This year, Merrill’s Great Speaker Forum Committee had a wonderful opportunity to join a program called “A Walk in Their Shoes” which brings top-notch speakers right to our community.
The program coordinator, Colin Hanson, secures sponsors and advertisement for the event. This year’s theme is “Breaking Barriers: In the Military, In Sports, and In Life” and features Sharon Robinson, daughter of baseball legend Jackie Robinson.
Sharon is the author of several works of fiction and nonfiction. She has also written several widely praised nonfiction books about her father. There will be a presentation for grades 6-12 at the Merrill High School Fieldhouse on March 13 at 12:45 p.m. and the community is invited to attend.
The Great Speaker Forum began in 1978 and has really been a gift to our students from community residents and business owners through their donations. The committee has been comprised of students in grades 6 through 12, along with school staff and community members; with the students ultimately picking the “Great Speaker” each year.
“Our students on the Great Speaker Committee took advantage of a wonderful opportunity this year,” said Dr. John Sample, Superintendent of Merrill Area Public Schools. “I’m proud of their decision and excited to welcome Sharon Robinson to Merrill.”
Sharon Robinson will also be addressing the public at the Grand Theater in Wausau later that evening at 6:30 p.m. There is no admission for her Grand Theater speaking engagement and the public is invited to attend. There will also be a book signing held after that event.