From the streets of India, to the Oscars, and now to Utah Valley University — Saroo Brierley’s life story was made famous in the Oscar-nominated movie “Lion”, based on his book “A Long Way Home.”  It chronicles his journey as a lost 5-year-old who fell asleep, and woke up thousands of miles from his village. Tenacity, love, and a need to resolve his past led him home again.

 

As the keynote speaker for UVU’s Homecoming Week, Brierley will share his life experiences.

 

“Saroo was separated from his family at a very young age, and through his perseverance was able to reunite with his biological family. His story has inspired people worldwide,” said Mackenzie Prows, vice president of the UVU Student Association. “UVU Homecoming Week is about coming home to reunite with our UVU families.”

 

Brierley’s journey took him to an orphanage, where he was eventually adopted by an Australian couple. He grew up, went to college, and had everything he needed — but never forgot about his mother. He spent his life searching for his family, and never gave up on the fact that he knew they were out there.

 

“Saroo is a great example to Wolverines to be courageous in their endeavors, despite the odds that may be stacked against them. He embodies what it means to be a Wolverine. We have grit, we are determined, and we don’t give up — that’s what his story is about,” said Marc Reynolds, president of the UVU Student Association.

 

Homecoming week is Sept. 24-28. Brierley will speak on Thursday Sept. 27, noon – 1 p.m. in the Grande Ballroom. All are welcome to attend.

 

For a full list of Homecoming 2018 festivities, go to the link below:

https://www.uvualumni.org/s/1045/index.aspx?sid=1045&gid=1&pgid=1130

 

 

University Marketing &Communications

 

Scott Trotter

801-863-6807 | [email protected]

Barb Smith

801-863-5274 | [email protected]

 

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About Utah Valley University

 

At 37,282 students and growing, Utah Valley University is the largest public university in the state of Utah, and one of a few in the nation offering a dual-mission model that combines the rigor and richness of a first-rate teaching university with the openness and vocational programs of a community college. UVU’s unique model, which focuses on student success, engaged learning, rigorous academic programs, and faculty-mentored research, is transforming higher education by making it more affordable and accessible to students of all backgrounds.