UA to host Black Male Summit April 11 and 12

Akron, Ohio, March 13, 2008 — The University of Akron will host its first-ever Black Male Summit April 11 and 12 at the Student Union to bring awareness to critical issues in higher education for young black men. The summit will identify challenges and provide solutions to promote success academically and in the community.

The two-day event, which is open to the public, will include workshops, informational sessions and a roundtable discussion. Nationally recognized speakers, education leaders, experts and students will address topics such as practical strategies for the classroom; the role of the black church; hip hop and its cultural effects; black male identity development; the importance of mentoring; male/female relationships; and black male violence and suicide.

Presenters will include Hill Harper, an actor on “CSI: NY" and author of the New York Times bestseller “Letters to a Young Brother,” and Dr. Na'Im Akbar, professor of clinical psychology at Florida State University.

“We are hosting this event to bring attention to black men's challenges," says Fedearia Nicholson, director of UA's Office of Multicultural Development. “Not only is this an opportunity to educate the campus and communities on the issues facing these students, it's a chance to engage in dialogue to help better understand where these young men feel support is needed."

The deadline for registration is March 31. For the full Black Male Summit schedule of events, or to register, visit http://www.uakron.edu/multculdev/bms/, call 330-972-6447, or e-mail BMS@uakron.edu.

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