Mike Bogdanski

Mike Bogdanski is a nationally recognized bullying prevention speaker and anti-bullying activist who has focused his career on empowering young people across the United States. He is a member of the International Bullying Prevention Association and has been referred to as America's anti-bully. For more than 25 years, Bogdanski has visited schools nationwide, presenting educational seminars that promote respect, self-confidence, courage, and teamwork to reduce or eliminate bullying. He has taught more than 25,000 students strategies to avoid becoming targets of bullying and to support others who may be victims.

Bogdanski's commitment to bullying prevention stems from personal experience. At age 16, he was targeted by a neighborhood bully, which resulted in a confrontation and physical assault. The trauma from this event led to months of fear and isolation. Determined not to remain a victim, Bogdanski enrolled in a karate class to overcome his fear and focus on prevention. Through persistence, he earned his green belt, the highest achievement in his class at the time.

Building on this transformative experience, Bogdanski pursued both academic and martial arts accomplishments. He became a seventh-degree black belt and earned a bachelor's degree in psychology followed by a master's degree in school counseling. By integrating martial arts principles with contemporary success psychology, Bogdanski delivers a unique message to diverse audiences. This combination of academic training and personal experience lends authenticity to his presentations, resonating with students, educators, and parents.

Central to Bogdanski's school programs is his signature "H.E.R.O." assembly. H.E.R.O., which stands for Helping Everyone Respect Others, encourages students to become everyday heroes. He guides students on an emotional journey from victim to victory, sharing his story and using character-based principles of courage, respect, and teamwork to demonstrate how bullying can be addressed and how students can support peers who are targeted. Rather than beginning with faculty and staff, Bogdanski starts with students, aiming to empower them to overcome challenges and understand they are not defined by their experiences with bullies.

Bogdanski's work in bullying prevention and youth empowerment has earned him recognition, including acknowledgment from the governor of Connecticut and the designation of "Mike Bogdanski Day" in the state. He has also received the George Racine Humanitarian Award from the Northeast Connecticut Chamber of Commerce for his dedication to youth in his community. Educators consistently note his ability to connect with young audiences and the lasting impact of his message on students and staff.