Dewey Bozella

Dewey Bozella's life has been a testament to resilience and determination. A former professional boxer, Bozella was incarcerated for a murder he did not commit, spending 26 years of his life behind bars before his conviction was finally overturned in 2009. Despite the odds stacked against him, he reentered the ring and won his professional boxing debut in 2011 at the remarkable age of 52. This triumphant comeback was recognized with the Arthur Ashe Courage Award in the same year.

In addition to his impressive accomplishments in the boxing ring, Bozella has made significant contributions to his community in Fishkill, New York. He channels his experiences and lessons learned through a challenging life into educating the youth. Working with younger generations at a local gym, he teaches them about boxing and, more importantly, the dangers of gang involvement. His hands-on guidance and mentorship provide invaluable life lessons and alternatives to potentially dangerous paths.

A testament to his indomitable spirit, Bozella's memoir, "Stand Tall: Fighting For My Life, Inside and Outside the Ring," was published in 2016. The book serves as a tangible extension of his life-story, reflecting the determination and courage that has marked his journey. His ability to articulate his experiences in both writing and speech underlines his capacity as a compelling communicator and a role model for many.