Talladega College will commemorate Black History Month during its annual Opening Convocation on Thursday, February 24, 2022, at 10 AM in DeForest Chapel.
The speaker for this year’s event is Dr. Emmitt Y. Riley, III, associate professor of Political Science and Africana Studies at DePauw University in Greencastle, IN.
Professor Riley earned a Ph.D. and an M.A. in Political Science at The University of Mississippi where he specialized in American Politics and International Relations, he also earned a master’s degree in Political Science from Jackson State University, and two bachelor’s degrees from Mississippi Valley State University in English and Political Science.
He is an expert in American Politics, Black Politics, Legislative Politics, and Racial Attitudes. In 2018, he was named the Anna Julia Cooper Teacher of the Year by the National Conference of Black Political Scientists. In 2020, he received the Fannie Lou Hamer Award for Service from the National Conference of Black Political Scientists. He also received the 2021 G. Bromley Oxnam Award for Service. Riley has written several peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. His research has appeared in the Journal of Black Studies, Journal of Race & Policy, and the National Review of Black Politics.
Dr. Lisa Long, acting president of Talladega College, is delighted to have Dr. Riley serve as this year’s Convocation speaker.
“I look forward to him empowering our students as we honor the paramount achievements of pioneers and trailblazers throughout history,” she said.
This event will also embody a brief initiation of the new Presidential Honor Society members. The Presidential Honor Society is an academic society consisting of students who have earned a grade point average of 3.5 or above.
“We are Black History,” said Long. “I am excited to celebrate the diligence and perseverance of our students during an occasion that also highlights the contributions of individuals who chartered paths in a society that was once not designed for us to succeed.”
Although this year’s Opening/Black History Convocation will be hosted in person, the College will adhere to all safety guidelines issued by the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention.
