About the Conference

The purpose of this conference is to offer a forum for research and discussion of issues affecting the African-American culture. This conference features a nationally known keynote speaker; in addition to a diverse set of workshops and panel discussions led by undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, administrators and members of the local, regional and national communities. The conference is open to all students and takes place at the University of Tennessee. The conference started in 2005, and now boasts an average of 300 participants. Pre-registration is required for participation in this event. This conference is sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Student Life in collaboration with the UTK chapter of NAACP. Annually a host of diverse student organizations, university departments, and corporations help to sponsor this event.

Call for Proposals

We encourage the submission of innovative and engaging program proposals for the 19th Annual Conference scheduled for Saturday, February 3rd. Our theme for 2024 is Access and Advocacy: Shaping a More Inclusive Tomorrow in Black Communities. Some topics of interest include, but are not limited to: Visible and Invisible disabilities, Mental Health in the Black Community, Representation in disability spaces, Access, Resource insecurity, Accessible technology, Public services and resources, Wealth Gap, Diagnosis among Black community, and Voter suppression .

Proposal Criteria

The following fields must be completed on the online registration form:

• Presentation Title
• Presenter(s) Name, Title, and Institution
• Conference Topic
• Abstract/Summary of Program
• Learning Outcome(s)
• Relationship to Conference Theme
• Background of Presenters

Program Proposal Deadline

Sunday, January 07, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. EST