UB Distinguished Speakers Series: Damar Hamlin

Damar Hamlin (born March 24, 1998, in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania) is an American football safety for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at the University of Pittsburgh and was selected by the Bills in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Hamlin spent most of his rookie season as a backup before becoming a starter in 2022 following a season-ending injury to Micah Hyde.

Hamlin, a true champion both on and off the field, has left an indelible mark through his remarkable journey of resilience and philanthropy. In 2023, Hamlin launched the CPR Tour, a groundbreaking initiative through the Chasing M's Foundation. This tour has equipped over 1,200 individuals with life-saving skills, provided 170 AEDs to communities in need, and catalyzed legislative change in 12 states.

Notably, Hamlin established the Heroes Scholarship in Cincinnati, honoring the medical workers pivotal to his recovery. This scholarship not only pays tribute to their dedication but also supports the next generation of healthcare heroes.

Hamlin and the foundation extend their impact through various initiatives, including football clinics, back-to-school drives, the annual toy drive, Thanksgiving drives, and health and wellness programs. These efforts reflect Hamlin's commitment to fostering positive change in communities.

In 2024, Hamlin and the foundation plan to expand the CPR Tour to five U.S. cities and internationally to Europe, Asia and Africa. This visionary step underscores Hamlin's global perspective and the foundation's commitment to making a difference on a broader scale, bringing life-saving skills to communities around the world.

Accolades such as the 2023 PFWA Halas Award, Comeback Player of the Year, the 2023 Alan Page Community Award and the 2023 Ed Block Courage Award underscore Hamlin's impact. Since January 2, 2023, he has become a dedicated advocate for increasing awareness of CPR training and AED access.

Hamlin is driven by a profound purpose, channeling his experience into programs that encourage young people to pursue their dreams. In every sense, Hamlin is not just an athlete but a champion who inspires and uplifts those around him.