Greg Louganis, a world class athlete and Olympic medalist, will speak at 8 tonight in Eisenhower Auditorium.
His speech is the first in the 2003-2004 Distinguished Speakers Series.
Louganis made history winning a silver medal for platform diving in the 1976 Olympics at age 16. Louganis also won two gold medals in the 1984 Olympics, one each for the platform and springboard diving events.
He also won two gold medals in the 1988 Olympics, making him the first man to win double gold medals in diving in two consecutive Olympics.
Louganis was awarded the Sullivan Award as the nation's most outstanding amateur athlete. At the 1988 Olympics, he was given the Maxwell House United States Olympic Committee Spirit Award for demonstrating Olympic spirit and courage after sustaining an injury during a dive at the Olympics.
He has also appeared as a co-host from Atlanta on Good Morning America during the 1996 Summer Olympics, a first for an openly gay athlete.
Though Louganis is known for his athletic achievements, he is also an author and lecturer.
His autobiography, Breaking the Surface, details his life, including his difficulty with coming out, his achievements in diving and how he has dealt with HIV.
The book topped the New York Times bestseller list and was adapted for television.
The Distinguished Speakers Series Committee asked Louganis to speak at Penn State because of his accomplishments in sports and his status as a role model.
"We selected Louganis for his athletic achievements and unique life story," said Matt Boyer, committee chairman. "He's overcome many challenges in the past, so the committee's hope is that he will connect with a lot of students on campus."
Lindsey Broad, the committee member who will be introducing Louganis tonight, is excited about this year's line-up.
"It's the kick-off to a really great series," she said. "[Louganis] is a great way to start the season."
Committee member Brian Boyd echoed Broad's statement.
"It should be a great speech. I'm sure Mr. Louganis will do a great job."
The session is free and open to the public, but tickets are required for admission.
Tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today at the Eisenhower box office. Limited tickets might also be available tonight at the door.
