Doug "Dr. Luff" Luffborough, III

Heart Inspired Speaker, Leadership Consultant & Author

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Biography

Dr. Luff is an overcomer! As the son of a single-parent housekeeper, he was homeless in high school but went on to become a first-generation college graduate three times over despite being told by his high school guidance counselor that he was not college material. Read More >

He then was chosen as the student commencement speaker at his college graduation receiving his bachelor’s degree in business administration and human resources management from Northeastern University; a master’s degree from the Harvard University Graduate School of Education; and a Ph.D. in leadership studies and educational consulting from the University of San Diego. Dr. Luff is a professional speaker, leadership consultant, life coach, and the author of Watch Me Rise: From Streets of Despair to the Halls of the Ivy League and the Watch Me Rise Teacher Dialogue Curriculum Guide.

As an advocate for education, Dr. Luff is a former California school board president trustee and an adjunct professor in the Graduate School of Education at Point Loma Nazarene University. With over 25 years of experience, he is a seasoned speaker and trainer who has turned the hearts of thousands across the nation. From a former President of the United States to a teenage runaway, Dr. Luff's messages bring hope and inspiration to all.

Currently, Dr. Luff is an Educational Partner with Higher Level Leadership - a first-in-class speaking, consulting, and coaching company. He resides in Chula Vista, CA with his wife and their four children. Read Less ^

Speaker Videos

Corporate Video: Shake Shack Leadership Conference

Featured Nonprofit Video: City Year International Conference

College Video: Northeastern University Commencement Address Full Speech

Doug Luff - City College

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Speech Topics

Watch Me Rise: My Journey from Homeless to Harvard

The P.O.W.E.R. of Leadership

The Me I See: Maximizing Your Self-Worth & Confidence

Fatherhood is Forever: Fathering a Fatherless Generation

Testimonials

"I have such fond memories of our meeting in the White House and, of course, [Doug’s] terrific speech at Northeastern University’s commencement."

- Bill Clinton, 42nd President of the United States

"I always love hearing about real "Possibility Thinkers," and [Doug] fits that description perfectly! I applaud [his] determination and perseverance! [Doug is] setting new standards for excellence and [he is] an inspiration to all of us!"

- Dr. Robert H. Schuller, Senior Pastor, The Crystal Cathedral, Garden Grove, CA

"I will keep [Doug’s] speech here as part of my permanent files. It is an understatement to say again what a fine young man [he is]. It was an honor to have [Doug] at the Kennedy Library."

- Susan K. O'Brien, Education Department, John Fitzgerald Kennedy Library, Boston, MA

"Douglas compares most favorably to the brightest students I have taught in the Masters program at Harvard. I have no doubt that he will be an asset to your program and to the field [of education]."

- Janine Bempechat, Ed.D, Assistant Professor, Harvard University Graduate School of Education

"Doug, in my life I have three types of moments: moments of misery, moments of truth, and moments of magic. I want you to know you provided me with a moment of magic!"

- James W. Coghlin, Chief Quality Officer and President, Coghlin Electric, Worcester, MA

“Doug is a man of humanity, humor, and hunger. He spoke to a gymnasium of 1,000 people in Carlsbad, CA, at the request of my daughter. He did not touch 1,000 hearts that day; he touched one heart 1,000 times. What a memory - what a speaker!"

- Don Ogan, President, Aroma Housewares, Co., San Diego, CA

"[Doug’s] enthusiasm, determination, and heartfelt expression on [his] life views proved to be quite an inspiration for all of us who were in attendance."

- Jeffrey M. Ederer, Area Director Housing Services, University of Massachusetts at Amherst

"I would like to acknowledge [Doug’s] superb presentation. [His] comments were cogent and delivered in a very professional manner. I know of few people who could have done so well in such a highly charged setting. [He is] a credit to the College, and I consider ourselves fortunate to count [Doug] as one of our alumni."

- David P. Boyd, Dean, College of Business Administration, Northeastern University, Boston, MA

"It is not every day that we hear of someone overcoming the obstacles brought on by poverty and homelessness. I cannot thank [Doug] enough for sharing [his] incredible story will all of us."

- Richard E. Ring, Executive Director, Pine Street Inn, Boston, MA

“Doug Luffborough has provided his gifts and talents of making a difference in the lives of youths throughout the Antelope Valley for many years and has touched thousands with his motivation and spirit.”

- Lori Goodell, Past President, Antelope Valley Youth Mentoring and Education Chairperson for the Antelope Valley Human Relations Committee

“It has been wonderful working with Doug! He has the charisma and energy to work with any group. His enthusiasm and genuine positive attitude are evident in everything he does. He is sincere, versatile and works well beyond what is expected.”

- Nellie Dougherty, Outreach Coordinator/EOPS Counselor, San Diego Mesa College