The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Diversity Leadership Symposia 2012, coordinated by the Gaughan Multicultural Center, the College of Law, and the Office of Admissions, is an opportunity to share cultural experiences and use education to improve the future for students.
The symposia have expanded beyond a high school student event series to include University of Nebraska-Lincoln student and campus/community engagement opportunities. This year three keynote speakers will each address prospective Huskers and the campus community.
Jai Steadman
Jai Steadman is entering his third season as an assistant coach for the NBA Development League's Rio Grande Valley Vipers. The Lincoln native graduated from the University of Nebraska, where he began his coaching career as an administrative assistant from 1992-through-1997. Adopted shortly after birth, the 40-year old Steadman learned just two years ago that his biological mother was a member of the Ponca tribe. He has since embarked on a journey of self-discovery to not only learn about his own roots, but to give back to those who have welcomed him into the Ponca family with open arms.
Andres Lara
Homeless at 16 and a millionaire at 26, Andres Lara is the author of several books, including Inspiring The Sleeping Giant Within, which is published in Korea, Africa and the U.S.; How To Stay Motivated During Difficult Times and The Finish Line. He's currently the CEO of A. Success Training, former president of Inspiration Magazine, and a nationally known speaker. At the age of 16, Lara escaped Cuba and arrived in America not knowing a word of English, without his parents, money or a home
Reverend Jesse Jackson
Reverend Jackson is one of America's foremost civil rights, religious and political figures. Over the past forty years, he has played a pivotal role in virtually every movement for empowerment, peace, civil rights, gender equality, and economic and social justice. In 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded Jackson the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor. President and founder of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, Rev. Jackson has been called the "conscience of the nation" and "the great unifier," challenging America to establish just and humane priorities. He is known for bringing people together on common ground across lines of race, class, gender, and belief.
Chad Smith
UNL College of Law
Monday November 5, 4:30 p.m.
Free: first-come, first-served seating
Patti Solis Doyle
UNL College of LawHamannn Auditorium
Tuesday November 13, 4:30 p.m.
Free: first-come, first-served seating
Hill Harper
Nebraska Union
Auditorium
Wednesday November 28, 3:30 p.m.Free: first-come, first-served seating