Michael Morrow, executive director of the West Kentucky African American Heritage and Research Center in Russellville, will be one of the panelist for a symposium at Western Kentucky University Saturday, June 6.
     "Black Life and Culture in the Commonwealth" is the theme of the program, 
which will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Cupola Room, located in the Fresh Food Company of the Downing University Center. "Fresh Food Company" is the current name of what was long known as the cafeteria at DUC.
     The keynote speaker will be Dr. Dennis Dickerson, a professor of history 
at Vanderbilt University and author of  Militant Mediator: Whitney M. 
Young Jr. , an award-winning biography of a Kentucky native who headed the National Urban League during the Civil Rights era.
     Other presenters besides Morrow and Dickerson will include Maxine Ray of the New Era Planning Committee in Bowling Green; Dr. John Hardin, associate professor in WKU's Department of History; and Dr. Patricia Minter, associate professor in the college's history department.
     Hosted by WKU in collaboration with Kentucky African American Encyclopedia Project, the symposium will feature information focusing on the preservation and history of the life and culture of Kentucky African Americans and their communities. Discussion will included the significant contributions of many individuals, organizations, movements and communities that have helped shape Kentucky's future.
     The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments and a light lunch will be provided.