Pitt Chancellor to Host Reception in Recognition of Trustee William E. Strickland's New Publication, "Make the Impossible Possible"

PITTSBURGH-University of Pittsburgh Chancellor Mark A. Nordenberg will host a by-invitation-only reception to celebrate the publication of a new book by William E. Strickland, Pitt trustee and CEO of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation. It will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. Jan. 11, in Pitt's J.W. Connolly Ballroom, Alumni Hall, 4227 Fifth Ave., Oakland. Strickland is scheduled to make remarks at 4 p.m.

Strickland's book, "Make the Impossible Possible: One Man's Crusade to Inspire Others to Dream Bigger and Achieve the Extraordinary" (Currency, 2007), focuses on his belief that each of us has the potential for remarkable achievement, and that we can accomplish the impossible in our lives.

Over the past 30 years, Strickland has been transforming the lives of thousands of people. As president and CEO of Manchester Bidwell and its subsidiaries, Manchester Craftsmen's Guild and Bidwell Training Center, he oversees a major jobs training center and community arts program. Working with corporations, community leaders, and schools, he and his staff strive to provide disadvantaged children and adults with the tools they need to envision and build a brighter future.

Strickland, who serves on Pitt's board of trustees, graduated cum laude from Pitt in 1970 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. He serves as a consultant, grant evaluator, and mentor in the fields of arts and arts education, community development, and workforce development training.

Strickland has received numerous awards, including being named a Pitt Distinguished Alumni Fellow and being inducted into the University's inaugural Legacy Laureate class. He also is a recipient of a MacArthur 'genius award' and was selected the 2007 Pittsburgher of the Year by "Pittsburgh Magazine".

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