Frank Savage, front left, and Bill Cosby, front center, with York College students. Photo courtesy York College
World renowned comedian Bill Cosby and financier Frank Savage brought down the house at York College last week, when more than 1,000 students, staff and community members packed into the educational institution for an evening filled with stories from the two icons on navigating life.
Often referred to as America’s favorite dad, Cosby, and Savage, the chief executive officer of Savage Holdings LLC, were the featured speakers at York’s African American Read-In event last Thursday.
“Regardless of your background, regardless of your upbringing you can basically be anything you want to be in life,” said Savage. “If you are determined to do it and you just have to prepare yourself, but most importantly, you have to believe in yourself.”
The audience at the Read-In, which emphasized the determination by both Cosby and Savage in their careers and lives, was frequently delighted by Cosby’s classic wit. Moderator and NY1 News Anchor Cheryl Wills, asked both men, both of whom are also authors, how they have achieved great success, despite not being born with silver spoons in their mouths.
“What’s the secret sauce?” Wills asked.
“I didn’t have a linoleum one (spoon),” Cosby quipped.
These luminaries from the arts and business world exemplified what rewards come from hard work and determination, which, York students and staff stressed, are both hallmarks of the college’s community. The challenges and triumphs that the two men delineate in their books serve as examples to both York students population and to the broader community.
“It was an honor to have both of these men at York College” said York President Marcia Keizs. “Their stories of success are powerfully told and their journeys engender much to be admired. I believe they will inspire students to pursue their own success.”
Information about Cosby’s “I Didn’t Ask to be Born (But I’m Glad I was),” a collection of observations, and Savage’s book, “The Savage Way: a Journey to the American Dream” was interwoven during the evening’s discussion.
“These two books happen to be wonderful examples of writing for humor and one for the inspiration,” Cosby said.
