Spring Convocation

Spring Convocation which officially kicks off the spring semester and the campus-wide celebration of the Black History Month.

Speaker: Ytasha L. Womack

Speaker Bio: 

Ytasha L. Womack is a multifaceted creative professional known for her work as an award-winning author, filmmaker, independent scholar, and dance therapist. She is a prominent figure in Afrofuturism, delivering lectures worldwide on the power of imagination and its diverse applications. Her book "Afrofuturism: The World of Black Sci-Fi and Fantasy Culture" is considered a definitive guide on the subject, widely used in academic settings. Womack's influence extends beyond academia; her expertise has inspired real-world manifestations such as the Afrofuturism-themed restaurant Bronze in Washington D.C. She has been featured in prestigious institutions like the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History & Culture and contributed to documentaries exploring Afrofuturism's origins.

As a curator and resident artist, Womack has spearheaded significant cultural events and collaborations, including Carnegie Hall's Afrofuturism Festival and Black Rock Senegal, led by renowned artist Kehinde Wiley. Her creative ventures include writing projects like "Black Panther: A Cultural Exploration" and the upcoming graphic novel "Blak Kube," as well as producing Afrofuturist-themed science animations. Womack's contributions have earned her recognition as a thought leader and innovator in design, with numerous accolades and features in prominent publications. With a Chicago-native background and a slate of upcoming releases, Womack continues to push boundaries and shape the landscape of Afrofuturism and creative expression.