World renowned motivational speaker, performer and artist Lesley Andrew was the keynote speaker at the Sudbury Catholic District School Board’s Professional Development Day on April 23, 2010. All S.C.D.S.B. staff including teachers and educational assistants were blown away by Andrew’s presentation entitled “Beating the Odds”. The staff gathered at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School to take part in a day dedicated to special education. Andrew, who is gifted learning disabled, spoke to the group about overcoming her learning difficulties and not only surviving but thriving in the arts. She inspired the crowd with her story of her life growing up with a learning disability and then becoming a successful singer, actor, textile artist and speaker. Her message was clear – one single teacher can make a huge difference in the life of a child. The teachers showed their appreciation for Andrew’s message with a standing ovation and it set the stage for an innovative and inspiriing inservice for staff on the subject of special education.