About Us Sporty King's signature keynote speech, “How To Be UGLY” (Unique, Gifted, Lovable You), delights and enlightens audiences of all ages, ethnicities and genders. Best used as a keynote + concurrent session speaker, it is his passion for manipulating the English language that brings magic to his words… a magic that makes him the ideal person to deliver your winning message. Also consider using Sporty as M.C. (L.) * (Master of Ceremonies, Creativity & Listening: one who listens intently to delight your audience with the connecting points throughout your program.)
Sporty is a native of Harlem, in New York City. He started writing poetry in 1969 to combat homesickness. Having won an ABC (A Better Chance) Scholarship, he went away to private high school (in Massachusetts). During his first year he was one of seven blacks in a student population of 200+... second year 1 of 5... 3rd year 1 of 3.... His poetry started out somewhat militant, but with an introspective base of seeking to understand [rather than perpetuate].
King began his 18-year career at The Wall Street Journal in January of 1975 as a messenger. While at the Journal, he began sharing his poetry at the department Christmas party. Sporty wrote poetry that would get each person in the department's name into the poem. It became the highlight of the party, and heads of other departments began seeking invitation to his department's party. Eventually, more departments merged their party, and people vied for position in Sporty's poem. One year the poem got up to 70 names, 10 pages…. He served his final 6 years at the Journal as an Advertising Sales Manager, before retiring to pursue his oratorical gift.
A Chicago Public Schools registered vendor and ISBE Certified Provider for CEU/CPDU credits, Sporty has consistently been on the program at the Chicago Archdiocese of Chicago’s Young Adult Ministry seminar; Poetry Instructor at Harvey APC After-school Mentor Program; Young Authors’ Club Coordinator at Ella Flagg Young Elementary School; a former Bolingbrook Community League basketball coach and referee; Adjunct Professor at Kennedy-King College; former Artist-In-Residence at Purdue University; former Public Speaking instructor at Harold Washington College and Prologue Alternative High School; Past Board member and (now) volunteer at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boys & Girls Club; and Board President at WYTEC (Westside Youth Technical Entrepreneur Center). All places where he enjoys a hands-on influence in the lives of young people.
That influence is fueled by Sporty’s belief that we touch children’s lives by re-educating and refreshing adults. Thus his message is well received with parents and auxiliary organizations as well. He credits his monthly sessions with seniors at Chicago Department on Aging Centers as keys to his ability to increase communication between generations.
An expert on personal success, the impact of words in our lives, and turning any negative into a positive, Sporty is the author of 4 books: “I Found Out I’m Dying: A Celebration of Life” … a ‘story’ in poetry that reminds us to be comfortable with the decisions we make in enjoying life to the fullest; “Do You Have Any Idea… How Fine You Are?” … a poetic tribute to God’s greatest gift to, and source of mankind – Woman; “StartingToday…” weekly affirmations for daily living; and “Your Name Came To Mind” … the sequel to “I Found Out” reminding readers to be comfortable with spiritual growth. | Among King’s media appearances are the Chicago Tribune; ABC/TV’s “Someone You Should Know” news segment with Harry Porterfield; and weekly on WGN/TV’s nationally syndicated Minority Business Report, delivering inspirational messages about business and life. He is a member of Toastmasters International, Trinity United Church of Christ, and in 1996 finished as one of the Top 9 speakers in the world at the Toastmasters International World Championship of Public Speaking. Sample Satisfied Annual Clientele List
National Black MBA AssociationHarold Washington College
Chicago Department on Aging
Dr. King Boys & Girls Club
Toastmasters International
DuSable Museum
Phalanx Family Services What audiences have to say about Sporty
“Imagine having an inspirational poetic monologue presented to your audience based on what has just happened! Sporty can do it, highlighting and reinforcing the message. His material is creative, introspective, and timely. This is a one-of-a-kind treat to make your program even more memorable.”
- Carolyn Arthur, DTM, 2007-2008 District 30 Governor, Toastmasters International
“I, along with the Academy participants, admire your professionalism and knowledge of subject matter as well as ability to relate to the adult student. Your extensive work experience, dedication to continuing education and untiring ambition for nothing short of perfection, make you the ideal educator.”
- Sue E.Wasylik, MPA, FMP, Director, Hospitality Academy at McCormick Place
“Great being on the platform with you at the Retired Senior Luncheon. Your presentation was superb, as validated by the applause you received. Hope our paths cross again. Keep up the great work!”
- George O’Hare, “Accentuate the Positive”
“Your message was very well received and fit perfectly into the theme of our program. You should feel very ‘U.G.L.Y.’ based upon the response of the audience!”
- John W. Molyneaux, CLU, General Agent, MassMutual
“...take the time to listen to what people like about themselves, and focus on their best qualities... clear, easy to understand with the right touch of humor.”
- Carol Penning, Village of Bolingbrook, IL
“I was particularly impressed that you made yourself available throughout the conference; getting to know us and the situations we’re confronting, thereby enabling you to personalize your presentation to the individuals and issues at the conference. We certainly ‘got our money’s worth’ and more!”
- Lawrence C. Johnson, President, Illinois Affirmative Action Officers Association
“Many, many thanks for the inspirational words you gave at our Parent Development Program graduation yesterday at the Chicago Historical Society. Your message was a powerful reminder to the parents of the importance of using positive language in order to help their children aspire to do their best. You also made them feel very special for what they had accomplished. Several of them told me how blessed they felt after hearing you speak.”
- Edith Njuguna, Program Director, Imagine Chicago
“...focus on leading, not managing... get out of my department more... get more feedback on my style... liked the integration of poetry with lecture.”
- Gretchen Schroeter, Metromail |