Steve Pemberton

Steve Pemberton is a Child Advocate, Motivational Speaker & Author of A Chance in the World, (Thomas Nelson 2012).

He currently serves as the Chief Diversity Officer and Divisional Vice-President for Walgreens, living a very different life than the one initially envisioned for him. A ward of the state for much of his childhood, Steve has made opportunity, access and equality pillars of his personal and professional life. He is recognized as one of America's most inspiring executives.

His unconventional journey to corporate America has had a profound influence on the lives of others, inspiring young people and teaching professionals and care givers how to overcome tragedy and become more than their circumstance. A Chance In The World: An Orphan Boy, a Mysterious Past, and How He Found a Place Called Home, is Steve's riveting autobiography that chronicles his difficult path through foster care and determined search for his family. It is an inspirational story that crosses generations and cultures, but specifically speaks to those who have had the odds stacked against them. His relentless journey to overcome, find his biological family, and right the wrongs of his parents' past, is a model for all children to follow.

His powerful story has been featured by People Magazine, The Boston Banner, Crain's Chicago Business, Chronicle News Magazine, WMAQ, and Fox's WPWR.

Steve in addition to sitting on UCAN's President's Board, serves on the boards of Citi Performing Arts Center, Home for Little Wanderers and National TRIO Alumni Association. He was UCAN's keynote speaker for this year's 13th Annual Youth Leadership Awards dinner. Steve is a graduate of Boston College and is married with three children. His wife Tonya Pemberton sits on UCAN's Governing Board.

Plese click here to learn more about Steve Pemberton or to purchase his book please visit www.chanceintheworld.com.