Former NBA player will promote study abroad programs

Five-time NBA champion Steve Kerr will emphasize the importance of study abroad programs and international understanding when he speaks to Grand Valley students.

Born in Beirut, Lebanon, Kerr went to school in several regions of the Middle East when his father, Malcolm Kerr, was a university professor. Named president of the American University of Beirut in 1982, Malcolm Kerr was assassinated in 1984.

Despite his familys tragedy, Steve Kerr remains committed to a global education. Grand Valleys Office of International Education is sponsoring his visit. Interim Dean Mark Schaub said its important to bring in someone students will listen to.

'Students who might normally skip a program about study abroad might listen to a five-time NBA champion,' said Schaub.

Kerr will speak at Grand Valleys Cook-DeWitt Center, at the Allendale Campus, on Wednesday, February 18, beginning at 2 p.m.

Now a NBA analyst for Turner Sports, Kerr won championships as a player with the Chicago Bulls (1996, 1997 and 1998) and San Antonio Spurs (1999 and 2003). Kerr played basketball for 14 years and remains the NBAs all-time best three-point shooter with a 45 percent average (726-of-1,599).

Through the Office of International Education, more than 400 Grand Valley students participate in 40 study abroad programs.