Finalists for director of the Black Cultural Center to give public talks

Following a national search, the search committee for the new director of the Purdue University Black Cultural Center has announced four finalists.

Faculty, staff and students are invited to hear each candidate present their vision for the future of the Black Cultural Center during public talks the weeks of Aug. 29 and Sept. 5.

• Sean Palmer, director of the Upperman African American Cultural Center, University of North Carolina-Wilmington. Public talk at 9:30-10:15 a.m. Monday (Aug. 29) at the Black Cultural Center (BCC), Multipurpose Room 1.
• Anne Marie Edwards, director of the Center for Black Studies, Northern Illinois University. Public talk at 9:30-10:15 a.m. Wednesday (Aug. 31) at the Black Cultural Center (BCC), Multipurpose Room 1.
• Richard Brown, assistant director of diversity initiatives, Indiana University School of Medicine. Public talk at 9:30-10:15 a.m. Sept. 2 at the Black Cultural Center (BCC), Multipurpose Room 1.
• Stacia Murphy, director of equity, outreach and strategic partnerships, Greater Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce. Public talk at 9:30-10:15 a.m. Sept. 9 at the Black Cultural Center (BCC), Multipurpose Room 1.

“This is an incredibly important search, as the new director will help define the strategic vision for the future of the Black Cultural Center,” says John Gates, vice provost for diversity, inclusion and belonging. “We are looking for someone who will ensure that the BCC is the epicenter of Black life, identity, thriving and belonging. The director will engage a variety of stakeholders on our campus.”

Attendees will be invited to submit responses to candidate surveys following each campus visit.