George E. Kent Lecture feat. Ilyasah Shabazz Thu., April 28, 2022 | 6:00 PM — 7:30 PM University of Chicago 1307 E. 60th Street Chicago, IL 60637 United States Sponsored By: The Organization of Black Students Hosted by the Organization of Black Students, the Kent Lecture series features world-renowned scholars discussing social issues. Past speakers include Harvard scholar Henry Louis Gates, activist Angela Davis, novelist James Baldwin, poet Nikki Giovanni, and author Ta-Nehisi Coates. The free public lectures are held in honor of the late George E. Kent, one of the first Black professors to earn tenure at UChicago. A professor in English at the University from 1970 until his death in 1982, he wrote the first full-scale biography of Pulitzer-winning poet Gwendolyn Brooks‚ who was also a past Kent Lecture speaker. Join the Organization of Black Students and the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy for the George E. Kent Lecture, featuring award-winning author, educator, and producer Ilyasah Shabazz. The evening will begin with a powerful lecture from Professor Shabazz followed by a thoughtful conversation and an opportunity for the audience to ask Professor Shabazz questions. After the event, there will be a reception for guests with hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. This year’s event will be held in-person at 6 p.m., with a livestream option available. Register Recent News More news Q&A: Assistant Professor Erin Kelley on Her Work in Program Evaluation, International Development, and With the World Bank Wed., July 09, 2025 University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy and Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth Launch New Pathbreaking Master’s Program in Climate and Energy Policy Tue., July 08, 2025 Provost Katherine Baicker Appointed Emmett Dedmon Distinguished Service Professor Thu., July 03, 2025