Making families stronger is focus of Feb. 17 Black History Month event

Ken Bevel

"Strengthening Families and Communities One Family at a Time" is the theme of Friday's Black History Month event at Florida State University. Featuring a keynote address by U.S. Marine Corps veteran, actor, inspirational film producer and motivational speaker Ken Bevel, the program is free and open to the public.

"Black History Month provides us the opportunity to reflect, honor and engage in dialogue about the various contributions to our country and society made by the black and African-American community," said Juan Guardia, director of the FSU Center for Multicultural Affairs, which is co-hosting the event. The center seeks to encourage greater communication and collaboration among all members of the campus community.

"Strengthening Families and Communities One Family at a Time" will be held:

In addition to the FSU Center for Multicultural Affairs, program co-hosts are the Florida Department of Children and Families, Heart Gallery North Florida, National Save the Family Now Movement Inc. and Explore Adoption.

After 20 years of active service in the U.S. Marine Corps, including tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, Bevel retired to serve in the ministry. Married with two children, he may be recognized by his role as Lt. Michael Simmons in the 2008 inspirational movie "Fireproof" and for his role as Nathan Hayes in the film "Courageous," the story of four men who are struggling with the challenges of fatherhood. Bevel has been interviewed on numerous TV shows, including "Fox and Friends" and "Huckabee."

To learn more, contact Guardia at (850) 644-2450 or jguardia@admin.fsu.edu.

15 February 2012