Social activist highlights Black History Month celebration

AUGUSTA, Ga. – Social activist and musical performer Yewande Austin will be the keynote speaker for Augusta University’s Black History Month Kick-off Celebration at 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4, in the Jaguar Student Activities Center Ballroom.

Known as the “First Lady of Alternative Soul,” Austin’s socially charged music has brought her center stage with the likes of Black Eyed Peas, Maroon 5 and India Arie. However, her work as an award-winning lecturer and activist is considered to be her greatest achievement.

For over a decade, Austin’s organization the Change Rocks Foundation has empowered over 250,000 children by teaching them critical life skills; her humanitarianism won her a nomination for CNN’s Hero Award. Additionally, her thought-provoking presentations on social and economic challenges garnered her opportunity to be a 2015 TEDx speaker.

Austin serves as a lecturer-in-residence at Virginia Commonwealth University and honorary U.S. cultural ambassador.

Other events happening throughout the month include a Black History Trolley Tour, an African American Faculty Recognition Reception and the Healing Arts Display Wall featuring the work of photographer Yolanda Rouse.

For a complete list of Augusta University’s Black History Month activities, visit http://www.augusta.edu/diversity/bhm/  or contact the school’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion at 706-721-9265.