UC San Diego Athletics and Society Forum Welcomes Jolinda Wade

The UC San Diego Earl W. Edwards Lectureship on Athletics and Society Welcomes Jolinda Wade

Rising Beyond Circumstance: Faith, Resilience, and the Power of Community

A Conversation with Jolinda Wade 

Registration is $25 and includes admission to the lecture, a copy of Jolinda Wade's memoir, Conquering Me, and access to the VIP reception.

Inspired by Earl W. Edwards’ enduring commitment to scholar-athlete excellence, leadership, and educational advancement, this lectureship examines the role of athletics as a catalyst for dialogue on education, wellness, leadership, and societal impact.

The UC San Diego Earl W. Edwards Lectureship on Athletics and Society is honored to welcome Jolinda Wade to UC San Diego for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation exploring perseverance, leadership, faith, and the enduring impact of community in shaping lives and futures.

Drawing from her life journey—including experiences of hardship, recovery, family, and personal transformation—Ms. Wade will reflect on the values of discipline, mentorship, belief, and opportunity that helped shape her path and the lives of those around her. Her story is further illuminated in her recent memoir, Conquering Me: A Memoir of Courage, Faith, and Transformation, which chronicles her journey through adversity, addiction, faith, and renewal, and offers a powerful extension of the themes she brings to the stage.

Her story offers a compelling perspective on resilience and purpose while inviting audiences to consider how faith, education, athletics, and community support can help individuals rise beyond circumstance and realize their potential.

Ms. Wade’s experiences also connect to broader cultural conversations surrounding leadership, family legacy, public visibility, the influence of athletics in American life, and reflections on parenting, perseverance, and personal growth. Ms. Wade is the proud mother of four children, including Olympic gold medalist and NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade, who also wrote the foreword for her latest book.