Scaling high hurdles and jumping through life's hoops are second nature to Dr. Mark Crear. The former track star captured global attention by winning the 1996 Olympic Silver Medal with a broken arm and the 2000 Olympic Bronze Medal with a double hernia. So it's not surprising why Dr. Crear is considered a symbol of strength, hard work and perseverance.

Born in San Francisco but reared in Southern California, young Mark graduated from local Rowland High School in 1987 and enrolled at Mt. San Antonio College, where he not only distinguished himself as an elite athlete, but also as an honor student. Upon graduating in 1990, Mark entered USC on a scholarship and graduated in 1992 with a Bachelor of Arts and captured the NCAA Championship Title in the 110-meter high hurdles. He enjoyed early success as a world-class track and field athlete, becoming a two-time Olympic Medalist, reigning as the world's No. 1 110-meter high hurdler three times (1995, 1998, 1999), becoming a Goodwill Games champion in 1998, a U.S. Outdoor national champion in 1994 and 1999, and a three-time World Grand Prix champion.

After his eventful athletic career, Mark applied what he learned on the track to a variety of disciplines, thereby reinventing himself several times over. As a dynamic motivational speaker, Mark founded In the Zone Performance Training, a consulting practice that helps companies, professionals and athletes overcome hurdles and improve their performance in the face of intense competition, pressure, fatigue and distraction.

After Mark earned a doctorate in theology in 2002 at the International Theological University, he founded the nondenominational Light of the World Christian Fellowship. He is currently on sabbatical as senior pastor. Dr. Crear is also a published author, having penned his inspirational autobiography, Why My Silver Is Gold.

These and other services and lines of business comprise Mark Crear Enterprises, which stands as a model for entrepreneurial success. These accomplishments notwithstanding, the role Dr. Crear cherishes most is that of "Dad" to his two children, Ebony and "Lil Mark." He also relishes opportunities to share his expertise with local charities, community groups and schools, including Mt. SAC, where he recently facilitated a well-received professional development seminar.

On the occasion of Mt. SAC's 61st Commencement, we celebrate the notable accomplishments of Dr. Mark Crear and proudly recognize him as a distinguished Alumnus of the Year.