Michael Gershe is a survivor of a drunk driving crash that killed his mother and nearly himself
when he was 8 weeks old. Despite breaking almost all his bones in the crash, he went on to
become a collegiate swimmer, comedian, speaker, author, college educator and photographer.
He attended Ashland University on a swimming scholarship where he earned a degree in
Communications. Michael earned his Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from
the University of Akron. He has been at Kent State University for 21 years and is the Senior
Advisor II for the College of Aeronautics and Engineering.
With over 25 years’ experience on stage as a comedian and speaker, Michael has presented his
programs at schools, colleges, military bases and a TedxTalk. He uses humor, audience
participation and his story for an educational and inspirational message. His topics include
impaired driving prevention, alcohol abuse, diversity, student-athlete success and mental
health/grief.
In 2015 he founded The Magic of Life Foundation, a non-profit organization, that helps his
mission in eliminating impaired driving making communities safer and empowering people to
make better choices in life. The foundation has a partnership with the Stow Municipal Court and
MADD where he presents his program as part of their diversion programs. The organization’s
annual fundraiser honors local law enforcement for their DUI efforts.
In 2019, he published his memoir, “The Magic of Life: A Son’s Story After Tragedy, Grief and a
Speedo.” One Amazon reader said, “This book will inspire any reader to be a better person! This
is one of the best books I have read in a long time!” The book can be bought on Amazon or
Barnes and Noble.
For more information about Michael and The Magic of Life Foundation, please go to
www.themagicoflife.org.