Gay, disabled Westminster alum to speak on redefining possible

Internationally known Westminster University alum Spencer West returns to his alma mater for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation.

After losing both legs due to a genetic disease, West tackled challenge after challenge, learning to navigate a world set against those with disabilities. West is a global keynote speaker, disabled gay content creator, and activist. His work has reached millions of people through his Tiktok account and countless media appearances.

West will speak on Wednesday, October 25, at the annual Bastian Foundation Diversity Lecture, hosted by the Office of Diversity, Equity and inclusion.

“I am so excited to visit Westminster University and see all the changes to the campus and spend time with faculty, staff, and students,” said West. “Not only did Westminster provide invaluable knowledge for my education, but more importantly, I learned so much about myself, who I was, and who I wanted to become.”

West has more than 4 million TikTok followers and is known for summiting Mount Kilimanjaro on his hands and wheelchair. He has opened for Demi Lovato on a world tour, starred in the documentary “Redefine Possible: The Story of Spencer West,” and authored the best-selling book “Standing Tall: My Journey.”

As a Westminster student from 1999 to 2003, Spencer studied communication and theater, gaining a passion for performing on stage.

“Westminster helped build a foundation of knowledge that I could take and make my own out in the world. Getting my Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, along with time spent in the theater department, came in handy for what would become my life’s work as a motivational speaker, content creator, and actor,” said West.

West has headlined corpo rate conferences, addressed university/college students, ed ucators, members of non-prof its/associations, and mesmer ized audiences in 20,000-seat stadiums. His words and life have encouraged millions to stand up, face challenges, and embrace change, while instilling hope and empower ing leaders to motivate others to create positive change.

West’s speech is titled, “Redefine Possible: Lessons for Tackling Mountains in the Personal and Professional World.”

EVENT DETAILS

Date: Wednesday, October 25 Time: 6–7:30 p.m. Keynote; Place: Westminster University, Dolores Doré Eccles Health

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