Exciting Visit to Savannah: Keshia Knight Pulliam to Speak at National Family Engagement Summit
Savannah, get ready! Emmy-nominated actress, director, entrepreneur, and beloved family cultural icon Keshia Knight Pulliam is making her first trip to our charming city this Wednesday. But don’t expect the former star of The Cosby Show to be here for a film shoot or independent movie project. Instead, Pulliam is in town to inspire and empower as the keynote speaker for the 2024 National Family Engagement Summit.
A Summit Focused on Community and Family Engagement
The National Family Engagement Summit is all about bringing together educators, administrators, parent coordinators, and practitioners who work closely with families to tackle the complex problems facing our communities. This year’s summit promotes the idea that there truly is strength in unity, which aligns perfectly with Pulliam’s motto that “It takes a village to raise a child.”
Pulliam, being a mother of two and passionate youth education advocate, believes that the influences and relationships children encounter significantly shape their development. “Who you welcome in and who you trust in your village is imperative to your child’s development,” she emphasizes, showing her genuine commitment to community collaboration.
From the Stage to the Community: Pulliam’s Journey
Pulliam’s journey into community engagement began after she completed her sociology degree at Spelman College. Understanding that age 11 marks a critical point in children’s lives when they start figuring out their identities and how they fit into the world, she felt compelled to connect with this age group. Her aim? To reach out before these kids might pick up negative behaviors that could stick with them.
Over the past 15 years, she has spearheaded what is now recognized as the Kizzy Foundation. Originally launched as a summer camp for young girls aged 11-16, the foundation has blossomed into a broader initiative. It now includes workshops and collaborative dinners with the Atlanta Mission. Guess what? They’re planning to get back to in-person activities and expand to include programming for boys in 2025, aiming to empower youth globally to become the leaders of tomorrow!
The Role of Schools and Parents
Pulliam knows how important schools are in children’s lives, considering that they spend as much, if not more, time there than at home, especially in middle and high school. As a dedicated “school mom,” she insists that communication between parents and educators is vital. “I think it’s a two-way street,” she says, emphasizing that both parties need to work together to create opportunities for children.
An Interactive Experience at the Summit
When it comes to her keynote speech, Pulliam has something special planned. Instead of delivering a traditional monologue, she envisions a collaborative “fireside chat.” She wants an engaging exchange with attendees, breaking down barriers to foster dialogue rather than simply being a “talking head.” Pulliam believes real learning happens through shared stories and discussions. “As you learn, so shall you teach, and as you teach, so shall you learn,” is one of her favorite sayings reflecting this philosophy.
The summit is packed with valuable learning opportunities, offering over 50 informative sessions. Some intriguing topics include “A Matter of Perspective – Family & School Partnerships through the Eyes of Immigrant Families” and “Empowering Families: Building Resilience in the Face of Housing Insecurity.” This is a prime chance to gain insights and network with like-minded individuals.
Details About the Summit
When: October 9 – 11
Where: Marriott Savannah Riverfront, 100 General McIntosh Blvd., Savannah, Georgia
Register: [Registration link]
So, mark your calendars and prepare to soak up some wisdom from Keshia Knight Pulliam and other speakers at this enlightening event. Savannah, let’s come together to support our families and build stronger communities!
