About Arshay Cooper 

Arshay is a bestselling author, motivational speaker, and changemaker whose story is at the heart of the award-winning documentary A Most Beautiful Thing. Growing up on Chicago's West Side, Arshay became captain of the first All-Black high school rowing team in the U.S. - a transformative experience that inspired his memoir and advocacy work. 

A two-time Golden Oar recipient, Arshay’s influence spans sports, education, and social justice. His acclaimed memoir was nominated for an NAACP Image Award and adapted into a film executive produced by Common, Grant Hill, Dwyane Wade, and the Winklevoss Twins. He is also the founder of the A Most Beautiful Thing Inclusion Fund, bringing rowing to thousands of under-resourced youth nationwide.
Arshay has spoken before Congress, the NBA and WNBA, the Obama Foundation, and numerous institutions across the globe. His next book, Let Me Be Real with You, will be released by HarperCollins in October 2025. 

Keynote Synopsis

Arshay believes in bringing people together, seeking out opposing ideas to collaborate and find consensus rather than focusing on differences and “othering.” Arshay helps audiences navigate difficulties and challenges with grace, awareness, hope, and even humor, and fortify their commitment to a life lived in service to others without sacrificing their own self-care.

As higher education navigates a period of profound change, Arshay's message offers timely insight: how we come together, lead with purpose, and build a future grounded in equity, collaboration, and human connection. Arshay's unique, empathic, and vulnerable approach of calling in is not only refreshing but gravely needed. Arshay's strengths and influence shine through his storytelling and he urges audiences to engage in our divided world with gentle and driven intention. 

Join us for a keynote that will challenge, uplift, and unite. Together, we'll explore a path forward for our institutions, our students, and our shared mission to engage learners for life.