Inspirational Story Of The George Washington University Student — Born Paralyzed On His Right Side — And “The Mom” Behind His Success; Grand Prize Winner Will Spend A Day With Natalie Gulbis
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – (October 23, 2008) – RSM McGladrey, the nation’s 5th largest accounting, tax and business consulting firm, along with LPGA star and Team McGladrey member Natalie Gulbis, today announced that Taylor Anderson, a junior at The George Washington University, is the grand prize winner of the “Who’s Behind Your Success?” nationwide essay contest.
Taylor’s winning essay told the story of overcoming adversity — born paralyzed on his right side, doctors never expected him to be able to walk or talk. He thanks his mom who has devoted a lifetime to encouraging him that anything is possible. Taylor and his parents will now have an opportunity to spend an entire day later this year with Natalie Gulbis, including a morning workout, nine holes of golf and dinner.
The “Who’s Behind Your Success?” contest, which received thousands of submissions, was open to anyone over age 18, and invited participants to submit essays of 200 words or less, highlighting the most influential and/or inspirational individual behind the success in their life. The contest was inspired in part by Gulbis’ own personal essay about her father, who she calls the most influential person behind her success, and which is featured on the contest home page.
“Taylor’s story is truly an indication that anything is possible, and it is refreshing to see how such a strong bond between a mother and her son has led an amazing young man to overcome adversity and accomplish his dreams,” said Mark Audino, RSM McGladrey Chief Marketing Officer. “At RSM McGladrey we recognize the importance of teamwork in dealing with our clients everyday, which is why the Natalie contest was a great way for us to help promote the inspirational stories behind everyday people who have overcome the odds to achieve success.”
Below is Taylor’s winning essay followed by a link to his 60-second video submission:
Taylor Anderson: Hometown: Concord, MA
Born paralyzed on my right side, I am an unlikely golfer but all my life Mom encouraged me to reach for my goals. Doctors weren’t encouraging but my Mom always believed. She devoted countless hours to medical appointments and therapies so I could participate in the “normal” world. When I expressed my interest in golfing with my Dad, she researched instructors until she found one willing to take on a handicapped student. My senior year of high school I began a golf team at my school and was elected the first Captain. She filled my life with unconditional support, with possibilities not limitations. Her unconditional love and support have allowed me to pursue my interests with confidence and enthusiasm. As a junior at the George Washington University I realize the impact that level of support has had on my life, how different it might have been without her unwavering belief in all I could do rather than what I couldn’t. I have tried karate, fencing and riding as well as golf. I will always love the game and time with my Dad, but there’s no doubt that the person behind my success is my Mom.
Taylor’s 60-second video about his story can be viewed at (www.rsmmcgladrey.com/nataliecontest).
“For Taylor to overcome all the obstacles that he is up against on a daily basis, and maintain a positive outlook on life, he is truly an inspiration to us all, and I can’t wait to spend the day with Taylor and his parents in my hometown,” Gulbis said.
In addition to the grand prize, Taylor and all the finalists will receive a TaylorMade Driver, adidas golf shoes, a Canon Six PowerShot digital camera and a SkyCaddie SG-5 rangefinder.
About RSM McGladrey
RSM McGladrey Inc. is a leading professional services firm providing accounting, tax and business consulting. RSM McGladrey operates in an alternative practice structure with McGladrey & Pullen LLP, a partner-owned CPA firm that delivers audit and attest services. Through separate and independent legal entities, they work together to serve clients’ business needs. Together, the companies rank as the fifth largest U.S. provider of accounting, tax and business consulting services (source: Accounting Today), with 8,000 professionals and associates in nearly 100 offices. RSM McGladrey Inc. and McGladrey & Pullen LLP are member firms of RSM International, an affiliation of independent accounting and consulting firms. RSM McGladrey is the official accounting, tax and business consulting firm of The PGA of America.
Contact:
Betsy Weinberger betsy.weinberger@rsmi.com
RSM McGladrey P: 980-233-4711
Ari Edelman aedelman@mastrocomm.com
Mastro Communications P: 732.469.5700
