College & Independent Schools
Black History Month & MLK Commemoration:
Public Intellectual & Best-Selling Author
Michael Eric Dyson is an author, public intellectual, and ordained Baptist minister. Intertwining today’s topics with cultural criticism, Dyson’s talks are thought-provoking, unwavering and foster social change.
Provocative Public Intellectual
A provocative public intellectual and champion for racial justice, Dr. Cornel West weaves together the traditions of the Black Baptist Church, progressive politics and jazz in his influential speeches.
Former Head of NAACP
Cornell William Brooks is the former head of the NAACP. As an attorney, activist, congressional candidate and pastor, Brooks has spoken on civil rights and the pressing issues our nation faces.
CNN Political Analyst, Lawyer & Activist
Speaker Bakari Sellers views himself as a public servant who believes education, civil rights and equality are the cornerstones of our nation’s future.
Civil Rights & Peace Activist
A pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement, Nash helped form the Nashville Student Movement and coordinated the Freedom Ride from Birmingham to Mississippi. Her work was featured in the PBS film Freedom Riders.
Author, Educator & Historian
A former chair of the US Civil Rights Commission, law professor and civil rights historian, Dr. Mary Frances Berry defends the rights of all people, supporting issues from fair housing to equal opportunity.
Pulitzer Nominee, Author & Reporter
Author of The Butler: A Witness to History, Wil Haygood’s writing career has spanned decades. As a journalist, he covered everything from Nelson Mandela’s release from jail to New Orleans post-Hurricane Katrina.
Political Commentator & TV Personality
From his conversations with world figures to his work to inspire the next generation, Tavis Smiley—broadcaster, author, publisher, advocate, and philanthropist—has emerged as an outstanding voice for change.