black background with abstract lines inspired by wrestling mats

Elizabeth A. Wentz

Distinguished Lecture with Anthony Robles

Wednesday, October 29, 2025; 5 to 7 p.m.

Register

2025 Distinguished Lecture with Anthony Robles

Anthony Robles’ story has inspired millions — now hear it in person. Join the Graduate College for an unforgettable evening with the ASU alumnus, NCAA wrestling champion and world-renowned motivational speaker whose journey became the major motion picture “Unstoppable,” starring Jennifer Lopez and Jharrel Jerome.

The evening begins with a community reception at 4:15 p.m., followed by Robles’ powerful keynote, Being Unstoppable. He will share how perseverance, adaptability and inner strength turned barriers into victories — and how you can do the same.

Stay for a rare panel discussion featuring Robles and veteran advocate Shawn Banzhaf, moderated by Dr. Cassandra Aska. Together, they’ll explore resilience, leadership and making an impact in today’s world.

You’ll also have the chance to submit your own questions when you register and be part of this one-of-a-kind conversation.

Cost: Free and open to the public.

Anthony Robles with his arms crossed against a mountainous backdrop, wearing a signet ring

Anthony Robles

Speaker

Anthony Robles is an ASU alumn, three-time NCAA wrestling champion, born with only one leg. The subject of a major motion picture (released January 16, 2025) starring Jennifer Lopez and Jharrel Jerome, Anthony Robles shares his extraordinary, against-all-odds story. 

Lighting up the stage with his authentic positivity and charisma, Anthony shares with audiences his personal strategies for success: A limitless belief in self, unrelenting determination, and the motivation to do things no one ever thought possible. 


In 2011, he earned a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies from the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts.

Event Information


Wednesday, October 29, 2025
 

4:15 p.m. (MST)

General reception 

5 p.m. 

Lecture and panel Q&A

Memorial Union, Tempe Campus

301 E Orange St., 
Tempe, AZ 85281

 

Register for the event

Map to Arbor Lawn

Unstoppable movie night on Arbor Lawn

Find your seats on Friday, October 24, at 5:30 p.m. The movie begins at 6:00 p.m.

Join the Graduate College for a special Family Weekend screening of Unstoppable on the Arbor Lawn. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs, and get cozy under the stars. We'll provide the popcorn and candy! Trigger Warning: The film includes references to domestic violence, which may be distressing for some viewers and is rted PG-13.
Anthony Robles' book cover "Unstoppable" against a maroon background

Unstoppable — From Underdog to Undefeated: How I Became a Champion

by Anthony Robles

The powerful and inspiring story of an all-American wrestler who defied the odds. "Unstoppable" is the story of one man whose spirit and unyielding resolve remind us all that we have the power to conquer adversity—in whatever form.
Unstoppable movie cover showing Anthony Robles with arms up in a winning pose

Unstoppable Movie

on Amazon Prime Video

Anthony Robles' story is portrayed on film. An original movie produced by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, starring Jennifer Lopez, Jharrel Jerome, Don Cheadle, Michael Peña and Bobby Cannavale!

About the Distinguished Lecture series

Named in honor of her generous endowment, ASU’s Vice Provost and Dean Elizabeth A. Wentz is committed to continuing the Graduate College Distinguished Lecture Series as a platform for recognizing and discussing important topics in innovation, leadership, sustainability, and graduate education as a public good, helping academics make a meaningful impact in their fields of research and their communities.