Blind Descent: Overcoming Adversity with Courage and Clarity

Renowned keynote speaker, bestselling author, and extreme adventurer Brian Dickinson (NU, BS '01) shares the gripping story of his solo summit of Mount Everest—where he went snow-blind in the Death Zone and was forced to descend alone. Drawing on this extraordinary survival feat and his background as a U.S. Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer, Brian delivers unforgettable lessons on leadership, resilience, and decision-making under pressure. His edge-of-your-seat presentation inspires audiences to push beyond limits, overcome adversity, and develop the mental toughness to lead with clarity when the path ahead is uncertain.