Contact: Dave Groves
(248) 370-2759
groves@oakland.edu
For Immediate Release
Monday, Jan. 11, 2009
Renowned magazine publisher to speak at OU’s Keeper of the Dream celebration
Rochester, Mich. – Oakland University will welcome magazine publishing legend Susan L. Taylor to help celebrate diversity, culture and community during the 18th annual Keeper of the Dream Scholarship Awards Celebration on Monday, Jan. 18.
Each year, these scholarships pay tribute to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his achievements. They also honor undergraduate students who have contributed and promoted interracial understanding and good will.
Taylor will present the keynote address at this year’s event. For nearly three decades, she was the driving force behind Essence magazine – as its fashion and beauty editor, editor-in-chief and editorial director. She also is renowned for helping advance the African American community.
“Ms. Taylor’s significant achievements make her an inspiration and a dynamic role model for the students receiving the Keeper of the Dream award,” said Omar Brown-El, director of Oakland University’s Center for Multicultural Initiatives, which hosts the event.
Three students Oakland University students will be recognized for demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities through involvement both on campus and in the community. They also have helped breakdown cultural stereotypes and promoted interracial understanding.
The KOD scholarship presentation marks the unofficial launch of Oakland’s African American History Month. Events include a presentation by Hubert G. Locke, dean and professor emeritus at the University of Washington; the Taste of Africa Gala; and a performance by the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company.
The Keeper of the Dream event starts at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 18, in the Oakland Center’s Banquet Rooms. For more information, call the Center for Multicultural Initiatives at (248) 370-4404 or visit
www.oakland.edu/kod.
