The Black Men's Initiative Forum this year's theme of "Building Capacity: Are You Equipped?"

MADISON - The Black Men's Initiative Forum on Friday, Feb. 24 and Saturday, Feb. 25 will help develop strong leadership through programs embracing this year's theme of "Building Capacity: Are You Equipped?"

The event, is made possible through a partnership with the Wisconsin Association of Black Men (WABM) and the UW-Madison Office of the Vice Provost for Diversity and Climate, begins with a session Friday, Feb. 24 in the Phillips Lounge of Ogg Hall, 835 W. Dayton St., from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Nationally known scholar on black male achievement, Shaun Harper, associate professor and director of the Center for the Study of Race and Equity in Education at the University of Pennsylvania, will provide the keynote message for the program.

"With the challenges that we face in our communities regarding male youth of color, I am glad that we have created this space for individuals from across our community to share, learn, and grow with one another," says Damon A. Williams, UW-Madison vice provost and chief diversity officer. "There has never been a more imperative time to plant and nurture the seeds of leadership in our community and we are glad to partner with members of the student and Madison community in this way."

Leadership for the event is provided by Williams' office, WABM and representatives of the 100 Black Men of Madison. This year's forum will continue into a second day of seminars on developing personal leadership, accountability, character, and personal integrity on Saturday, Feb. 25 in the AT&T Lounge of the Pyle Center, 702 Langdon St. from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

Shaun R. Harper

"This year WABM decided to develop additional training that addresses the leadership needs and goals defined in past forums," says Shawn Harris of the Wisconsin Association of Black Men's leadership team. "Our long-term intent is to provide intergenerational mentorship for developing strong black male leaders among college men, expand our reach to learn from our experienced mentors while reaching back for younger men to follow." Although this event is targeted toward the concerns and challenges of African American males, the event is open to anyone in the community, regardless of background. Registration is available here: - Friday and Saturday sessions: http://www.ohrd.wisc.edu/reg/catalog_course_detail.asp?course_key=37198 -Friday only: http://www.ohrd.wisc.edu/reg/catalog_course_detail.asp?course_key=37653

-Saturday only: http://www.ohrd.wisc.edu/reg/catalog_course_detail.asp?course_key=37655

### FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2/17/12 CONTACT: Valeria Davis, (608) 890-3079, vadavis2@wisc.edu BLACK MEN'S INITIATIVE FORUM SET FOR FEB. 24-25