Testimonials
Let your legacy be told through the stories of the lives you have changed. Nothing is better than having someone else praise the good work you do for others. Don’t listen just to Dr. Luff, see what others have to say about him and the services he can provide to you and your organization.
"I have such fond memories of our meeting in the White House and, of course, [Doug’s] terrific speech at Northeastern University’s commencement."
Bill Clinton
Former President of the United States
"Douglas compares most favorably to the brightest students I have taught in the Masters program at Harvard. I have no doubt that he will be an asset to your program and to the field [of education]."
Janine Bempechat
Ed.D, Assistant Professor, Harvard University Graduate School of Education
"[Doug’s] enthusiasm, determination, and heartfelt expression on [his] life views proved to be quite an inspiration for all of us who were in attendance."
Jeffrey M. Ederer
Area Director Housing Services, University of Massachusetts at Amherst
“Doug Luffborough has provided his gifts and talents of making a difference in the lives of youths throughout the Antelope Valley for many years and has touched thousands with his motivation and spirit.”
Lori Goodell
Past President, Antelope Valley Youth Mentoring
"Doug was tremendous! What a perfect person to have as a speaker for this event! His story of perseverance is incredible and his delivery was both entertaining and inspiring. That WILL be a tough one to top next year!"
Mike Vigneux
Director of Public Affairs, Colleges of Worcester Consortium, Inc.
"Having Doug Luffborough speak at our urban summit for executive leadership was a great decision! Doug’s story of being a struggling inner city youth facing homelessness and poverty was one that most of the leaders in the forum are very familiar with in their roles as urban school district administrators. Doug’s story of triumph from Homeless to Harvard left them inspired to continue their work to help disadvantaged youth in their systems. His passion, dedication, and ability to motivate others to turn hearts makes him one of a kind!"
Lisa Finley
Vice-President, Western Region, Renaissance Learning Inc.
"Doug Luffborough was the keynote at MinnCAP’s Annual Training Conference in 2016. His story is one of struggle, heart-break, perseverance, and triumph. Doug captured the audience with his story as an inner-city youth struggling with poverty and homelessness, who made decisions to escape the chaos that surrounded him. Many attendees stated that Doug was the highlight of the conference. Doug is a survivor, and we are so happy he was able to be a big part of our conference this year. After reading his book, Watch Me Rise, I have a deep respect for the struggle that Doug and his family went through. He has a never give up attitude which carried him all the way to Harvard and beyond. I appreciate his passion as he continues to exceed the expectations of those naysayers who doubted him when he was younger. He is a testament to never giving up!"
Leah Pauletti
Director of Operations, Minnesota Community Action Partnership (MinnCAP)
"I first met Doug Luffborough in 2007. He was a speaker at an afterschool professionals conference in Palm Springs. Being a young 20-something mid-level manager, my eyes were open and my entire outlook of leadership and management was turned upside down. Doug’s passion and conviction in teaching the importance of understanding your Leadership Compass and how you can use it to become a better manager, leader, and mentor to your employees gave me a new perspective on how I can positively impact the lives of my employees. Doug is an incredibly intelligent, thoughtful, and articulate speaker and teacher. Using his life experience and overcoming personal challenges, Doug is able to empathetically relate to many demographics of individuals and professions. His book, “Watch Me Rise” has been a motivating tool. I credit Doug with the type of leader I am today and my professional development throughout my career. Thirteen years later, Doug always has time to answer an email, question, or offer helpful advice. Doug is a man of integrity, outstanding character, and a person I am proud to look up to as a mentor."
Emily Mitchell
Financial Representative, Northwestern Mutual
"I always love hearing about real "Possibility Thinkers," and [Doug] fits that description perfectly! I applaud [his] determination and perseverance! [Doug is] setting new standards for excellence and [he is] an inspiration to all of us!"
Dr. Robert H. Schuller
Senior Pastor, The Crystal Cathedral
"Doug, in my life I have three types of moments: moments of misery, moments of truth, and moments of magic. I want you to know you provided me with a moment of magic!"
James W. Coghlin
Chief Quality Officer and President, Coghlin Electric
"It is not every day that we hear of someone overcoming the obstacles brought on by poverty and homelessness. I cannot thank [Doug] enough for sharing [his] incredible story will all of us."
Richard E. Ring
Executive Director, Pine Street Inn
“It has been wonderful working with Doug! He has the charisma and energy to work with any group. His enthusiasm and genuine positive attitude are evident in everything he does. He is sincere, versatile and works well beyond what is expected.”
Nellie Dougherty
Outreach Coordinator/EOPS Counselor, San Diego Mesa College
“When I was asked to be the Campaign Chair for the United Way of Dutchess County in 2009, our first plan of action was to identify a guest speaker who could motivate and galvanize our community at our campaign kick-off. Somebody who can genuinely speak about overcoming adversity and the benefits of the programs we fund and the community impact organizations like the United Way are trying to have. For me, there was only one person I could think of that represents true “triumph” and that one person is Doug Luffborough who helped us reach our goal of over $1.7M."
Tyrone Muse
CFO Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union
“We had Doug present at our “Administrative Kick off Day” at the beginning of the school year. Doug is an exceptional speaker and professional development trainer. Doug’s story and ability to connect with our administrative team kicked off our school year in the best way possible. We are very grateful for the God given talents that Doug possesses—it is a gift that has inspired our team to do our best.”
Dr. Edwin Gomez
Superintendent, Adelanto Elementary School District
"Doug 'Dr. Luff' Luffborough, III, speaks to the hearts of his audience. He is a gifted speaker with the power to transform his audience by opening their minds, invoking empathy, and establishing a deep understanding of the realities many of our students are challenged with including poverty, institutionalized racism, domestic abuse, and homelessness. Through the sharing of his amazing personal story, Dr. Luff inspires and lifts everyone in the audience so that they rise to meet their purpose. If you need a heart-inspired speaker or educational consultant, Dr. Luff is the perfect choice!"
Carmen Diaz
Superintendent, Piner-Olivet Union School District
From the moment Doug stepped onto the stage, it was evident that he captured the attention of our leaders. He caught the hearts of all. During his passionate and emotional speech, he shared his life’s journey filled with how he overcame challenges and leadership lessons rooted in resiliency, perseverance, and determination. Doug’s story is one to be shared with all and is a testimony to how we can learn to lead and accomplish our dreams, no matter the circumstances.
Jenifer Calcamuggi
Head of Learning, Shake Shack
"I will keep [Doug’s] speech here as part of my permanent files. It is an understatement to say again what a fine young man [he is]. It was an honor to have [Doug] at the Kennedy Library."
Susan K. O'Brien
Education Department, John Fitzgerald Kennedy Library
“Doug is a man of humanity, humor, and hunger. He spoke to a gymnasium of 1,000 people in Carlsbad, CA, at the request of my daughter. He did not touch 1,000 hearts that day; he touched one heart 1,000 times. What a memory - what a speaker!"
Don Ogan
President, Aroma Housewares, Co.
"I would like to acknowledge [Doug’s] superb presentation. [His] comments were cogent and delivered in a very professional manner. I know of few people who could have done so well in such a highly charged setting. [He is] a credit to the College, and I consider ourselves fortunate to count [Doug] as one of our alumni."
David P. Boyd
Dean, College of Business Administration, Northeastern University
"This was by far the most dynamic Senior Recognition Breakfast we’ve had in 17 years!! Everyone was thrilled – you connected so well with our students that they’re still talking about it (as is the staff!) Thanks so much for sharing your powerful story with them – the message that comes across is one that will stay with them forever."
Pam Boisvert
Vice President, Colleges of Worcester Consortium, Inc.
“Mr. Luffborough is a dynamic speaker that illuminates the heart and mind, while opening the possibilities of the human potential. He provides the motivation and relevancy needed to move our children to the 21st Century rigors. His experiences as a School Board Member, CEO and Harvard Graduate provide a rich testimony that anything is possible.”
Dr. Francisco Escobedo
Superintendent Chula Vista Elementary School District
"For the past four years I have chosen to have Doug Luffborough as a presenter for our 9th grade retreat. Doug is a dynamic, multi-talented presenter who possesses the ability to connect with our students in a special way."
Teresa Collis
Principal, Oceanside High School
"We were very excited to have Dr. Luff speak to our student body and help us set the tone for a positive and successful school year! He easily connected with the students with his enthusiasm, and drew them in with his inspirational and unique story. Dr. Luff was truly engaging, connected with the audience, and delivered a thoughtful and powerful message. We were greatly appreciative of Dr. Luff’s ability to inspire students to reach their greatest potential!"
Renee Nollar
Assistant Principal, Arroyo Vista Middle School
I had the opportunity to listen to your keynote speech last Friday. I must admit it was one of the best keynote speeches I have ever heard. It really spoke to me about the impact of educators on children both positively and negatively. Especially as one of the only black educators at my site, I want to be the educator who makes a positive influence on all students that walk in and out of my classroom.
Joslyn Gipson
San Diego Elementary School Teacher
