2010 Keynote Speaker

Blake Mycoskie
Founder and Chief Shoe Giver of TOMS Shoes, Inc.

Tuesday, April 13, 2010
7 p.m., KU Ballroom

Blake Mycoskie is the Founder and Chief Shoe Giver of TOMS Shoes, Inc. TOMS' simple promise to give a pair of new shoes to children in need around the world with every pair sold is revolutionizing the way consumers shop. The One for One business model has encouraged conscientious consumers to purchase and give more than 140,000 pairs of new shoes to children in need in just 3 years. By the end of 2009, TOMS will give an additional 500,000 pairs of new shoes to children in need all around the world, including at home in the US. The One for One business model is redefining social entrepreneurship for a new generation.

Can the purchasing power of individuals be used to foster the greater good?  Can an entrepreneur succeed financially and make the world a better place?  The amazing success of TOMS Shoes proves that the answer to both of these questions is a resounding "Yes!"

Embodying the entrepreneurial spirit of a new generation, Mycoskie has created five businesses since college. In the Bill Gates Time magazine article, "How to Fix Capitalism," TOMS is cited and Mycoskie caught the attention of AT&T, who has featured him in a major national ad campaign for the last several months.  Among many engagements, Blake has spoken at the TED Conference, the Aspen Ideas Festival, and the Clinton Global Initiative University.

For more information on TOMS Shoes visit www.TOMSshoes.com.