Black Family Conference Will Crush Myths About African Americans and STEM

Hampton University is set to hold its 38th Annual Conference on the Black Family on March 16-18. The focus of the conference will be to dispel myths that abound as to why African Americans are underrepresented in science, tech, engineering, and math (STEM) studies and careers.

Speaking at the conference will be experts from academia, the federal government, health professions and advocacy organizations. Among these experts will be Dr. Luther Williams, a professor emeritus at Tuskegee University, and the former assistant director of education and human resources at the National Science Foundation (NSF). Dr. Williams will deliver the opening keynote address.

Dr. James Hubbard, Jr., a Samuel P. Langley distinguished professor at University of Maryland, College Park; and the director of Morpheus Laboratory; as well as director of the Center for Adaptive Aerospace Vehicle Technology (National Institute of Aerospace) will deliver a mid-event keynote.

The closing keynote address will be delivered by Saundra Yancy McGuire, Ph.D., the author of Teach Students How to Learn; and former assistant vice chancellor and professor of chemistry, as well as Director Emerita for the Center for Academic Success at Louisiana State University.

A series of panels and roundtables will focus on the connection between the arts and the sciences through music; discuss safety in cyberspace; and health issues that are important to the African American community, such as strokes.

The Jenkins family of Richmond, VA, will also be recognized as the honored black family at the opening session.

“At this year’s conference, we want to engage in meaningful conversations and activities that will empower your family,” said Dr. Michele Claville, school of science assistant dean and conference chairperson.

Since 1978, Hampton University’s Conference on the Black Family has created a forum for prevalent issues concerning the black family. Hampton University president Dr. William R. Harvey saw a need for consistent dialogue in the African American community and initiated the conference to fill the void.

The opening ceremony, as well as all panels and roundtables, are free for Hampton University students, faculty, staff, and preceptors. The full registration prior to March 12, 2016, is $45 for the general public; and $20 for military and seniors.

From March 12, 2016, to March 16, 2016 (5:00 p.m.), the full registration is $65 for the general public; and $40 for military and seniors. The admission to Friday’s closing program and luncheon is only $25 per person.