North Columbus News

High school junior Saniah Pittman recently engaged with students at The Ohio State University, inquiring about the college experience compared to high school. Pittman and four other students from Akron-area schools, supported by LeBron James' I PROMISE program, visited Ohio State's campus for a day of learning and interaction.

The visit included attending a class at the John Glenn College of Public Affairs, where they participated in discussions and toured the campus. The highlight was when NBA champion LeBron James joined the class via Zoom to discuss his philanthropic efforts.

James is set to receive an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree from Ohio State, pending approval. His talk focused on community improvement and the importance of listening to those he aims to help. "I knew that I always wanted to give back to my community," he said, emphasizing his commitment to societal change through engagement with families and children.

He underscored using his platform for long-term impact: "I have too much of a platform and too many resources to not give back." Students had the opportunity to ask questions, including graduate student Kendall Ahern who credited James' early work as inspirational in her advocacy journey.

Ahern's question about inspiring future leaders prompted James to reflect on generational change. "It started in 2009," he noted, highlighting the ongoing influence of his initiatives.

After James' address, students engaged in group discussions where Pittman's question about college life received positive responses from undergraduates Kristin Close and Nailah Ddamba. Close appreciated focusing on personal interests during college: "I love being able to take classes I really like."

James spoke about passion-driven advocacy: "When it comes to taking a public stand on an issue, it has to be something for me that I feel passionate about." His words motivated Close: "Hearing LeBron James tell me to keep doing the work... I'll keep going."

As the session concluded, James encouraged students to use their platforms effectively: "It starts with you guys... You guys are highly respected."