All events are free and open to the public.
Kent State University at Stark’s observance of Black History Month will include such notables as Mary Frances Berry, Ph.D., a national civil rights activist, and granddaughter of legendary blues artist B.B. King, Val B. King.
The celebratory activities are free, open to the public, and kick off with "Storytelling with Val B. King." King will perform from 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 21 in the auditorium at Main Hall, located on the campus at 6000 Frank Ave. NW. No tickets are required. This concert is presented in place of Cleveland-based electric blues ensemble, the Wallace Coleman Band, previously stated to perform.
King’s soothing sound has been influenced by gospel music, blues, jazz, soul and R&B. She recently finished her self-titled debut album, which includes a tribute song to her grandfather entitled, “The Legacy Goes On”.
Berry serves as the third presenter in this year’s Featured Speakers Series lineup. She’ll speak at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at the campus’ Conference Center.
Berry, who served as chairperson of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission, led the charge for equal rights and liberties for Americans over the course of four presidential administrations. In her most recent book, “History Teaches Us to Resist: How Progressive Movements Have Succeeded in Challenging Times”, Berry chronicles more than 50 years of progressive victories and the winning tactics behind them.
Now in its 28th year, the Featured Speakers Series is free and open to the public, but tickets are required and limited to two per person.
Tickets for Berry’s presentation are now available at the Main Hall information desk and will remain available during regular business hours 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday.
Join Kent State Stark for Berry, King, and other events listed below:
“BLACK LIST” FILM PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION
Feb. 28
2 to 3:15 p.m.
301 Main Hall
Discussion led by Joel Carbonell, Ph.D., associate professor of political science, and Jessica Jones, lecturer of English.
PRESENTATION: THE BLACK EXPERIENCE IN AMERICA
March 5
5 to 6:30 p.m.
203 Main Hall
Presented by William Casterlow, enrollment management and student services advisor.
PRESENTATION: HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF BLACK ENGLISH
March 12
5 to 6 p.m.
Main Hall, Conference Room 1
Presented by Brenda Smith, Ph.D., associate professor of English.