Conversation & Connection with Dr. Ruth J. Simmons

Presented by The African Diaspora Consortium

Conversation & Connection

Featuring Dr. Ruth J. Simmons

First African American President of an Ivy League University
Dillard University Alumna | 2026 Harvard Radcliffe Medalist

Preparing Citizens of the World: New Ways of Teaching, Learning and Believing

Join The African Diaspora Consortium for a day of conversation, learning, and connection focused on preparing educators to develop students with a broader global perspective.

The day will open with welcome remarks from Dillard University President Dr. Monique Guillory, who will welcome Dr. Simmons back to her alma mater and set the stage for a day of learning and dialogue focused on preparing students to engage an increasingly interconnected world.

Featured Lecture: Dr. Ruth J. Simmons | 10:30–11:30 a.m.

A highlight of the day will be a featured lecture by Dr. Ruth J. Simmons, a 1967 Dillard graduate who made history as the first African American president of an Ivy League university when she became president of Brown University.

Dr. Simmons will deliver ADC’s inaugural Paula A. Cox Lecture, exploring essential skills and new strategies for teaching and learning in a global context. Dr. Simmons has also served as president of Smith College and Prairie View A&M University and was honored with the 2026 Harvard Radcliffe Medal.

The lecture is named in honor of the Honorable Paula A. Cox, former Premier of Bermuda, who has served as ADC Board Chair since the organization’s founding in 2014 and is stepping down this year after more than a decade of leadership.

Preparing Citizens of the World

Under the theme “Preparing Citizens of the World: New Ways of Teaching, Learning and Believing,” the full-day program will bring together high school, middle school, college and university educators for workshops and sessions focused on teaching and learning through an African diaspora lens.

Programming will include the College Board’s AP Capstone Seminar, student recruitment and administrative support, planning and skills development, and approaches to teaching English.

October 10, 2026 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Dr. Ruth J. Simmons Featured Lecture | 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Dillard University | 2601 Gentilly Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70122

Registration is limited to AP Seminar teachers and other educators. Space is limited.