The University of New Mexico African-American Student Services is presenting the 4th Annual Black Cultural Conference titled, “Celebrating Legendary Families,” Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 26-28. Activities will be held at the UNM Student Union Building.
On Thursday, Feb. 26, at 6 p.m., there will be a town hall to share in discussions of the History of the Afro Studies/Services program, past present and future. The town hall will feature presentations by Dr. Harold Bailey, the Executive Director of the New Mexico State Office of African-American Affairs; Scott Carreathers, Director of African-American Student Services; and David J. Schmidly, President of the University of New Mexico.
On Friday, Feb 27, at 7 p.m., the Black Cultural Conference presents a Gospel Extravaganza, featuring Ben Tankard, a world renowned Grammy nominated gospel/jazz recording artist and pastor. He has won 9 Stellar Awards, 8 Dove, 3 Grammy nominations and is the best selling Gospel/Jazz instrumentalist in the world.
A “hit-maker” producer, Tankard discovered Yolanda Adams and has produced several top records with her as well as collaborations with Take-6, Fred Hammond, John P, Kee, among others. MC’s for the event will be Vince Baty of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, and Nina Cooper of New Hope. Also on program are Voices Of Purposes, Rosalind Jones and Shunna Love, doing Praise & Worship.
On Saturday, Feb. 28 at 11 a.m., the Black Cultural Conference presents the heart of its program activities with Living Legends-honoring Gladys Corley, and the legacy of Catherine Powdrell. These women anchor the lives of two legendary business families in the state of New Mexico. The program will be musical presentations by Voices of Purposes, and Marsha Hardeman will speak about the history and purpose of the event, and various family members to speak about the honorees.
On Saturday night, the conference activities will be brought to an entertaining conclusion at the University of New Mexico Sub Ballroom. Closing with a fun filled talent show produced by the entertainment professionals of Howling Coyote. Cash prizes will be given to contestant winners.
All events are free, however, donations are encouraged.