
What schools are saying…
-
Ben Tracy recently spoke to our 3rd-8th grade students and their parents, delivering an engaging and impactful presentation. He does an excellent job of providing factual, thought-provoking information while ensuring his message is age-appropriate. His approach makes students aware of the dangers of the internet without instilling fear, instead fostering awareness and responsible decision-making. Ben’s presentation to parents was just as powerful. He is direct and unafraid to challenge parents to take a more active role in protecting their children online. Through real-life stories, he highlights the risks of unchecked internet access and emphasizes that not everyone online is who they claim to be. His message is a crucial reminder that digital safety is a shared responsibility. We highly recommend Ben Tracy for any school or parent group looking for an engaging, eye-opening discussion on internet safety. His insights are invaluable in today’s digital world."
- Jennifer Simmons, Principal, St. Malachy School (Creston, IA)
-
“Ben Tracy’s story is REAL and relatable! Our students were hooked from the start and appreciated Ben’s raw truth. We had two large assemblies where Ben addressed Middle School students and High School students. He was able to easily adjust his message for each group and make a positive impact. What made Ben’s visit even better was the fact that he was able to visit with some of our classes and in a smaller setting really answer some great questions. Additionally, I witnessed a POWERFUL and EMOTIONAL one-on-one as Ben helped a young man come to grips with a social media mistake he made several years ago. I can’t thank Ben enough for spending a great day at The Out-of-Door Academy in Sarasota, Florida.”
— Tim Brewer, Director of Student Activities, The Out-of-Door Academy (Sarasota, FL)
-
“Ben was able to capture the attention of our student-athletes and keep them engaged for the full 45-minute presentation. His story provided a tangible example of how social media can impact your life even years after you tweet or post. I appreciated his vulnerability and willingness to share his experiences. Ben did a tremendous job connecting with our student-athletes and they appreciated the shared collegiate athletic experience. I would highly recommend bringing Ben to campus if you are looking for someone who can connect and provide a powerful message, especially with a younger generation.”
— A’dja Jones, Director of Student Athlete Development, Missouri State University Athletics (Springfield, MO)
-
“I invited Ben Tracy to share his story with our 5-8 grade students, during the school day, and our parents, in the evening. I knew that evening when parents walked in and told me what their child had said that Ben had made an impact! Ben did a fabulous job of connecting with both the students and parents. His real life experience, although most likely very difficult to continue sharing, let us all know the dangers of what we say or post, and the negative and serious impact this can have years later. His honesty with both students and parents about difficult subjects was passionately told, mixed with the seriousness of each topic. His willingness to travel around to help others, by sharing his story, and to compassionately convince others that mistakes can also be turned around is without reproach. Over the years I have listened to many speakers on a variety of subjects. Ben is without a doubt one of the very best. His passion convinces others, regardless of age, to listen and reflect. He is genuine in every way.”
— Dr. Barbara Marchese, Principal, St. Vincent de Paul School (Omaha, NE)
-
"Every year we bring an online safety presentation to our school. The same presentation had been taking place for the last five years, so it was time for change. I invited Ben out to speak to all of the students at my school site in grades TK-8. Ben did three separate presentations for the students that were all grade level appropriate and amazingly impactful. Additionally, he came back at night to give the parent presentation, which was incredible. Ben is relatable, captivating, and delivers a crucial message with so much enthusiasm and ease that the audiences were hooked from the beginning. His passion for what he does, shakes people to the core and forces them to open their ears and eyes. He is doing amazing things in this country!"
— Elaina Stokes, Middle School Principal, St. Junipero Serra Catholic School (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
-
Ben has presented to our middle and upper school community three times now. Two of those sessions have been specifically for parents and one for our entire student body. Each session has left our students, faculty, and families with a message that stuck. Our students find Ben relatable and his story engaging, and they left his presentation feeling empowered to ask questions to navigate the digital space wisely. Our families have shared even more encouraging feedback; they're leaving the conversation equipped to support their children at home with intention and understanding. Our school has found a powerful partner in Ben!”
— Kara Vaughn, Director of Teaching and Learning, St. George’s Independent School (Collierville, TN)
-
“Ben Tracy is a captivating and relevant speaker for elementary students through high school students. He shares his own experience with social media in an age appropriate manner and students can all relate to his story in some way. The way he presents is authentic and vulnerable which helps everyone recognize ways they could improve their social media use. I highly recommend Ben as a speaker and I hope he continues to build on his program to make a meaningful and positive impact on children, teens, and even adults!”
— Elisabeth Trofimtchouk, LMFT
-
"You can tell when a speaker is saying something deeply meaningful when the side conversations cease, a hush descends upon the auditorium, and teens are looking intently at them. This was the effect of Mr. Tracy's speech upon our middle school and high school students alike. Mr. Tracy's earnestness and energy connected with our students and his information was well researched and sometimes startling. I highly recommend him as a presenter, both for the student body and the adults of your community."
— Greg Miller, Principal, Valle Catholic Jr/Sr High School (Ste. Genevieve, MO)
-
“Ben Tracy was exactly what our school needed. He spoke to our 3rd-5th graders, 6th-8th graders, and our parents that evening. Ben addressed topics that we try to discuss, but he shares his own stories and relates them to each grade band he presents to. He presents authentic ways in which everybody, children and adults, can improve their social media. We look forward to having Ben Tracy back at our school as social media is ever changing. ”
— Liz Hein, Principal, St. Joseph Catholic School (Libertyville, IL)
-
"Ben presented at our school over the course of two days. He was extremely flexible and worked closely with me to make the presentation perfect for our school community. Our students were extremely engaged with Ben's presentation. His own personal story was very interesting to our students and he provided them with some great tips for how they can remain safe if they use Social Media. Our parents were extremely thankful for providing them with information on a topic they didn't know a lot about in an effort to help keep their children safe.”
— Matt Rucinski, Principal, St. Pius X School (Loudonville, NY)
-
"Ben was the perfect speaker for our middle and high school students. His content was relatable and his method of delivery was impactful. Students were interested in the discussion around the dangers of social media and the digital age, and Ben was able to help listeners connect to the true risks of unsafe usage by immersing them in the experiences of other kids around the country. Since he left, our students have continued the conversation around online safety, and we have been able to use the event to open a dialogue with our learners and their families."
— Ana Belk, School Counselor, Concord Academy (Memphis, TN)
-
“When a parent calls me the day after Ben spoke to our high school and asks who the speaker was because her son could not stop talking about him, you know he’s got a great message. Ben’s vulnerability in sharing his own personal mistakes and lessons will absolutely help students across the country to understand the power of social media and it’s consequences if used inappropriately. Ben is timely, authentic & relatable.”
— Dr. Kristen Craft, Former Andover High School Principal (Andover, KS)
-
“Social Media is problematic for every school in America. Like most schools, we were looking for a manner to connect with our students about the power of social media. Ben Tracy was the answer to our needs. Through his personal testimony, Ben connected with our students. He immediately captures their attention and holds it throughout his entire presentation. Through his experience and his delivery, the students left our assembly on social media with a new understanding of how insecure their privacy truly is. If you need to communicate with your students and parents on social media, I highly recommend you schedule Ben Tracy to speak into their lives. Our parents loved his presentation and were engaged with Ben asking questions. You will not regret bringing Ben into your school.”
— Dr. Tim Anderson, Head of School, Providence School (Jacksonville, FL)
-
“Ben’s own story was captivating and relevant to the students in attendance as well as the teachers, parents and other adults. Ben has a powerful way of engaging and relating to the audience as well as to bring real-time situations and data into his presentations. What impressed me the most about Ben was his interest in those he was speaking to and his approachability and gift of time he invested after the presentation in speaking to all who wanted to and answering questions and giving insight. I highly recommend Ben and look forward to our paths crossing once again in the future.”
— PJ Deming, Principal, Monterey Bay Academy (La Selva Beach, CA)
-
“Ben’s ability to connect with all stakeholders (parents, faculty, high school students and middle school students) proved to be beneficial due to his knowledge of social media and real-life experience. We highly recommend anyone working with teenagers to consider allowing Ben to share his story.”
— Sondra Morris, Principal, St. Benedict at Auburndale High School (Cordova, TN)
-
“Mr. Tracy’s story is an attention-grabbing, real-life example of the power of words, particularly in today’s context of social media and public scrutiny. It served as a wake-up call to our students that had many of them scrambling–in a positive way–to make practical changes. Mr. Tracy’s open and honest sharing also served as a testimony to the value of authenticity, reflection, repentance, learning from one’s mistakes, and being willing to turn around and teach others.”
— Matt Cunningham, Bible Teacher & Chapel Coordinator, Aurora Christian School (Aurora, IL)
-
“Ben Tracy gives a very personal account on how the misuse of social media can come back to haunt students in their careers, college applications, scholarships, etc. After his presentation, we had several students show concern regarding their social media content as well as inquiring about how to delete or better secure their accounts. Our school district has discussed making this a regular presentation as a way to promote more responsible social media use.”
— Carrie Griffith, Principal, Wethersfield Junior-Senior High School (Kewanee, IL)
-
"At Sacred Heart School in West Des Moines, we were privileged to welcome Ben Tracy to speak with our students and parents about digital citizenship, internet safety, and the impact of social media. His presentation was engaging, insightful, and incredibly relevant to the challenges young people face in today's digital world. Ben has a unique ability to connect with both students and parents, delivering a message that was not only informative but also empowering. He provided practical strategies for navigating online spaces responsibly, protecting personal information, and fostering a positive digital footprint. The real-life stories were both personal and impactful. This made the session eye-opening and relevant for all. I received many positive comments from both parents and students. We are grateful for the time and expertise Ben shared with our school community. His presentation has sparked meaningful conversations and reinforced our commitment to guiding students in making safe and ethical choices online. I highly recommend Ben Tracy to any school looking to educate and equip their students and families with the tools needed to thrive in the digital age."
- Scott Ehlinger, Principal, Sacred Heart School (West Des Moines, IA)
-
“When a parent calls me the day after Ben spoke to our high school and asks who the speaker was because her son could not stop talking about him, you know he’s got a great message. Ben’s vulnerability in sharing his own personal mistakes and lessons will absolutely help students across the country to understand the power of social media and it’s consequences if used inappropriately. Ben is timely, authentic & relatable.”
— Dr. Kristen Craft, Former Andover High School Principal (Andover, KS), 2021 Kansas High School Principal of the Year
-
“Cardinal Stritch University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics invited Ben Tracy to speak to all our student-athletes and coaches. As a former college student-athlete himself, Mr. Tracy immediately captured the attention of our student-athletes. His presentation was very appropriate and very timely. He used his contemporary experiences within the social media culture and related these experiences directly to our student-athletes. Highlighting some actual social media postings from our student-athletes, the group responded with an unnerving calm. Then, he skillfully moved the conversation to how these current posting could have a negative impact on future employment of our student-athletes. Additionally, he engaged our group with decision-making strategies on how to be better leader, a better teammate, a better friend. Following his presentation, we surveyed our student-athletes, with overwhelming affirmation; they agreed Mr. Tracy’s presentation had a significant impact on how they present themselves on social media platform and how to be a better student-athlete.”
— Dr. Tim Val Alstine, Associate Vice-President & Director of Athletics, Cardinal Stritch University (Milwaukee, WI)
-
“Ben grabbed our students attention from the get go. He spoke to our whole school, grades 6-12 and did an excellent job keeping all ages engaged. His personal story has the power of a first hand experience which resonates more with students than anything we can say to them as adults about the pitfalls of social media. Ben also makes a point of showcasing the positive ways to use social media. Using his own story, Ben has created a thoughtful, sensitive and timely presentation. Our parents also had the opportunity to hear Ben’s presentation and it was very well received. If you can bring him to your school, do it!”
— Trish Cox, Dean of Students, The MacDuffie School (Granby, MA)
-
“When I made the decision to bring Ben Tracy to our campus to talk to our student athletes about social media, I did not realize how much Ben would change our student athletes’ knowledge about social media. His presentation is very heartfelt, engaging and very effective to any Students or Students Athletes across our nation. His presentation connects with both men and women at any grade level. Ben’s presentation interacts with the audience and has great examples from the group he is talking with. I would highly encourage you to book Ben as soon as you can. You and your group will not be disappointed with his presentation.”
— Darren Pannier, Athletic Director, State Fair Community College (Sedalia, MO)
-
“Ben Tracy gives a very personal account on how the misuse of social media can come back to haunt students in their careers, college applications, scholarships, etc. After his presentation, we had several students show concern regarding their social media content as well as inquiring about how to delete or better secure their accounts. Our school district has discussed making this a regular presentation as a way to promote more responsible social media use.”
— Carrie Griffith, Principal, Wethersfield Junior-Senior High School (Kewanee, IL)
-
“Ben Tracy did an amazing job at presenting a real-world issue that students may be aware of but do not take seriously. From the start, he is able to catch the students’ attention by showing them how easy it is to see what they put on social media. By sharing his own personal story of what happened to him when he misused social media at a young age, the students were able to better understand that their actions on social media can have lasting effects on their lives. On multiple occasions, I have heard that Ben’s talk was one of the most impactful talks that we have hosted at the school. Parents, teachers, and students all agree that it was important for everyone to hear what Ben had to say.”
— Dang Nguyen, Dean of Curriculum, Mary Star of the Sea High School (San Pedro, CA)
-
“Our school community participated in a virtual presentation entitled Navigating Life In the Digital Age by Ben Tracy in March 2021. This presentation exceeded our expectations. Specifically, Ben understood that his audience included both adults and children and tailored his discussion to meet their needs. He shared timely information in a methodical manner that was easy to understand. His common-sense tips for both children and adults were very valuable. I would highly recommend this presentation for both general and special education populations.”
— Dr. Robin Johnstone, Head of School, Meredith-Dunn School (Louisville, KY)
-
“Our admin team appreciated his research in finding social media posts from our own students. Students can relate to Ben and we appreciated his direct, open, and honest communication during the presentation.”
— Dr. Ashly McGinnis, Principal, Lafayette High School (St. Joseph, MO)
-
“Ben Tracy came to our campus and gave our school quite the education in social media. Mr. Tracy, through his great story telling, told our students a powerful message on the dangers of the internet. His own personal story left our kids wondering “what happens if that was me effect”! Mr. Tracy not only showed us his story but he was able to do extensive research into the problems that our own school was going through by finding numerous situations that are occurring in our school. Mr. Tracy’s story and message is a must for all students and adults to hear!”
— Walter Townes, Former Dean of Students, Knox School (St. James, NY)
-
“Ben Tracy’s message is meaningful and timely. If you are serious about getting your students to understand the dangers, pitfalls and power of the current social media platforms, Ben’s presentations are relevant and attention grabbing for all ages. Ben’s story is compelling and he not only defines the issues but he offers solutions which help reform students use of social media. It is encouraging to know individuals like Ben Tracy have taken on this challenge while offering helpful resources to address the issues at hand. I would highly recommend including Ben Tracy in your plans to support a positive student culture.”
— David Welling, Head of School, Trinity Christian Academy (Jacksonville, FL)