Founder, PUSH for Dreams
Alum, Class of 2006

Dr. John “Push” Gaines is a former at-risk kid turned CEO/Founder of nonprofit PUSH for Dreams, best-selling author, renowned speaker, leadership consultant, and mentorship advocate. His message of pushing through adversity and defying the odds has transformed classrooms, school districts, and businesses across the nation.  

John embraces crucial subject matters with a highly organic, kind-hearted approach, fueled by positivity and the intrinsic desire to unite the community. He is celebrated for nurturing youth, as well as professionals, through his life experience and unique challenges that ultimately became the driving force behind his mission. His belief in the power of perseverance and ability to inspire others to “keep pushing” through life’s obstacles to become the best versions of themselves, earned John his nickname “PUSH.” In June 2020, Dr. Gaines was named one of the “Top 10 Most Influential People of 2020” by YAHOO News. 

Devoting himself to the world community, John has proudly appeared as a guest speaker at universities, corporations, national conferences, nonprofit events, NBA skill camps, school assemblies, and youth camps nationwide. A Bellarmine alum, John graduated East Central University in Oklahoma, where he was named Outstanding Student in Business and won a football championship as captain of the team. John demonstrates outstanding dedication and personal achievement with a Master’s degree in Business Leadership and a Doctorate in Business Administration.

John’s greatest joy is being a husband to Emily and father to Anorah, Benny and Jonah.