan, Vice-Principal, Ridgewood Avenue School, Glen Ridge, N.J.
"There was this boy in the back row making fun of you. Well, after the assembly was over, I went to my principal and told him about that rude boy who was making comments. After school, I went to him and said, you know what, that man out there learned so much even though he has cerebral palsy, he learned how to walk, talk and even has a great job, and you couldn't do that for your life." -- Mina, 8th grader
"We loved your presentation! It made us smile, and even cry because you touched our hearts! Thanks so much for coming to our school! Someday many of us hope to go skydiving, too! You've inspired us! You made us think positively and believe in ourselves more. It was really cool to see that you could really do anything if you try. Your artwork is amazing! That Porsche looked like a photograph, and not a painting! You told us to always follow our dreams. I never thought about the fact that every day is a part of the dream. Paul, you are our role model because you showed us how you can pursue your thoughts and dreams if you try!" -- Mrs. Millard and her 5th-grade class, Seven Bridges Middle School, Chappaqua, N.Y.
"I was so touched that I can't even put it into words. I deal with depression and anxiety everyday. I am getting help for it but is a battle and is very hard at times. I have been putting off many things in my life like relationships, college, and social events."
"I have missed so much. I am moving to South Carolina in November to get a brand new start. You instilled in me so much courage to not let our disabilities get the best of us. You gave me so much hope and shed a big beam of light in my path of darkness. Don't ever stop doing what you are doing. You have changed my life and I bet millons of others. So I thank you!
"When I finish school, I will send you a copy of my diploma and it's going to read: "Thank you Paul, "this ones for you!" -- Love Always, Amanda
"Paul, you have worked really hard to create the life you've always wanted from a place where many people easily give up and end up feeling sorry for themselves (many people do this even without a disability!). You live as an example for others that there is so much more to life than most people even dare to dream of! So many people lose sight of their dreams and do what works in the moment, eventually settling for a life that eventually makes them unhappy. Your assemblies are a powerful counter-strike against that whole concept, and it's really inspiring to see that there are people out there looking (and succeeding!) to make a difference in that area of the world!" -- Michael Holak
"You've got the best car ever ... and the best speeches ever ... and the best stories ever! End of story. Please come back to our school!" -- Chloe, 8th grader
"I just wanted to thank you for coming to my school today and giving your presentation. Not only did you give me a new outlook on life, but you also greatly inspired me to excel and to strive to do my best in all that I do. You showed me that life has it's obstacles, but with motivation and determination to succeed, anything is possible! I greatly respect you for proving the doctors wrong in learning to walk. You went even farther than that -- you went skydiving and scuba diving. Thank you, Paul! You are my inspiration for when I need it. I hope you the best in all that you do and hope you succeed at all your other obstacles you may come across in life." -- Greg, 8th grader
"Hi Paul! You deeply inspired me. I loved the way that you told us stories, educated us, made us laugh, and SMILE! If there is one way to live your life to the fullest, you are doing one of the best jobs I've ever seen. Today, you said everyone has a role model, and that yours is your grandmother. I am proud to say that you are now one of mine. It would would be an honor to grow up and help people the way you do! And from the 1980's television show, Knight Rider, where one man can make a difference, I think that you really are that one." -- Emily, 8th grader
Paul has discovered that cerebral palsy is among the greatest gifts that he has received in life, and enjoys sharing positive perspectives with students. Realizing a Dream: He welcomes the opportunity to meet singer Billy Joel before one of Billy's Master Class lectures at the University of Delaware.
An 8x10" copy of the above photo, autographed by Paul himself, is actually hanging in Billy Joel's apartment in New York City!
Below, Paul poses in front of a farm near Seattle in May 2005. For an entire week, he was hosting assemblies at all schools in Lewis County, one of the largest counties in Washington State.
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