"I would like to say thank you so very much for giving me a chance to host Street Soldiers on Mother's Day. It was the best experience I have had so far in my life! I can't express how much fun I had. I think that having youth talk to other youth, that would encourage more young people to listen to the show. Again I would like to thank your for the opportunity to host Street Soldiers and would love to do it again."
Roryana Bowman
East High School
Columbus, Ohio


"Hi my name is Samantha Hebebrand and you came to my school on April 29, 2008. I thought your speech was very good! It changed my mind as to what I'm going to do on Prom night. It was very strong and powerful. It made me think that drugs are not what they are made up to be. Thanks so much! Keep doing what your doing!"
Samantha Hebebrand
Streetsboro High School
Streetsboro, Ohio


"I was at Wal-Mart yesterday and I overheard two young black men talking. Here is a little of what I heard:  "yo that ni**a went to prison not jail, PRISON" "fo'real" "now he on the radio and sh**, man I gotta do something wit my life" "fo'real"    -  I gathered that he got into some trouble and his mom told him to listen to you and your show. Keep On, Keepin' On!
Carolyn


"Dear Mr. Smith, I am a 7th grader at West Point Middle School where you just recently visited to share your story with us. I felt that your story was inspirational to the entire school, and I really think that your visit changed the minds of many of my peers about, smoking, drinking, and using drugs. I just want to say thank you for coming, and also thank you for your time. Sincerely,
Travis Wyatt


It would be an understatement to say that your story is anything short of remarkable. While we were thrilled with all of the speakers that were kind enough to spend the afternoon with us, your presentation was certainly a great way to end the day.
Porter Wright Morris & Arthur,
Attorneys & Counselors at Law

Just a word to say thanks for your presentation to our students at the Providence School, and East Jessamine High School. Your message is so positive and your ability to make immediate connection with the students is a gift that every teacher would love to have! I was also impressed that you took time to help students at the end of the program who were brave enough to come forward to admit they wanted help to stop smoking. Best wishes to you and may you receive blessings equal to those you provided for us through your amazing and inspirational story.
Owen Saylor,
Assistant Superintendent
Jessamine County Schools

"I am a fifteen year old from LaCrosse, Wisconsin, writing to thank and congratulate you on what a terrific speaker you are. Your lecture had an awesome and miraculous message that made me realize how I was living my life. I thought it was going to be another preacher preaching to us as to how bad we have messed up and need to get our act together. But from the beginning I knew you were different. You have actually been where most of us are heading or are at."
Christine Murphy,
High School Student

"After being present in your speaking I have to say you are the first speaker that has come to San Diego, that has not put me or my friends to sleep. Your words and wisdom have made a great impact on my choices and views in life. I thank you for helping clear my head and allowing me to turn "My Misery into Victory." In the few hours that you were here you really made me think. I again thank you as your time spent made a difference in my life and I will never forget you for it."
A True Listener
High School Student
San Diego High School
San Diego, Texas

"Walter Smith made a presentation to our student body about MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICES on April 14, 2005. His message and presentation were one of the best that I have heard in my 30 years as a principal. His program and the uniqueness of the presentation captivated our student body and faculty. If you are looking for a person to bring a strong message about CHOICES in life and their effects, you will not find a more motivational speaker than Walter Smith. This is the first letter of recommendation I have ever written for a presenter, but Walter's message needs to be heard by other students"
Seale Brand, High School Principal
Orange Grove, Texas

"The assembly you presented on December 6, 2004 was excellent I had reservations about putting anyone in front of more than 650 9th - 12th grade students. Yet, your message and presentation captivated our students. The discussion about theCHOICES you make and the consequences that follow was a very powerful message. Keep up the great work you are doing, reach as many young people as you can..."
Rick D. Young, Assistant Principal
Monticello, Arkansas

"I would like to thank you for your presence and presentation at Denton High in Denton, Texas on February 2, 2004. My class was in attendance and all of my students were highly impressed with your message."
Coach Roberson

"The issues Walter discussed hit home with so many students and his presentation style was tremendous. Any educator that has the chance to book Mr. Smith and does not will truly be remiss."
Eric W. Trosch, Principal
Hermitage School District, Pennsylvania.

"One of the most liberating stories ever told on 'Hard Copy'... the impact of it's implications is chilling!"
Barry Nolan, Host
ABC Television "Hard Copy"

"If the world ever needed a poster child on perseverance, you're the man."
Jerry Revish, Anchor
WBNS 10 TV - CBS Affiliate

"I'm excited for you!  These are the kind of stories that make me believe and keep my faith strong!"
Edna M. Howell, News Director
WIZF FM Radio Cincinnati
"Straight Talk Live"

"I Could never dream of achieving the eloquence with which you write... as well as the speeches.  It goes without saying that the real bonus was getting to meet you."
Penny Oakes, Director
Six on Your Side - WSYX TV
ABC Affiliate

"Having never met you before I wasn't sure what to expect, but any doubts or questions I had about your experiences or speaking abilities were quickly put to rest. It is often difficult for my managers to motivate their employees to do just about anything, but you had everyone on their feet in a matter of minutes. Any personal issues of problems belonging to my employees were quickly put into perspective after hearing your story."
Zachary Swartz, Owner
Apex Mortgage Services

Your "AGAINST ALL ODDS" presentation was a great success! Since I was responsible for arranging your presentation everyone has taken the time to express his/her appreciation to me. Motivating, Educational, Energizing and Fun are only a few of the positive comments.
Michael A. Spriggs,
Program Coordinator Department
of Public Utilities
Columbus, Ohio

"Walter Smith does not talk down to people. He does not talk up to people. He looks them straight in the eye and hits them right in the gut with a powerful message."
Robert L. Ayers, Jr.,
Warden Pelican Bay State Prison

"This is the third time that you have been to EKCC since 1998. While your message is always outstanding, you continue to add to your presentation and perfect it. You are in the perfect position to be a role model to inmates as you have been where they are now and your message of determination and character is one that can speak to them like no other."
Kathy Litteral, Program Director
Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex

"Mr. Smith has an incredible story about determination and perseverance. If anyone is looking for an incredible motivational speaker, look no further than Walter D. Smith. While this was my first opportunity to work with Mr. Smith, I can assure you it will not be my last."
Brian Hull
Director of Student Activities
University of the Ozarks
Clarksville, Arkansas

"The middle school years are such a critical time in the life of any young person and it is important for them to develop the skills they need to make good choices and set positive goals for their future. I believe your presentation will help move some of our students along in that process in a positive way. Keep up the good work."
Larry D. Bricker, Principal
Waynesboro Area School District
Waynesboro, Pennsylvania


"Your message was more convincing than anything I (or any member of my staff) could have possibly conveyed. Moreover, your attitude and the dynamic manner of your delivery mesmerized and engaged many of the students, especially the ones who want to appear to be tough. I made a point of trying to notice facial expressions and other signs of connectivity and was convinced that you had the students hanging on to every word. For days, my students as well as staff members expressed accolades about the impact of what you had to say, and those who were not in attendance expressed regret about not hearing you. It is not often that people give so much of themselves without expecting tremendous gains. Continue to create" extraordinary results." My hope is that you will come this way again."
Wilhemenia Christon, Principal
Ansonia High School
Ansonia, Connecticut


"Walter Smith was very personable and got down to the kids' level. They responded to his message enthusiastically and were very attentive throughout the duration of the presentation. Smith addressed sexual purity, drug use, attitude, alcohol, smoking, and much more. I am the Drug-Free Club sponsor and have heard many different talks given about dangers of illegal substances. None had quite the impact that this message did. Walter Smith will be a great addition to any assembly or meeting your are having. I strongly recommend that he comes to visit your school."
Heather Cates
Omaha High School
Drug-Free Sponsor
Omaha, Arkansas


"I would like to express my feelings to you concerning the terrific school assembly presented by Walter D. Smith. His message concerning the effects of tobacco, drugs and alcohol made an overwhelming positive impression on our student body. His rapport from the very beginning of his presentation captured the attention of the students. they listened to his message intently. Without a doubt it was the best assembly we have had for our students in the fifteen years of my tenure at Omaha. I strongly recommend that your school invite Walter to speak for he truly demonstrates how much he cares for the children's welfare and provides both facts and personal experiences to guide them in their realization of the problems of using tobacco, drugs or alcohol."
David E. Land, Superintendent
Omaha School District
Omaha, Arkansas


"Walter D. Smith immediately developed a rapport with our students and held their attention throughout the program. I was especially impressed that he presented the message that actions have consequences. Our staff strives to emphasize this about the very things we so frequently target as potential risks to our school population. It was also good to hear him give credit to God for helping him turn his life around after he had made bad choices with bad consequences. I think it made an impact that he admitted he had made bad choices. One of our biggest problems with discipline is the "it's someone else's fault" mentality. Our teenagers talked about his message for days and shared it with their families and friends, so I feel that his program met and exceeded our expectations. I would highly recommend Mr. Smith as a speaker. Our staff and students were definitely touched by his message."
Rex Vincent, Administrator
Muncie Christian School
Kansas, City Kansas


"Many days after your inspiring performance, your speech remained the topic of conversation, not only among students, but with the teachers as well. To put it simply, the student body, grades 9-12, almost 500 students, were enthralled with your message and presentation. You spoke at their level. They embraced your message and took ownership of your valuable experience. You are a dedicated and concerned individual. Thank you for making a difference in all of our lives."
Louise Mason, Assistant Principal
Brookfield High School
Brookfield, Ohio


"Your message was loud and clear and truly connected with our students. I have had many people over the years make presentations to my students, but never have I seen so many connect with the speaker as they did with you. I can't tell you the number of students and faculty who genuinely thanked me for bringing you in to speak. I believe you have left a lasting impression on everyone who was in attendance. Your story is one which will stay with our students and faculty for a very long time. I am impressed with your ability to captivate over 800 students and faculty with a message that needs to be heard."
Francis R. Scruci, Principal
Bellevue Senior High School
Bellevue, Ohio


"Your topic was well timed with today's youth and your ability to connect with our students had everyone's attention. I can't tell you how many students commented on your presentation. In speaking with our student body, everyone I spoke with thought you did a great presentation. My teaching staff as well as our students took away visual impressions of your experiences. I spoke with one young man that has always been in trouble for the last couple of years and your presentation and eating lunch with him, has given him a chance to be a better person. I hope he continues to think of your message. I also truly liked the way you spoke about the importance of getting an education during high school. Your comments during your presentation rang true with many of our students."
Ralph J. Carducci, Principal
Monroe High Trojans,
Monroe, Michigan


"Thank you so much for the wonderful presentations you delivered to our student body. Middle school students can be daunting but you had them "eating out of your hand." As you could tell from the attention and response, you made a very positive impression. The message you deliver is one every student in the United States should hear. We as educators try to get this message of choices across to our students but seeing you and hearing your true life experiences based on choices made such an impact. I also want to thank you for taking the extra time to speak one on one with some of our more troubled students. It is that special touch that can make all the difference in the way a person's life will go. The other administrators and the teachers were very complimentary of your presentation and of you as a person. Thank you for making me "look good" in my choice of you for our first assembly."
Jane Adams, Counselor
Grant County Middle School
Dry Ridge, Kentucky


My name is Shelby and I am 13 years old, you came to my school a few months ago and really inspired me. Just recently I became a part of a drug prevention program called S.T.A.R.S. (Students Taking Action, Reaching Solutions). I would really like if you could come to a meeting and do a program. I live in LaPorte and at my age most of my friends have had a drink of alcohol. We are sponsored by BACODA and in 2008 we are taking STARS to Puerto Rico. But Before we can do that we must learn more about the effects drugs would have on us. So please sir I would really appreciate if you came to a meeting. Thank you,
Shelby Fox,
La Porte Junior High School
La Porte, Texas

I would like to thank you for coming to our institution last week (June 6, 2006) and speaking to the inmate population and to our community relations luncheon. I have received many positive comments from our inmates and visitors about your presentations. Your presentations provided a strong message about the choices we make in life and the effects they have on not only ourselves but also on our families and showed that we can overcome our personal hardships and achieve our goals. Again thanks for coming down and we hope to have you visit again.
David Frye, Assistant Warden/Programs
Lee Adjustment Center
Beattyville, Kentucky

"On behalf of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, this letter is meant to express the sentiment of a broadly felt thank you for a job well done! Not only did you inspire the campus community, but the host community of the City of Fairbanks as well. Your appearances and presentations on campus, at the brunch and in the media, at large, are being widely discussed. The overwhelming sentiment is to: bring him back as soon as possible!"
LaJuana K. Williams
Director, Multicultural Affairs
University of Alaska Fairbanks

"The presentation for the inmates at Fairbanks Correctional Center on August 7, 2006 was energetic and motivating.  Positive comments have come from both inmates and staff.  Inmates were able to relate because you have 'been there, done it'.  Staff appreciated your straight forwardness regarding not blaming the 'system' and taking responsibility for your actions, and giving credit to those who supported and helped you along the way."
Beverly Munsterman
Acting Superintendent
Fairbanks, Alaska

"I found your speech to be entertaining and captivating. You portrayed a message that most people don't while speaking in front of students. You didn't "sugar coat" life and talk about how life is going to be a walk in the park. No, you explained how hard life can be and you proved that by your wrongful time spent in jail. I just wanted to say thanks for coming to our school and giving us a great presentation, something different and more exciting than other presentations!"
Brandon Boyd (10th Grader)
North East High School
North East, Pennsylvania

"This letter serves to convey our deepest appreciation for your visit to Emanuel County Institute on March 27, 2007. Your strong testimony and message in regards to making good choices was very effective in its delivery. Our students definitely were attentive and enjoyed the dual presentations. The message of choosing a drug and alcohol free life-style is critical within the school setting. We cannot afford to loose our young people to the harmful affects of these two chemical killers of your youth. Your passion for young people was made evident by the interaction you had with our students in the assembly and in the cafeteria. Thank you for making an impact on our students and encouraging all in attendance to make the choices needed to place them on the path to success in life."
Boyd K. English, Principal
Emanuel County Institute

"If you want a no-nonsense, cut to the chase speaker that will powerfully and positively impact your students, parents and staff, Walter Smith is your man! His delivery, energy and connection with his audience is incredible!"
Tim Law-Coach and Consultant
Success Learning Systems
York, Pennsylvania

"You recently spoke at my school on April 18th 2007. Age 15 and a freshman my name is Chelsea. I did not get to watch you in the auditorium. Instead, we had to watch from our homerooms. No matter where I watched though, I feel you would have inspired me just the same. I would like to say thank you. Thank You so much for your story and inspiration. You have taught me a lot in only one hour. For that you are one of my greatest heroes. If I would have been in the auditorium that day I would have gone up to you after the presentation when you called those people up. I myself am dealing with many challenges in my life. So, thank You again for your story and witnessing first hand on how a drug addiction can ruin someone's life. I bet you save millions of lives everyday. "
Chelsea Brown
Student of Northeastern High School