MEET

Odell Bizzell

Leadership Speaker for College Students

"We absolutely loved hearing from Odell during our speaker series. Odell is consistently full of energy and knowledge that he is willing to share with our students. His energy is uplifting and encouraging to our young students, and we cannot wait to work with Odell in the future!"
Sara Squires
University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Odell Bizzell's Programs

The Talk: A Diversity/Inclusion Conversation That Must Be Had​

Finding Our Place: Creating Belonging Through Purposeful Recruitment helps sorority members reimagine recruitment and retention through the lens of belonging and purpose. In this inspiring and practical session, KJ McNamara introduces the concept of sorority as a “third place” and guides students in creating a culture where both new and existing members feel seen, valued, and excited to stay involved. The result is more meaningful connections—and stronger, more sustainable membership.

All students have to deal with diversity which can often be very difficult and problematic. Odell’s signature program on the topic of inclusion works to break down barriers that often limit us from truly connecting with one another.

How do we make diversity relevant and actionable in a world where everyone spews their opinions on social media?

This conversation is a high energy, engaging, and interactive discussion that helps students navigate through the banter and issues on their timelines. What Odell offers is an actionable plan to be more diversity minded.

Audience members will…

  • Explore the relationship between empathy and social responsibility

  • Consider how to respond positively to those with opposing views

  • Develop community on campus to champion worthwhile causes

  • Begin to understand how to facilitate important conversations with peers through the lens of diversity, inclusion and mutual respect

Ideal Audiences

  • Leadership Development

IMPACT: Six Ways to Exhibit Leadership​

How to Fight Fair: Navigating Conflict as a Woman in Leadership is a candid and empowering session that helps women leaders face conflict with confidence and clarity. KJ McNamara unpacks the unique challenges women experience when navigating tough conversations and equips participants with practical tools to handle conflict in a way that strengthens relationships, leadership, and sisterhood. Ideal for leadership or professional development spaces, this program creates room for real growth without sacrificing authenticity.

Student leaders want to leave a legacy; they see themselves as being able to positively improve the trajectory of their campus and community. But many get lost in the grind of what it means to be a truly transformational leader.

That’s where Odell can help.

Do you want your students leaders to be energized about leadership? Do you want them to combat apathy and produce positive energy in the student body? Odell has worked with campus leaders across the nation to produce meaningful, long-lasting change. In this signature program he breaks down the word IMPACT into six specific strategies leaders can use now and into the future.

Audience members will…

  • Examine the connection between inspiration and overcoming apathy

  • Develop strategies to maintain motivation even when things seem boring or mundane

  • Explore specific types of courage leaders need to have

  • Explore specific types of courage leaders need to have

Ideal Audiences

  • Fraternity/Sorority Life
  • New Member Orientation
  • Mental Health & Wellness
  • Healthy Masculinity

Meet Odell Bizzell

Odell Bizzell is a nationally known blogger, speaker, author, internet personality, and expert in training leaders to overcome obstacles to succeed. While in high school Odell started a small candy retail distribution center that earned him over $75,000 while earning an academic scholarship to college.

As a successful keynote speaker, Odell has been featured in USA Today, Yahoo Finance, CNBC.com, and over 200 media outlets. Through his company, the Impact Student Success Program, Odell has partnered with over 200 colleges, youth organizations, and the military to reach tens of thousands of students. He’s also the author of 5 books and is a nationally recognized voice in helping students turn their life story into a success story.

His engaging and interactive presentations help students learn about the intersection of leadership and diversity and how to become more effective leaders in a diverse world. Odell has presented on the same stages as Super Bowl winning coaches, national politicians, and celebrities like Stephen A. Smith, Dave Letterman, and Oprah Winfrey.

First Year experience Speaker Odell Bizzell

Odell Bizzell's Impact

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