From Staff Reports
AMERICUS — The Sumter County Chamber of Commerce has announced that Rennie Curran will give the keynote address at the Legacy of Leadership Graduation & Reception at 6:30 p.m. May 8 at the Rees Park Economic Development Center. The Legacy of Leadership event serves as the graduation ceremony for the community’s leadership programs: Advancing Sumter (adult) and Chamber Champions (youth) as well as reconvenes past program alumni.
Chairman Jay Roberts said,“Leadership is a vital component to the success of our Chamber and our Community. Vice Chair, Paul Farr, and the Leadership Development Division have been working to provide our future leaders with the opportunity to enhance their leadership skills. Legacy of Leadership is in its third year and has done a great job celebrating our graduates and reconnect past alumni.”
Keynote speaker, Rennie Curran began his career at Brookwood High school in Snellville, becoming the all-time leading tackler in Gwinnett County. He went on to excel as a three-time All-American at the University of Georgia.
Curran was selected in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, spent some time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2012, and joined the Edmonton Eskimos in 2013.
An All-American, “The most dominant defensive player”, Titan, Eskimo: All of these words can describe Curran’s legacy. However, his fans know him by another title –– “the Liberian Dream.”
His parents emigrated from Liberia in the mid-‘80s and planted new roots in America. His mother earned a master’s degree in nursing from Emory University and became a certified diabetes educator while his father founded a shoe repair business. Curran grew up witnessing the sacrifices they made as they supported and sheltered family members and friends during a bloody 13-year civil war in their homeland. It was this compassion and selflessness that inspired Curran to stop at nothing to achieve his dreams and catalyze to change in the world.
Curran’s widely renowned athletic career has allowed him to give back to the Liberian community, supporting educational and social institutions. At the same time, he promotes goodwill and continues to build positive relationships by working with many non-profit organizations in the Atlanta Area including the Boys and Girls Club, MAP international, and the CETA Foundation.
Curran has also found success in other fields. He is a musician who grew up playing the piano, drums, and viola. He regularly travels as a motivational speaker, talking to many different organizations inspiring individuals to live life to the fullest.
In April 2013, Curran published “Free Agent – The Perspectives of a Young African American Athlete.” This motivational self-help book discusses how to overcome the adversities and circumstances we all face along our journey to achieve our dreams in life.
Curran is both an athletic powerhouse and a determined individual whose prosperity continues to invigorate countless audiences. His drive both on and off the field is a testament to his continuous passion for life. When he’s not playing or practicing, Curran spends lots of time with his family, especially his daughter Eleana, passing on his wisdom and love to her.
Curran is a man of humility, integrity, and resilience. He truly is “The Liberian Dream”, an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, musician, and American football linebacker who is currently a free agent.
The Sumter County Chamber looks forward to celebrating with past Leadership Alumni and current program graduates. For more information about this event contact the Chamber at 229.924.2646 to make your reservation, space is limited.