Kind Words From Kind People
Rev. Steve Allen at The Lovett School
“Ben came to speak in our upper school chapel in the fall of 2023. After he was finished, dozens of students and faculty told me they thought he was an incredibly effective speaker. Several commented that we should have more speakers like Ben in the future.
I think Ben’s message takes a good approach, not trying to glorify drinking or scare people into listening but rather, honestly reflecting on what drinking was doing to his life. We’ve all heard study after study declare that kids today are wrestling with issues related to mental health. Ben addressed the stigma attached to getting help and acknowledged how important it was for him in his journey to health and wholeness.
As a school chaplain for the past 30 years, I’ve heard hundreds of speakers in chapels and assemblies. Ben was one of the best we’ve had. Ben’s message was age appropriate and would work in either a chapel or assembly.
I highly recommend Ben Tuff to you for your school program.”
Christoper Loftus at The Eaglebrook School
“Ben offers a powerful and inspirational message to schools and any corporate team. His down-to-earth and personal approach allows him to connect authentically with all who connect with him. His ability to find new levels of perseverance and performance will inspire all.”
UGA Junior/Kappa Alpha:
“Ben’s story is so inspiring. Beating alcoholism and then finding something like swimming to enjoy is not only a story of determination but dedication. It was such a motivating story for all of us that there are things in life no matter how crazy (swimming insane distances) that make our time here on earth so enjoyable.
We can’t thank Ben enough for talking with us about a serious issue he struggled with and opening up to all of us about his journey.”
Rachael Lee - Frederica Academy School Counselor
“Ben was great to work with! He is personable, engaging, and inspiring. His story of recovery gives students and adults hope as well as a call to find purpose in life.”
Bob Sears, Director of student services at Athens Academy
“It was in March of 2023 when I first heard the name Ben Tuff. A parent at my school brought his name up to me. She had met him a year or two earlier and suggested that he had a story to tell that our students would find engaging and relevant. It wouldn’t be until half a year later that I would actually hear it myself. It’s a story worth hearing.
Perhaps more important than the story, however, is the person. Between the time that I first heard about Ben and the time he came to my school, I had reached out to him on a number of occasions to discuss our plan for him for the week he would spend with us. Not only was he going to speak to our students, both our high school and our middle school students, but he was also going to be present for a movie showing of his film and also for a parent coffee in the morning. While we had him on campus, he wanted to make sure that he reached as many people as he could. And reach them he did! Many students (and parents) asked him questions in the group settings but many more asked him private questions later. Not only were the questions deeply personal, but his responses were equally as personal. And there in lies the magic of Ben…..
Ben is genuine. Although big in stature and strong in personality, Ben connects with his audience, regardless of who they are and what their experiences may have been. His approach to a difficult topic is to be vulnerable and to be present. His audience notices this and therefore engages with him. It is because of this engagement that he is effective. And as someone who has been bringing speakers to schools for the last 25+ years, I can assure you that not every speaker is…. regardless of how recommended they come.”
Eliana McMahon - 10th grade
“I found Mr.Bens story quite intriguing. It takes a lot of courage to not only go through what he did, but also be so vocal about his experiences. I feel his message can be applied to everyday life, not only struggles with addiction.
As a high school student his story has enabled me to find something I'm passionate about to find balance between school and everyday life.”
Whitmarsh Tenant - 12th grade