Kerry Max Cook

Imagine being convicted of a crime you did not commit and spending 22 years on death row before proving your innocence. Sounds impossible, right? Think again. Kerry Max Cook is the longest tenured death row inmate in U.S. history to be freed. Due to fraudulent evidence, prosecutorial misconduct, and incompetent counsel, Kerry was held accountable for the terrible murder of a young woman who lived in his building. It was not until several grueling years later that indisputable DNA evidence exonerated Kerry and implicated the woman's married ex-lover, a local college professor, of the crime.

After such a horrific ordeal, most people would seek revenge or languish away in an all-consuming depression. Instead, Kerry strives to turn his frightening experience into something positive. He is a proud husband and father, and he passionately labors to bring about change in the criminal justice system so that not one more innocent person suffers senselessly. The 77th Texas Legislature, the Council of Europe, and the former French Justice Minister have already called on Kerry to explain the need for reform in an unquestionably flawed judicial system. In fact, he was instrumental in former Governor George Ryan's decision to issue a moratorium on the death penalty in his state. Furthermore, Kerry serves as an educator, teaching law and journalism students about the pursuit of truth and protection of the innocent. But make no mistake - Kerry's goal on the lecture circuit is to educate and enlighten, to impart courage and optimism, not to preach for the abolishment of the death penalty.

People are fascinated by tales of triumph over insurmountable odds and injustice, both fictional and non-fictional. It's time for a fresh example of courage under the most challenging of circumstances.

Kerry has a riveting story to tell and valuable lessons to teach. He is a compelling reminder of unflagging optimism and the power of the human spirit. Kerry captures his message best with this statement: "My story is, if you believe in a dream passionately enough, have faith in God, yourself, and the basic goodness of humanity, you can make your most fervent dream come true. I did. And, today, I am the embodiment of that belief."