"McFarland USA" runner Thomas Valles headlines Hispanic Heritage Month event

Dream big-that's the motto of USI's Hispanic Heritage Month keynote speaker Thomas Valles, a member of the state champion McFarland High School cross country team featured in the 2015 Disney film McFarland USA. Through a conversation moderated by Paola Marizan '15, Valles will discuss his historic and inspiring running career, the challenges he faced growing up in a small Latino farming town in the 1980s and what it was like to see his life portrayed on the big screen.

After graduating from McFarland High School in 1988, Valles continued his running career at College of the Sequoias and California State University Bakersfield. He remains involved with the sport through coaching. A former member of the United States Coast Guard, Valles has been employed by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for nearly two decades. He and his wife, Martha, have three children.

"I have always been a competitor, whether it be my own personal goals or helping young athletes achieve theirs," says Valles. "From the front of the pack to the back end, we all have limits. Never let someone hold you back from pushing beyond what others think is impossible. Whether it's a long stride or small steps-the goal is to finish."

Prior to the keynote conversation with Valles, guests can enjoy a Latin style dance performed by Daisy Valdez '21, a traditional dance by USI's newly formed Panamanian Association and a stroll performance by USI's first Latina sorority, Gamma Phi Omega International Sorority, Inc.

This free event, sponsored by USI's Multicultural Center, will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 2 in Carter Hall located in University Center West. All are welcome, and guests will have a chance to submit questions for Valles.