Speakers at the Black Boys and Men National Symposium will inspire participants with action steps for change

The keynote speakers at the fifth annual Black Boys and Men National Symposium, June 10-12 in Battle Creek, will advance conversations and strategies that drive meaningful, equitable change in education.

New to southwest Michigan this year, the symposium's mission remains the same: three days of connection and action focused on transforming the systems that shape the lives of Black boys and men.

B. Donta Truss, vice president for Enrollment Development and College Futures, said: “These keynote speakers will do more than inspire. They will challenge participants to think deeply, lead with clarity and leave with defined action steps to take back and do the work required to change trajectories for Black boys. The expectation is not reflection alone. It is a commitment to disciplined, intentional work that strengthens classrooms, institutions, communities and industry, calling on all who walk alongside Black boys and men to advance outcomes across the country.”

Details about the speakers are below. Registration for the symposium at the Double Tree by Hilton Battle Creek, 50 Capital Ave. SW, is open.

Walter Kimbrough

Walter M. Kimbrough is a nationally recognized scholar whose research focuses on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and African American men in college. A former president at Philander Smith College in Arkansas and a longtime higher education administrator, Kimbrough is the author of "Black Greek 101" and has received numerous awards for his advocacy.

Steve Pemberton

Steve Pemberton returns to the symposium to share insights on leadership, workplace culture and human potential. Pemberton is the founder & CEO of The Lighthouse Academy, a consultancy dedicated to transforming workplace culture. Pemberton's journey from foster care to executive inspired his first book, "A Chance in the World." He serves on multiple nonprofit boards, including Disability: IN, and Boys Hope Girls Hope.  

Steve Perry

Steve Perry began his career as the director of a homeless shelter. He founded Capital Preparatory Schools in Connecticut and New York, building a national and international reputation for expanding opportunities for Black and Latino students and supporting their academic and social development. 

Learn more about the Black Boys and Men National Symposium.