In The News

Ten years ago, on February 26th, a young Black man—17-year-old Trayvon Martin—was fatally shot in Sanford, Florida while innocently walking back to his dad’s girlfriend’s home. During that walk, he was spotted by George Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch volunteer. Zimmerman believed Martin was acting suspiciously. The two got into an altercation and Trayvon—who was unarmed—was killed. He was 17. (Zimmerman was eventually acquitted of second-degree murder in 2013.) It was a shot heard around the world—sparking the Black Lives Matter movement and igniting a new era in civil rights that continues to grow today. 

As a teacher, educational consultant and parent for 40 years, Dr. Michele Borba has never been more worried for young people than she is about this current generation of kids. Data shows that today’s youth are the loneliest, most stressed and risk-averse on record. Though well-educated, they are failing to launch in real life. So how can we teach them to be mentally strong and more successful?

APB is honored to announce our exclusive representation of Nobel Peace Prize recipient and widely respected Russian journalist Dmitry Muratov. Editor-in-chief of the newspaper Novaya Gazeta, Muratov is a vocal advocate for independent press and is known for investigating abuses of power. Lauded for his passion to safeguard the freedom of expression, Muratov offers unparalleled insights into everything from politics and human rights to the complex issues of the Ukraine and the future relationship between Russia and America.

U.S. Navy Admiral (Ret.) and APB speaker Michelle J. Howard was recently appointed to The Board of Visitors to the U.S. Naval Academy. President Joe Biden announced her appointment to this key role last week. The duty of The Board is to inquire into the state of morale and discipline, the curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods and other matters relating to the academy that the Board decides to consider. The President receives an annual written report of the Board’s findings and recommendations.

One of the most prominent Asian Americans in broadcast news, Juju Chang recently wowed as the headliner at the NASPA Multicultural Institute's event, "Advancing Equity and Inclusive Practice." A premier event known for combining thought-provoking keynotes with challenging educational sessions, the program connects those who are passionate about justice, equity, access, and inclusion in higher education. Sharing her personal story as a member of the AAPI community, Chang empowers listeners to celebrate their authentic selves and helps campuses create more inclusive cultures that are in touch with their students and communities.

Mental health affects our overall health and wellbeing. The pandemic worsened issues on campus for those already struggling with mental health challenges and substance use disorders, while others began experiencing these things for the first time. The rhythm of our lives continues to change as we crave a full return to “normal” student life. Drawing from years of experience and expertise, these speakers offer the answers, tools and insights into becoming more resilient and how to better care for our overall mental wellness as we enter second semester.

New York Times bestselling author and award-winning historian Dr. Keisha N. Blain has just been nominated for an NAACP Image Award and selected as a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award for her latest book, Until I Am Free: Fannie Lou Hamer's Enduring Message to America. 

An excerpt from legendary investigative journalist and APB speaker Carl Bernstein’s newest book was recently featured on CBS News’ website. Bernstein’s memoir, Chasing History: A Kid in the Newsroom (Henry Holt & Co.), which was released Jan. 11, tells the story of his early days as a journalist in the nation’s capital at The Washington Star—the city’s afternoon paper. He was just 16 when he began working as a copy boy. By 19, he was a reporter there.

Every year March marks Women's History Month, a time to celebrate the powerful roles of women throughout history. APB continues to represent a number of speakers on women's issues, from award-winning actresses and activists to journalists, best-selling authors, entrepreneurs and innovative global leaders. Check out some of our most sought-after female voices below. These speakers are available for either in-person or virtual events.

Many of our speakers attribute their opportunities, successes and passion for change to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Founded during the height of the American Civil Rights Movement in 1965, APB is honored to have worked with Dr. King during his lifetime, as well as many other civil rights leaders who shared his vision. Devoted to spreading positive messages about love and equality, our speakers continue to honor Dr. King's legacy. Read their reflections below.