Freeman A. Hrabowski, III
The College of Charleston is hosting the 2014 Diversity Conference on October 11 and 12, 2014. The theme is “Building Partnerships to Support Youth of Promise,” and features a keynote address from Freeman A. Hrabowski, III, one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World, according to Time Magazine.
A Diversity Celebration will be held on Sunday, October 12 starting at 3:30 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.
“As educators of future teachers it is vital we are part of the conversation about ensuring every child is able to reach their academic potential,” says Dean Fran Welch, College of Charleston School of Education, Health, and Human Performance. “Hosting this conference on our campus is an incredible opportunity for our students, faculty and the community.”
The conference begins at 9 a.m. on October 11 and includes two keynote speakers, 31 concurrent sessions and three panel discussions. College of Charleston teacher education professor and department chair Meta Van Sickle is the keynote speaker during lunch on Saturday. Hrabowski is Sunday’s luncheon keynote speaker.
RELATED: View a full conference schedule.
Dr. Hrabowski has served as president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) since 1992. His research and publications focus on science and math education with special emphasis on minority participation and performance. A leader in the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Hrabowski marched with Martin Luther King, Jr. in the Children’s March of 1963 in Birmingham. In 2011, he was featured on CBS’s 60 Minutes, attracting national attention for UMBC’s achievements in innovation and inclusive excellence. In 2012, Time named Dr. Hrabowski one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World.
Following the conference, the Celebration of Diversity will be held in TD Arena (301 Meeting St.). This celebration is free and open to the public. College of Charleston President Glenn McConnell, President Hrabowski and Congressman James E. Clyburn will address attendees. There will be performances by the Burke High School Marching Band, the College of Charleston dancers and cheerleaders, gospel and artistic performers, plus other special guests to be announced.
