42nd Annual Toledo Excel Aspiring Youth Conference January 31, 2026

The Aspiring Youth Conference is believed to be the longest-running free conference of its kind in the country. The annual event brings notable speakers from across the nation, indeed, the world, to speak to Toledo area middle school through high school students; their parents; and community. For 41 years the conference has encouraged students to better understand the importance of education, social justice, and wellness, to their lives.

This year we feature two incredible guests!

Chamique Holdsclaw- Hailed as the “female Michael Jordan,” Chamique Holdsclaw was a basketball superstar. From leading The University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers to three straight NCAA national championships with her team and legendary Coach Pat Summitt, to an Olympic gold medal, to the WNBA, nearly no one has had more focus or drive on the court. And yet underneath, she was pushing down mental health issues that eventually led to a total mental and physical breakdown. She was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and severe anxiety. After a long journey of learning to manage her illness, Chamique has come back just as fierce. But this time, she’s dedicated her life’s work to mental health and wellness activism.

Maurice Clarett - This Ohio football legend led the Ohio State Buckeyes to a National Championship in 2002 and his popularity in the state at that time rivaled LeBron James. Maurice’s path took a difficult turn following his collegiate success, he made poor decisions which culminated in a 7½-year Pr*son sentence. It was during incarceration that Maurice committed to a process of profound personal transformation. He immersed himself in self-education, leadership, and mentorship. Since his release, Maurice has become one of the most sought-after speakers in the nation, sharing his candid reflections on overcoming adversity, mental wellness, and the discipline required for meaningful change. He is the founder of The Red Zone, a behavioral health agency based in Ohio that provides mental health and addiction recovery services to youth and families. Maurice’s story—featured in ESPN’s acclaimed 30 for 30 documentary Youngstown Boys—is a testament to the power of second chances.

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Host or Publisher David Young