On Thursday, May 19, Goodwin University and the Connecticut Legislative Black & Puerto Rican Caucus (BPRC) will welcome Ambassador Andrew J. Young to East Hartford for a co-hosted, in-person conversation on “Community Activism, Yesterday & Today.” Ambassador Young has earned worldwide recognition as a pioneer and champion of civil and human rights. His lifelong dedication to public service is illustrated by his extensive leadership experience of more than 65 years, serving as a member of Congress, the first African American U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, the mayor of Atlanta, and as an ordained minister. Speaking remotely in 2021, he was the University’s Commencement guest speaker. In this unique collaboration between Goodwin and the BPRC, he will share his thoughts with community members and will receive his Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters. The conversation will be moderated by columnist, radio and television host, and communications strategist Stan Simpson.

“We are so grateful that Ambassador Young will be joining us in person,” said Goodwin’s president, Mark Scheinberg. “In a historical sense, his perspectives are timeless. More importantly, in these challenging times, his practical insights on activism are critical, especially to our students, for building healthier communities.”

Geraldo Reyes, chair, and Bobby Gibson, vice chair of BPRC, provided these thoughts: “The breadth and scope of Andrew Young’s pioneering experience offer a treasure trove of wisdom to anyone with the chance to hear him speak. Ambassador Young has seen the world through every imaginable prism, whether it was the Civil Rights Movement, serving in Congress, leading one of America’s most prominent cities, or as a diplomat. His exemplary life of service spanning nearly 70 years is a template on how to make a measurable and tangible difference.”

Members of the public and media are invited to attend this conversation on May 19, 2 to 3:30 p.m., in the Goodwin auditorium at 211 Riverside Drive in East Hartford. There is no admission fee, however there is a capacity limit of 800. As of this writing, the University does not plan to enforce strict COVID protocols, but respectfully reserves the right to adjust its policies as conditions warrant.

Event: “Community Activism, Yesterday & Today” with Ambassador Andrew Young
Date: Thursday, May 19, 2022
Time: 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Admission: No charge
Location: Goodwin University Auditorium
211 Riverside Drive
East Hartford, CT 06118

PLEASE ALSO NOTE: On Friday, May 20, at 9:30 am, the World Affairs Council of Connecticut will host Ambassador Young for a discussion of current global issues including the war in Ukraine, the future of the UN, and global democracy. The event will be moderated by Jeffrey Ogba, professor of history at the University of Connecticut. The event open to the public and the media. There is no admission fee but reservations are recommended.