Multicultural Student Engagement to host former NFL player Michael Sam virtually Oct. 13

Multicultural Student Engagement will virtually host Michael Sam, former defensive end for the St. Louis Rams (now the Los Angeles Rams), for a “Courageous Conversation” event at 6 p.m. on Oct. 13. Sam is the first openly gay player to be drafted to the National Football League. 

A former University of Missouri football star primed for an early-round pick in the 2014 NFL draft, Sam’s talents on the field were nearly sidelined when he came out as gay during an ESPN interview. 

While his revelation sent shockwaves through the sports world, Sam emerged as a prominent icon for inclusion and a pioneer for the LGBTQ community. 

Sam was the 2013 Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Year and was awarded the ESPN’s Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the 2014 ESPYs.  

Although Sam will be presenting virtually, Multicultural Student Engagement is hosting an in-person viewing in the Natalie and Lansing B. Lee Jr. Auditorium. Students who attend in person will receive food and T-shirts while supplies last. 

At the event, Sam will discuss intersectionality, advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community and self-truth. 

The event is free and open to Augusta University and East Georgia State College students, faculty and staff. 

For in-person attendees, face coverings are strongly encouraged and will be available at the entrance. 

For more information about the event, email MSE or view the event registration page.