200 STUDENT FOCUS GROUP RAVES
ABOUT "TITAN OF LIFE" AUTOBIOGRAPHY
OF MELVIN L BURKS
Indianapolis, IN - April 5, 2025

In an unprecedented focus group spanning over 200 students from universities across the United States, Melvin L. Burks' autobiography "Titan of Life" has struck a powerful chord with the next generation of leaders. The students, representing institutions from UNC Chapel Hill to San Diego State University, shared their reflections on how Burks' journey from childhood to becoming a leader in mental and behavioral health resonates with their own leadership aspirations.

"I believe this story may help inform my leadership journey because it displays strong relationships that are needed to build character and define the leader that you become. A leader is one who protects and guides people in hardships and shows them ways they can inspire others," said LK, a junior at Boston University.

The autobiography, which details Burks' decision to prioritize education and community service over a professional football career, has particularly impacted students with similar backgrounds.

"I believe that this is a story that may help inform my leadership journey because I come from a similar experience when it comes to my love and appreciation for my mother," explained MG, a senior from San Diego State University. "Coming from a low-income family with a single mother, I have seen her suffer many times; she has sacrificed herself many times for the sake of us, my siblings and me."

Many students connected deeply with Burks' reflections on his mother's influence and sacrifices, seeing parallels to their own upbringing.

"My mom is my pillar, my supporter, and my motivator. I completely agree with Melvin L. because having your mom as your backbone is not a privilege many people have," shared SP, a psychology major from UCLA.

The book's emphasis on resilience and standing strong against negativity also resonated strongly with the focus group.
"Yes, this story resonates deeply with my leadership journey. It highlights the importance of resilience, empathy, and leading with purpose, which are values I strive to embody," said PC, a student at The Ohio State University.

One particular anecdote about Burks' mother asking if he would "fight everyone in the world" who spoke negatively about them struck a chord with several students.

"This touched me because often I can fall into believing I am what others say I am, when in reality that's not who I really am," reflected BL from Georgetown University. "People can label me as things that can negatively impact the way I think of myself, but it is important to remember that I am who I know I am in my heart."

Honored with Prestigious Circle of Corydon Award
What many students found most inspiring was Burks' remarkable career spanning more than four decades at Hamilton Center, Inc., where he rose to become President and CEO in 2021, previously serving as CEO since 2012. His dedication to transforming mental health services in Central and West Indiana exemplifies his commitment to community welfare and service.

In July 2023, Burks received the prestigious Circle of Corydon Award, one of Indiana's highest civilian honors. The award, established by the Indiana General Assembly and authorized by the Governor, recognizes Hoosiers who have made exceptional contributions to the betterment of Indiana and its people. Named after Corydon, Indiana's first state capital, the award symbolizes the foundation of leadership upon which the state was built.

"I took a lot from him talking about fighting for others, and how leaders protect and sacrifice for others," noted RH, a criminal justice major at UNC Charlotte.

The Circle of Corydon recognition came during a celebration honoring Burks' five decades of mentoring young people in the Wabash Valley. That same day, Terre Haute Mayor proclaimed July 29 as "Melvin L. Burks Day," and a scholarship was established in his name for the Terre Haute Girls & Boys Club, further cementing his legacy of service.

"Yes, it shows me that it's important to sacrifice for some things that are important and mean a lot," said DV from Villanova University.

Pioneering Mental Health Awareness
At a time when student mental health concerns are at record levels, many students appreciated Burks' pioneering approach to mental health education and advocacy. His innovative Titan of Life leadership incubator programs, which offer flexible remote learning experiences at various commitment levels, were of particular interest to the focus group participants.

"This story is one that will help inform my leadership journey because life is a journey to explore new things and making smart decisions is very important," stated ZX from Georgia Tech. "Melvin dived into the concept of Sacrifice where his mom sacrificed her life for her kids and he then decided to sacrifice his life for others who are very important to him."

Exclusive Digital Release
Voice Up Publishing announced that "Titan of Life" is currently available exclusively through the website titanoflife.com. The site features Burks' story told in his own words, providing an authentic first-person account of his journey from a child in poverty to a respected leader in behavioral health.

"The Titan of Life symbolizes fortitude, tenacity, and a commitment to fostering and conserving life—elements that are crucial to my goals," summarized SL, a pre-med student at Harvard University. "It also exemplifies leadership qualities like influence, empathy, and the capacity to lead people through life-changing experiences."

The website not only shares Burks' personal narrative but also details his impressive educational background, including his three degrees from Indiana State University—a bachelor's in Afro-American studies with minors in criminology and sociology, followed by two master's degrees in agency counseling/criminology and public administration. This educational foundation supported his parallel commitments to youth development through athletics (coaching football since 1987 and basketball since 2005) and behavioral health leadership.

Just months after receiving the Circle of Corydon Award, Burks was further honored in September 2024 when Indiana State University named him one of three recipients of their Distinguished Alumni Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to his career and community.

Leadership Incubator Series Launching Summer 2025
Building on the tremendous response to the autobiography, Voice Up Publishing has announced the official launch of the Titan of Life Leadership Incubator Series beginning Summer 2025. This innovative program will offer three flexible pathways for leadership development, all inspired by Burks' protective leadership model and commitment to mental health advocacy.

The incubators include a 1-Week Immersion focusing on mental health vocabulary and leadership fundamentals, a 2-Week Development exploring authentic leadership practices and emotional intelligence, and a comprehensive 4-Week Transformation program with personalized mentorship and collaborative community projects aimed at reducing mental health stigma.

What makes these programs unique is their 100% remote format, designed to accommodate diverse schedules and learning preferences. This accessibility ensures that working professionals, busy parents, active students, and others can participate regardless of scheduling constraints.

The titanoflife.com website is now accepting applications for the inaugural cohorts, with participants from all backgrounds—including educators, healthcare professionals, community leaders, coaches, parents, and students—invited to join this groundbreaking initiative where personal growth aligns with social impact.

Through these flexible learning experiences, participants will develop authentic leadership skills, master mental health vocabulary appropriate to their context, create stigma-reducing narratives, build connections with purpose-driven peers, and design practical applications for mental health awareness in their own communities.

As one student from the focus group concluded, "Hearing about how others have succeeded in overcoming challenges or achieving their goals can be highly motivating. Incorporating the lessons learned from other people's leadership stories into your own journey can help you grow as a more effective, empathetic, and impactful leader."

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Learn more at https://www.titanoflife.com/

Send all inquiries to info@titanoflife.com

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