In the current academic climate meeting the rigorous demands of excellence is not an option for students, faculty and administrators of color. That is why - in the tradition of living legend Dr. John Hope Franklin - Diverse: Issues In Higher Education will host a two-day symposium to critically examine the methods, models, and best practices associated with superior academic and leadership records in higher education.

We will convene the scholars, the programs, and cultural settings that are setting the standards of excellence in their respective fields. You will have the unique opportunity to learn from, benchmark against, and be inspired by their success stories and strategies.

Historian, educator, and scholar, Dr. John Hope Franklin has made a significant impact not only on his colleagues and associates, but on the world. In tribute to his accomplishments, we present the 2006 John Hope Franklin Awards. This year we honor three legends who exemplify Dr. Franklin’s commitment to excellence: Dr. Maya Angelou, Dr. James Comer, and Dr.William Clyde Friday.