Robin Cole to speak to educators
COAL CENTER – “Build your team with men and women of character. They work hard and it is very easy to teach them to get better.” That is the kind of advice the 100 high school student leaders from Fayette, Greene and Washington counties will hear as they meet at Intermediate Unit 1 for the IU 1 Student Forum meeting from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday.
Robin Cole, former Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl champion, will address the IU 1 Student Forum to talk about leadership. IU 1 Student Forum meets several times a year and presents an opportunity for district high school representatives to come together to communicate regarding regional issues and views.
A first-round draft pick, Cole played linebacker for the Steelers from 1977 to 1987 and contributed much to the Steelers’ dynasty and two Super Bowl victories. When asked about those early years and the success of the Steelers, Cole immediately talks about the leadership of Coach Chuck Noll and his ability to build a team with character.
Cole’s public service activities include: he is the former president of the Pittsburgh chapter of the retired NFL Players Association; board member of the Central Christian Academy; member of the Washington Hospital Health and Wellness Committee; and member of the Waynesburg University Board of Trustees.
Cole has also served as spokesman for organizations like the United Way, Big Brothers & Big Sisters and the National Safety Program. He also speaks to schools and community organizations, and runs a business and a foundation.
Robin Cole’s Unforgettable Sweets sells cheesecakes to restaurants, catering companies and resorts and is looking to expand to grocery stores and selling online. The Obediah Cole Foundation, named in honor of Robin’s father, saves lives, according to the IU1.
After watching their father and uncle die from undiagnosed prostate cancer, three of Cole’s brothers were diagnosed with the disease. In September 2004, Cole discovered that he too had cancer. He was 49 – the same age his father lost his fight with the disease. Cole underwent surgery and remains cancer-free today. The Obediah Cole Foundation spreads awareness of and raises funds to fight prostate cancer.
For more information about the IU 1 Student Forum program look on the Web at www.iu1.org or call Keith Golebie at 724-938-3241 or golebiek@iu1.k12.pa.