MLK Lecture: Basil Smikle Jr. Ph.D.

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lecture is sponsored by the Akron Summit County Public Library and the Eta Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

In addition to being a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Dr. Basil Smikle Jr. is a Distinguished Lecturer and Director of the Public Policy Program at the Roosevelt House Public Policy Institute at Hunter College-City University of New York.  He also lectures at Columbia University in the School of International and Public Affairs and Teachers College.  With over 15 years in higher education and 25 years of a career dedicated to public service, Basil regularly shares insights on electoral politics, governance, and public policy on national media outlets such as MSNBC, CNN, Bloomberg News, The Hill, The New York Times and The Washington Post. He holds a Ph.D. in Politics and Education and a Master of Public Administration from Columbia University and received a Bachelor of Science from Cornell University. 

Basil has become a leading voice on some of the most pressing issues of the day, including criminal justice reform, ballot access, civic engagement, and education. As a member of 100 Black Men, he helped start the Eagle Academy in the Bronx, which has grown to 6 schools in New York and New Jersey.  For his work, Basil received numerous awards, including citations from the New York State Governor and Comptroller for his commitment to public service and education equity.

This is a free event. Seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors to the auditorium will open at 1:30 pm.

Free parking is available in the High Street parking deck on weekends.

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