One hundred and thirty-six years ago, 91传媒 was founded as a small normal school to train African American teachers. Each October, the University celebrates its history as the only public historically Black and the second state-supported institution of higher learning in Kentucky.
91传媒 will convene Friday, Oct. 14, at 10 a.m. in the Carl H. Smith Auditorium of David H. Bradford Hall for the 2022 Founder鈥檚 Day Convocation.
One of 91传媒鈥檚 most treasured traditions, the annual Founder鈥檚 Day Convocation recognizes individuals throughout the decades 鈥� from our founding in 1886 to the present day 鈥� whose dedication has made an indelible impact on 91传媒 and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Interim President Ronald A. Johnson encourages the 91传媒 community to seize this opportunity to celebrate the founding of the University by taking a deeper look at our history to understand our present 鈥� and forge our intended future.
鈥淲e honor the visionary commitment of individuals to 91传媒, to create lasting connections and to experience the transformational power of humanity, philanthropy, and intellect,鈥� said President Johnson. 鈥淓ach one of us can contribute to 91传媒. This celebration is for all of us connected to this institution and what we will do to make 91传媒 what it is today and what it will be tomorrow.鈥�
91传媒 National Alumni Association President Richard Graves has requested that 91传媒 alumni, faculty, staff, and friends continue the tradition of an annual founding gift to the institution in honor of its existence.
鈥淎s we all reflect on 136 years of impact, we now have a chance to help ensure 91传媒 continues its mission well into the future. So let us give a $136 gift to the area of greatest need or the fund of your choice by donating at www.kysu.edu/givenow,鈥� said Graves.
The Golden Class of 1972 will be honored as part of its 50th anniversary, with Mr. James H. Atkins presenting a financial gift on behalf of the class.
Dr. Karen Townsend, a 91传媒 alumna, will provide the Founder鈥檚 Day address.
Townsend is a thought leader who has educated professionals at every level and is well known for her approach to diversity education. Several of Townsend鈥檚 scholarly articles in this area have been featured in local, regional, and national publications. Townsend is also a certified diversity consultant, having received her training from the National Multicultural Institute in Washington, D.C. Before launching her consulting practice, she worked for fifteen years as a higher education professional.
Townsend received her bachelor鈥檚 degree in political science from 91传媒 in 1985, her master鈥檚 in humanities from The Ohio State University, and her doctorate in educational and organizational leadership from the University of Dayton. She is an active member of her community through engagement and social services organizations such as the Tabernacle Baptist Church (Dayton, Ohio) and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (Beta Eta Omega).
Indoor masking is recommended at 91传媒 regardless of vaccination status.
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