About Hal
For thirty-six years Hal Urban was an award-winning teacher at San Carlos and Woodside High Schools and at his alma mater, the University of San Francisco.
He is the author of eight books – all with an emphasis on good character. His first book, Life’s Greatest Lessons, was selected by Writer’s Digest as the Inspirational Book of the Year. For more information about his writings click on the Books page.
Hal Urban holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in history, and a Doctorate in education from the University of San Francisco. He has also done post-graduate study in the psychology of peak performance at Stanford University.
Since 1992 Dr. Urban has traveled more than two million miles while speaking nationally and internationally on positive character traits and their relationship to the quality of life.He has made more than a thousand presentations in forty-three states, Washington DC, and eight foreign countries. Additional information about his talks can be found on the Speaking page. In 2005 the Character Education Partnership in Washington DC presented Dr. Urban with its highest honor – the Sanford N. McDonnell Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2014 the University of San Francisco presented him with the Edward J. Griffin Education Alumni Award, also for lifetime achievement. Hal has a genuine love of life that includes several passions, chief among them are the three F’s – faith, family, and friends. His other main interests and activities are physical fitness, reading, sports, travel, photography, and life-long learning.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT HAL...
“Hal has the unique ability to captivate an audience immediately with his warmth, wit, and sincerity. it’s obvious that he loves life, and he has a special gift for bringing out the best in other people. His hard-earned wisdom is always evident in his compelling stories. He takes his listeners on a joyous journey into how life can be when we develop the true goodness that is inherent in all of us.”
“Hal Urban has keynoted for several years at our Summer Institute in Character Education. Nobody gets higher evaluations. Nobody does a better job of combining humor, personal stories, and practical wisdom. Nobody is a more credible advocate of character education and living a life that matters. He is equally good at delivering an uplifting message to teachers, parents, and kids. That’s why we’ve recommended him to scores of groups around the country and around the world.”
Past Rotary International District Governor
“Hal’s outstanding delivery, humor, enthusiasm, and message have always earned him a standing ovation from a group of professional, business, and civic leaders who are accustomed to excellent speakers. I would recommend Hal Urban to any group that’s looking for a powerful and uplifting message.”
“As a program coordinator, I wish I could have Hal keynote every year. He is a phenomenal author, speaker, and human being. He exemplifies character and professionalism, and he touches people of all ages and walks of life with his positive energy and kindness.”