Keynote speaker: Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, a best-selling author, public intellectual, distinguished professor and cultural critic.

Dr. Dyson holds advanced academic appointments in African American and Diaspora Studies, Ethics and Society, and is the NEH Centennial Chair. Dyson taught at prominent institutions such as Princeton, Brown, Columbia, and Georgetown, earning acclaim for his scholarship, teaching, and public engagement.

Dyson has authored over 25 books, including seven New York Times bestsellers, that address topics ranging from figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Tupac Shakur (2Pac), and Barack Obama to broader issues of race, culture, and justice in America. His work has garnered prestigious honors such as the Langston Hughes Medal, American Book Award, Southern Book Award, NAACP Image Awards, and recognition from major reviewers and media outlets.

Beyond academia, Dyson is a celebrated preacher, lecturer, and media commentator, regularly appearing on major radio and television programs, and contributing to leading publications including the New York Times and Chicago Sun-Times. Renowned for his eloquence and insight, Dyson seamlessly blends scholarly rigor with cultural relevance, influencing conversations on race, democracy, and social change nationwide.

The University at Albany has commemorated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., since the mid-1980s.  The event is coordinated by the Division of Inclusive Excellence, with support from the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, the Student Association, Honors College, Office of Communications and Marketing and the NYS Writers Institute.  

PARKING: Dutch faculty/staff #5 and Podium West lot #20.