J Leman graduated from Champaign Central High School in 2003 and certainly left his mark on the athletic programs at CHS, as he was an outstanding three-sport letter winner. J continued his football career at the University of Illinois where he also experienced tremendous success in leading the Fighting Illini to a Rose Bowl berth in his senior season. J did not forget where he came from. He did not hesitate when I asked him to speak at our Academic Letter Awards Night and to our entire incoming freshmen class at orientation. J’s message and delivery are very powerful. The energy he brings when he speaks is contagious and makes a huge impact on so many of the kids and adults in the audience. Most recently J spoke at the Champaign High School C-Club Hall of Fame Dinner during his induction. Because J was being inducted into the hall of fame, several elementary and middle school aged students attended the ceremony just to see and meet J. J captivated the entire audience, which ranged in age from 10-90. My son attended the dinner that night and has not stopped talking about J’s presentation ever since.
John R. Woods, Assistant Principal for Programs and Facilities
Central High School, Champaign, IL
It is my pleasure to recommend J Leman to you as a public speaker. J has spoken at several events that I have been a part of, and each time I have thoroughly enjoyed the quality his messages. J is thoughtful, articulate, highly energetic and engaging. But he is also informed and professional, speaks on a variety of topics, and obviously takes the opportunities to share publicly seriously. I recently spoke to a pastor who had invited J to be one of several speakers at a men’s retreat. After their event, this pastor told me that J was “by far” their best speaker. I can imagine. I am sure that you too will have an excellent response, should you choose to have J speak at your event.
Kevin Kiefer, Senior Pastor
Thrive Vineyard Church
J Leman is one of the most impactful Christian speakers that I have ever heard. He can relate to people of all ages. Any adult or student can tell that J is the real deal because he lives his faith out loud. He is funny, engaging, and Spirit lead.
Marcellus Casey, Area Director
Champaign-Urbana FCA
It’s with great excitement and joy that I write on behalf of J Leman, to recommend him for any speaking engagement for which he may be considered. J agreed to speak to approximately 200 elementary aged boys and girls, plus their families, at our Upward Year End Celebration in March 2010. We couldn’t have been happier with J. From start to finish our experience was completely positive. J was a joy to converse with as we worked together to set up this event. His heart for Christ and for sharing his faith is genuine, which was evident in every aspect of our communication leading up to the event and during it. J was a huge hit with both the kids and the adults. His presentation was down to earth, energetic, inspiring, and engaging. He was able to both encourage and challenge the boys and girls regarding faith, hard work, perseverance, and integrity. We won’t hesitate to contact him again for possible future events.
Jim McClarey
Savoy United Methodist Church, For Upward – Champaign County