Stedman Graham visits Barrington High School with career advice

Stedman Graham, author of the new book, “Identity: Your Passport to Success” spoke to Barrington High School students Thursday along with former Chicago Bears Matt Mayberry and Desmond Clark on behalf of the organization Athletes Against Drugs (AAD).

Graham, chairman and CEO of S. Graham & Associates, a Chicago-based corporate and educational marketing and consulting firm, founded AAD in 1985.

Graham has written 11 books including two New York Times best sellers. But he is perhaps best known for being Oprah Winfrey’s partner since 1986, with the latest rumor being that they will marry later this year on her television network to boost its ratings.

Mayberry is a free agent NFL linebacker formerly with the Chicago Bears. He is a fit life coach and motivational speaker, who has been in the fitness industry for over 20 years, and is noted for his intense workouts.

Clark is a 12-year NFL veteran tight end who is currently a free agent after the Bears released him in 2011. He is the founder and executive director of 88 Wayz Youth Organization, a mentoring program that focuses on a cognitive-behavioral approach to youth mentoring.

The mission of ADD is “leveraging national and local athletes, celebrities, and corporate leaders to educate youth to make healthy life decisions.” The vision of AAD is to “help youth develop life skills for economic opportunities that will change their lives.”