Baltimore County, Md. — In honor of Black History Month, CCBC President Sandra Kurtinitis welcomes award-winning journalist and social activist Jeff Johnson as the guest lecturer for the 2018 President’s Distinguished African-American Lecture Series. Scheduled from 11:10 a.m. – 12: 30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 15 at CCBC Essex (Romadka College Center), Johnson will speak on the topic Unclaimed Legacy: Who Will Lead the Next Social Movement?”
Johnson is currently managing principal for the Baltimore-based strategy firm, JIJ Communications, where he provides strategic insight and messaging consulting to clients in the private, public and entertainment sectors. Over the last two decades he has developed expertise in communications, political engagement and strategic consulting to create a unique career committed to developing solutions and systemic change. The focus of his lecture is to encourage young people to help their communities by taking an active role in social activism and continuing the legacy of great social leaders from the past.
Johnson formally served as national director for the Youth and College Division of the NAACP. In 2014 he worked with comedian Steve Harvey on his New York Times best-seller, Act Like A Success, Think Like A Success and he provides regular content on the nationally syndicated Rickey Smiley Morning Show.
Johnson commits much of his personal and professional life to the development of leadership and social impact infrastructure serving on several boards including Vote Run Lead, The Cleveland Foundation’s African-American Philanthropy Committee and the historic Lincoln Theatre in Columbus, Ohio.
In addition to Johnson’s lecture, the National Black Anthem (Lift Every Voice and Sing) will be performed by CCBC’s cast from Choir Boy, a play by Oscar-winning playwright and actor Tarell Alvin McCraney. Appearing in 2017 at the college, the production was directed by CCBC Professor Precious Stone with performers from throughout Baltimore County, Baltimore City and the surrounding metropolitan area.
CCBC’s President’s Distinguished African-American Lecture Series is free and open to the public; however, tickets are required. For tickets, contact the CCBC Box Office at 443-840-2787 or visit a CCBC Student Life Office.