UB Distinguished Speakers Series – Damar Hamlin

Damar Hamlin is an American football safety for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League. He played college football at the University of Pittsburgh and was selected by the Bills in the 2021 NFL Draft. Hamlin became a starter in 2022 following a season-ending injury to Micah Hyde.

Hamlin has left an indelible mark through his remarkable journey of resilience and philanthropy. In 2023, Hamlin launched the CPR Tour 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; Hamlin and the Foundation plan to expand this effort internationally.

Notably, Hamlin established the Heroes Scholarship in Cincinnati, honoring the medical workers pivotal to his recovery, and supporting 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.

Accolades such as the PFWA Halas Award, Comeback Player of the Year, the Alan Page Community Award and the Ed Block Courage Award underscore Hamlin’s impact.