2025 Keynote Speaker:
US Army, 1stLT Duncan Kirkwood, MPA
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Director of the Center for Resiliency at Villa Maria College
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Army National Guard Master Resilience Trainer
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Author of “Rerouting: Resilience Tools and Tactics”

Duncan Kirkwood is a highly regarded global resilience speaker, author, and educator dedicated to inspiring individuals and communities worldwide. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, Duncan attended Alabama State University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Communications before completing his Master’s degree in Public Administration. While in his last year of undergrad, Duncan enlisted in the Alabama Army National Guard and went on to become a Master Resilience Trainer, where he discovered his passion for helping others build resilience and overcome adversity. This experience inspired him to pursue motivational speaking and personal development.
Duncan holds an Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) certificate, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to provide support and guidance to those in crisis. He is the author of “Rerouting: Resilience Tools and Tactics,” a book that provides practical guidance and tools for building resilience and navigating life’s challenges. The book has been praised for its practical advice and inspirational message and has helped thousands of people worldwide build resilience and achieve their goals.
Duncan is the recipient of the National Policy Innovators in Education “Game Changers Award” for his exceptional work in education and personal development. In addition to his speaking and writing endeavors, he serves as the Director of the Center for Resiliency at Villa Maria College. He continues to help individuals and communities build resilience and achieve their goals.