The 23rd annual Black Issues Conference is a catalyst in the educational process, offering a forum for exploration of cultural enrichment and issues impacting the African-American community at the local, regional, state and national levels, and sparking discussion on campus and in the surrounding community.

The event will be held Feb. 16 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Bowen-Thompson Student Union 1001 E Wooster St., on the Bowling Green State University campus.

The 2023 theme is “To Be Successful, Gifted and Black,” featuring keynote speakers Clarence A. Daniels Jr., J.D., and Monet Latham Daniels.

The two are Falcon Flames and BGSU graduates who earned their master’s degrees in education. Monet Daniels spent decades as a teacher and administrator before starting her own educational consulting firm specializing in urban school reform. Daniels started his professional career as a child advocate and civil rights lawyer with the Children’s Defense Fund. He went on to serve in leadership roles in several major companies, including as vice president of the Marriot Corp., before founding CMS Hospitality, an airport food and beverage concessions company that was among the fastest-growing companies in its industry segment. The couple remains heavily involved in civic and community organizations and enjoy providing mentorship to different organizations and youth.

Registration for the event is required at https://events.bgsu.edu/event/black_issues_conference_7552

Registration is free for BGSU students, who must register with a valid BGSU email.

The cost is $15 for non-BGSU students and faculty and staff. Standard registration is $30. Registration closes on Feb. 14.