Mark Sturdivant

Mark Sturdivant, former Co-Captain of the University of Maryland football team, and founder of STURDI (Success Takes Ultimate Resilience, Determination, and Inspiration), is a dynamic speaker known for his high-energy delivery and ability to inspire audiences of all backgrounds. With a mission to empower individuals and organizations to overcome adversity and achieve success as he had to do in his personal journey to Embrace the New You. 

Mark Sturdivant was born in Washington D.C. and currently resides in Silver Spring Maryland. His story is one of grit, growth, and unshakable conviction. 

During Mark’s journey to Embrace the New You he realized that there was a time he used to shrink to fit into the spaces, others created for him. Comparing himself to others. But in doing so, he second-guessed his voice, his value, and his vision. Mark said he “did that because I was scared of my ability and mindset to become successful”. My journey hasn’t been perfect, but powerful. I have established my walk and faith with God and built a relationship that is always growing.” Mark works in his passion for working with children and have never had a day that he did not like coming to work or empowering youth and adults through his business STURDI (Success Takes Ultimate Resilience Determination Inspiration). Short for his last name, Sturdivant.

Mark was asked the following questions about his journey to Embrace the New You:

What was your biggest obstacle/hurdle to overcome in your journey to Embrace the New You?

Without question, the biggest obstacle I had to overcome was getting hurt my senior year as the Co-Captain of the University of Maryland, College Park football team. I remember it like it was yesterday. I had worked my entire life for the opportunity to go to the NFL. I was predicted to get drafted into the NFL before the season even started. It was all within reach.

It was the first game of the season, against the University of Virginia. Two of the best preseason All-Americans were going head-to-head, and I was dominating him all game. I felt unstoppable; everything I had worked for was right there in my vision.

And then, just like that, it was gone.

I made a routine tackle, and in an instant, I broke my ankle. A career-ending injury. All the blood, sweat, and years of sacrifice came crashing down in that one moment. You talk about adversity—this was a level of heartbreak I had never felt before. Dreams crushed to have the opportunity to go to the NFL.

I had to figure out who I was without football. It was one of the hardest moments of my life, it also became the moment that shaped the next chapter. I learned that my identity wasn’t just tied to being an athlete.

Where did you find your strength to get past your challenges?

I found my strength to get past my challenges through a foundation built by the people who truly believed in me and stood by me throughout my life.

First and foremost, my parents (Willard and Brenda Sturdivant also my brother) were my biggest supporters. They gave me love, structure, and core values that shaped who I am. Their encouragement, even during difficult times, helped me believe in myself and stay grounded.

Another major influence was my 4th-grade teacher, Mr. Lafkis. He was one of the first people outside my family who truly saw potential in me. He believed in my reading and writing abilities when I didn’t fully believe in them myself. Thanks to his support and patience, I was able to catch up and get on grade level. 

My coaches of all of my sports teams that I played on, also played a vital role. They pushed me to grow—not just as an athlete, but as a person. They taught me discipline, resilience, consistency, and how to work through adversity. Their guidance kept me focused and driven. I needed that during my education because I knew I had to be eligible to play sports. 

My extended family provided another layer of support. Whether it was through their wisdom, encouragement, or just being there when I needed them, they reminded me that I was part of something bigger and that I had people rooting for me. I carried my last name with PRIDE!

Lastly, the good choices I made in choosing friends—friends who are still in my life over 40 years later. OQP (Only Quality People). These friendships are a testament to loyalty, trust, and shared values. We’ve supported each other through life’s ups and downs, and knowing I have people like that in my corner has made all the difference. Some of my friends have passed away but I continue to live with their spirit.

How do you stay positive?

I stayed positive because of a powerful moment I’ll never forget. My father walked into the locker room during my injury. Now, my father was always a tough-love kind of guy. Growing up, he didn’t say “I love you” often, but I knew he loved me. He showed it through his actions. My father did not miss one sporting event in my entire life, and also how her provided for our family. That was just who he was: strong, steady, and always present.

But in that locker room, after I had suffered a career-ending injury in the first game of my senior season—a season where I was expected to be drafted into the NFL he sat down beside me and said something I’ll never forget. He looked me straight in the eye and said, “I love you. I’ve got your back. And all this time, I’ve been raising you to be a man—so when things get tough, you can rise above. You’re going to be back out on that field again.”

In that moment, everything shifted. I was hurting—physically, emotionally, spiritually—but his words reminded me of who I was and the foundation that has been built inside me. 

What advice can you give to others who are also facing their own challenges/journeys?

Keep pushing, even when it’s hard. Trust yourself, believe in your strength, and don’t be afraid to fall — because getting back up is what makes you powerful. There is a phrase, If you can look up, YOU can get up!

Which ETNU design (Sun, Turtle, Sunflower, Phoenix, Butterfly) resonates most with you? Why?

There are a few reasons why the ETNU Sun resonates with me:

It always rises. No matter how dark the night gets, the sun alwayscomes back. It reminds us that even after our darkest moments, there’s always a new beginning waiting.

It shines even when we can’t see it. On cloudy or stormy days, the sun is still there — just hidden. That’s like our inner strength or potential. Even when we don’t feel strong, it’s still inside us, waiting to break through.

It gives life and warmth. It fuels growth, warms the cold, and helps things bloom. Your light, kindness, and energy can impact others.

The sun shines its light on all. Shine your light!

How has the mantra Embrace the New You – ETNUinspired you?

ETNU is inspiring because it encourages growth, transformation, and self-acceptance. It reminds me that change isn’t just about becoming someone different. It is about welcoming the best version of yourself daily. Being vulnerable and open to new experiences and stepping into your full potential.

What is your favorite quality/strength about yourself after Embracing the New You?

I value most in myself is living with purpose and integrity. Knowing I have only one physical life on this earth pushes me to make each day meaningful. I’ve learned to lean on faith in God, not as a steady guide in everything I do. I strive to build trustworthy, uplifting relationships, because the people we surround ourselves with shape who we become OQP (Only Quality People). One of the biggest is I carry my last name with pride, knowing that my actions reflect not just me, but my family and the legacy that has been built and the one I’ll leave behind. 

What is a fun fact about you?

I’m a big fan of old-school classic cars. I’ve got two that I love to drive any chance I get. There’s just something about the feel, the style, and the history behind them. I’m all about family time, especially when it involves firing up the BBQ and getting everyone together. And one of my biggest passions? Motivational speaking, mentoring, and personal development coaching. I love inspiring both kids and adults, helping them see their worth and potential.

Mark’s journey reminds us that victory isn’t always loud — but it is always earned. Whether through leadership, advocacy, and mentorship, Mark has used his voice to break barriers, uplift others, and he has owned his story with pride.

ETNU celebrates Mark Sturdivant not just for where he’s been — but for how far his voice continues to carry. Because every victory deserves to be heard.