Ohio State University will host the 6th annual Big 10 & Statewide Conference from 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 2* in the Ohio Union East Ballroom, 1739 N. High St. The Hon. Kweisi Mfume, former Maryland congressman and now NAACP national president and CEO, will give the keynote address at the conference luncheon. This year's theme is "Racial Legacies and Learning: Bridging the Political, Educational & Economic Divide."

The purpose of the conference is to provide an opportunity for individuals to discuss issues and ideals central to the nation's current focus on diversity and Affirmative Action. This will be accomplished through a multi-level review of the concept of "diversity" and its implementation within higher education, business, the church and local, state and national government. It also offers a chance to network, brainstorm and formulate positive solutions that may lead to ethno-cultural equity and inclusion at all levels of society.

The Conference is co-hosted by The Ohio State University Office of Minority Affairs and the Office of Student Affairs.

WHAT:The 6th annual Big 10 & Statewide Conference, "Racial Legacies: Bridging the Political, Educational & Economic Divide."

WHEN:9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Tues., May 2, conference.

1:15 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Hon. Kweisi Mfume, keynote address on "Racial Legacies and Learning" and question and answer period with conference attendees.

WHERE:The Ohio Union East Ballroom, 1739 N. High St.

WHY: To provide an opportunity for staff development, meaningful dialogue and enrichment on matters of diversity and affirmative action.

* Hon. Mfume will not be available to the media for one-on-one interviews.