Born and raised in the Chicago suburbs, Curtiz’s life is a powerful testament to resilience. One of six children raised by a single mother, then adopted by his grandmother at age 13, and later supported by a friend’s family during his senior year, Curtiz’s early experiences shaped the foundation for his passion: helping others rise above adversity.

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After earning a football scholarship to Iowa State University, Curtiz answered a higher call and enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving honorably as an Infantryman at Fort Hood, Texas. Today, he continues to lead by example in Killeen, TX, where he is raising two sons and shaping young minds as a high school social studies teacher.

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Curtiz’s educational journey, marked by determination and grit, culminated in a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M University-Central Texas in 2020, following 13 years of unwavering commitment. Outside the classroom, he coaches youth sports, mentors students, and brings hope to incarcerated individuals through ministry and volunteer work.

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Curtiz’s talks are more than motivational—they’re transformational. With raw authenticity and an engaging presence, he delivers powerful keynotes on perseverance, leadership, identity, and the power of purpose. His story and his voice move audiences from surviving to thriving. If you're looking for a speaker who doesn't just inspire but equips and empowers, Curtiz Mathis is your next keynote.