Keynote Speakers
Dr. Chike Akua
➔ LUNCH KEYNOTE
Chike Akua, Ph.D. is an Instructional Leadership Strategist, Teacher Transformation Specialist and Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership at Clark Atlanta University. He is one of the most sought after speakers at urban schools, colleges, universities and educational conferences.
His books, ParentPower: The Keys to Your Child’s Academic & Social Success and Education for Transformation: The Keys to Releasing the Genius of African American Students are utilized for professional development in colleges, universities and urban schools both nationally and internationally. The book is for those who lead and teach Black students.
Dr. Akua has written 11 books in all, and produced a series of 70 Black History and African Proverb Posters along with Reading Revolution Online, a web-based academic support tool that increases reading comprehension, vocabulary development, grammar and writing skills and cultural competence. His curriculum materials are used globally in public, private and charter schools, colleges and universities.
Dr Akua earned a doctorate in educational policy studies at Georgia State University, a Master of Arts degree in education with a concentration in school counseling from Clark Atlanta University and is a cum laude graduate of Hampton University, where he earned a bachelor of arts degree in education (concentration in English).
Dr Akua has been featured in Ebony magazine and, more recently, in The Washington Post and Black Enterprise magazine for his work as an educational leader. He helped lead over 1000 students and parents on trips throughout Egypt, Ghana, Senegal and Morocco through the African Genesis Institute. Dr. Akua resides in the US just outside of Atlanta, GA, with his wife of twenty-nine years and their two sons.
Dante D. King
➔ MORNING KEYNOTE
Dante King, a San Francisco native and Adjunct Assistant Professor, is reshaping education and racial equity landscapes. His impact spans academia, law, and public health. Notably, Dante played a pivotal role in codifying new law in California's People v. Finley case, reflecting his commitment to legal advancements in the pursuit of racial justice.
As Deputy Director for the Department of Public Health Office of Health Equity, Dante led initiatives improving workforce and health equity outcomes. He championed the Racial Equity Action Plan and innovative antiracism policies.
Dante's influence extended to the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), where he directed the agency's inaugural Racial Equity Action Plan. His collaborations addressed racial disparities and organizational outcomes.
A seasoned Human Resources Manager, Dante introduced a citywide anti-racism training impacting over 20,000 employees. His efforts prompted systemic changes within the San Francisco Police Department, highlighting the depth of anti-Black bias.
Founding the Black Employees Alliance (B.E.A) in 2019, Dante advocated against racial inequities, influencing significant investigations and policy changes. His leadership earned him prestigious awards, including the Dr. Huey P. Newton Trailblazer and Legacy Award.
Beyond his impactful career, Dante is a sought-after speaker, educator, and author. His courses at institutions like UCSF explore the roots of racism, while his publications, including "The 400-Year Holocaust," garner accolades. Dante's ongoing work promises deeper insights into whiteness and anti-Blackness, cementing his position as a visionary leader driving societal change.