The University of Akron will host its fifth annual Black Male Summit April 13 and 14 at the Student Union to bring awareness to critical issues in higher education for young black men. With expected attendance of more than 1,000, the summit will identify challenges and provide solutions to promote success academically and in the community.
The two-day event — free to UA students, faculty and staff — is open to the public for $50. Nationally recognized speakers, education leaders, experts and students will address topics such as the success of urban prep academies; black male identity development; the importance of mentoring; male/female relationships; entrepreneurship; public policy; and black male college success.
Presenters will include: Dr. Randal Pinkett, author and winner of the TV reality program, "The Apprentice;" R.A. Vernon, Pastor of The Word Church in Cleveland; and Dr. Joseph White, psychology professor at the University of California, Irvine.
Special guest Orrin "Checkmate" Hudson, chess champion and founder of BE SOMEONE, will conduct a workshop on “Winning Moves to Succeed in Life.”
The deadline for registration is April 6. For the full schedule of events, or to register, visit Black Male Summit, call 330-972-6446 or e-mail BMS@uakron.edu.
Media contact: Sarah Lane, 330-972-7429 or slane@uakron.edu.