Nancy Kerrigan Speaker Biography
Two-Time Olympic Medalist & US National Figure Skating Champion and Inspiring Storyteller
Nancy Kerrigan, Olympic figure skating champion and motivational keynote speaker, has been one of America’s most recognizable sports icons for over 25 years. Her journey to international acclaim began with a breakthrough performance at the 1991 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, where she placed third. This success earned her a spot at the 1991 World Championships, where she won bronze in an American podium sweep. The following year, she captured the bronze medal at the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics and the silver medal at the 1992 World Championships. In 1993, Nancy Kerrigan became the United States Ladies Champion and followed with a historic silver medal at the 1994 Lillehammer Winter Olympics. Known for her innovative style, she collaborated with designer Vera Wang to create some of the sport’s most memorable skating costumes, blending athletic excellence with artistic elegance in a way that transformed the look of competitive figure skating.
Beyond the Rink
While celebrated for her Olympic triumphs, Nancy Kerrigan built an equally impressive career off the ice. She appeared in popular television series and films such as Boy Meets World, Blades of Glory, Saturday Night Live, Skating with Celebrities, and Fresh Off the Boat. As a commentator, she contributed to major networks including NBC Sports, Fox Sports, Entertainment Tonight, and Inside Edition. She co-created the touring spectacle Halloween on Ice, showcasing her commitment to bringing figure skating to wider audiences. As a sought-after spokesperson, she represented brands like Disney, Revlon, Reebok, Seiko, Campbell’s Soup, and Old Navy. Nancy Kerrigan is also the author of Artistry on Ice, sharing insights into her sport’s technical and creative dimensions. Additionally, she has been a tireless advocate for infertility awareness, using her platform to encourage open conversations about personal and family challenges.
Philanthropy and Recognition
Nancy Kerrigan’s influence extends far beyond performance and celebrity. She founded the Nancy Kerrigan Foundation to support the visually impaired, honoring her legally blind mother. Through this initiative, she has raised substantial funds for research, programs, and support networks. Her impact has been recognized with induction into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame, as well as honors like Mother’s Day Foundation’s Mother of the Year, the New England Sports Hall of Fame, and the Fight for Sight Lifetime Achievement Award. Furthermore, Nancy Kerrigan has become a highly respected public speaker, inspiring audiences worldwide with stories of perseverance, artistry, and resilience. As an Olympic figure skating champion and motivational keynote speaker, she connects athletic discipline with life lessons that resonate across industries, motivating both corporate and community audiences to strive for excellence.
Continuing Influence and Creative Projects
In recent years, Nancy Kerrigan has balanced professional commitments with raising her three children. She has choreographed celebrated skating productions, including Halloween on Ice, SkateNiagara, and the Bryant Park Holiday Show. She competed in Season 24 of Dancing With the Stars, delighting audiences with her artistry and determination. Nancy Kerrigan is also an executive producer for the documentary Why Don’t You Lose 5 lbs, addressing eating disorders in sports, and the feature film Fire and Ice, produced by Picturestart. She has served on the Advisory Board for the Aurora Games, promoting women’s achievements in sports and entertainment. Corporate collaborations include projects with Revise Energy, iFIT training videos, and a national LinkedIn B2B marketing campaign. Her children’s book Stronger Than She Thinks debuted in 2023, with a full series planned for release in 2026—further cementing her role as an inspiring voice for future generations.
Nancy Kerrigan Speaking Topics
Grace Under Pressure: My Journey from the Ice to the World Stage
From a young skater in Massachusetts to an Olympic medalist on the world stage, Nancy Kerrigan’s story is one of focus, discipline, and perseverance. In this inspiring talk, she shares the triumphs and trials of her skating career, including the challenges she faced in the public eye. Audiences walk away with powerful lessons on performing at their best under pressure, staying grounded amid success, and finding inner strength during life’s most difficult moments.
The Champion’s Mindset: Turning Setbacks into Comebacks
Nancy knows firsthand that the road to success is rarely smooth. Through personal stories of resilience—from training injuries to public adversity—she reveals how she transformed obstacles into opportunities for growth. This keynote offers actionable strategies for cultivating mental toughness, staying focused on goals, and embracing change with confidence. Her message resonates with anyone looking to overcome challenges and bounce back stronger than before.
Breaking the Ice: Women, Ambition, and Winning in Any Arena
As one of the most celebrated female athletes in the world, Nancy Kerrigan has faced the unique challenges and opportunities that come with breaking barriers. In this empowering program, she shares insights on leadership, determination, and self-advocacy for women in sports, business, and beyond. With authenticity and humor, Nancy inspires audiences to pursue their ambitions fearlessly and create pathways for others to follow.
Beyond the Spotlight: Life, Family, and Finding Balance
While Nancy’s Olympic performances are unforgettable, her life after the spotlight has been equally rich with lessons. In this heartfelt talk, she opens up about balancing career aspirations with motherhood, overcoming personal hardships, and redefining success on her own terms. Audiences are encouraged to reflect on their own priorities and discover how to create a fulfilling, meaningful life outside of professional achievements.
Nancy Kerrigan Books




