“Leadership: Learning From the Past” will be the theme for the fourth annual African-American Leadership Conference at Troy University Feb. 4-5.

The conference, co-hosted by the University and the City of Troy will kick off at 6 p.m. with registration and check-in in the Trojan Center’s second floor lounge with the opening general session at 6:30 p.m.

Attending the opening session of the conference will be Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr., chancellor of Troy University, City of Troy Mayor Jimmy Lunsford and the Rev. S. D. James, bishop of the Evangelistic Pentecostal Churches Worldwide, Inc.

The Hon. Lois C. DeBerry, speaker pro tem of the Tennessee House of Representatives, will provide the evening’s keynote address.

DeBerry, the first African-American woman elected to the Tennessee House, earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Lemoyne-Owen College and is president emeritus of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators.

A reception, with entertainment provided by Shelia Jackson, Larry Thomas and Henry Everett, will close out the first night of the conference.
Dr. Richard Bailey will open the conference on Feb. 5 with a lecture on “The Niagara Movement,” followed by a presentation entitled “Legal Affairs” given by Assistant District Attorney Scherryl Harrison, Dr. Sebrena Moten and Attorney Joe Faulk.

Also included in the day’s activities will be Mrs. Johnny Carr, Mrs. Ann McMillian, Mr. Edward Vaughn and Dr. Erik Brooks.

The conference will close out with a luncheon including door prizes and a lecture given by Dr. Tonea Stewart, professor and director of theater arts at Alabama State University.

The cost of the conference will be $30 if registering before the conference, $35 for onsite registration and $10 for students. For more information contact the office of student involvement and leadership at 670-3669.