Come join us March 13-15, as we kick off Hampton University's 41st Annual Conference on the Black Family. Our theme this year is Health of the Black Family: How to Add Years to Your Life and Life to Your Years, presented by the School of Nursing.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA, 2019), heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death for all Americans. More alarming is that the risk of developing heart disease or stroke is higher for African-Americans. "Compared to the general population, African Americans are disproportionately affected by diabetes; 13.2% of all African Americans aged 20 years or older have diagnosed diabetes" (American Diabetes Association, 2014). The ADA (2014) also noted that African Americans are 1.7 times more likely to have diabetes. The risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and stroke increases in obese individuals and for growing children who consume high fat and sugary foods.

This year's Conference on the Black Family seeks to educate and engage the Hampton University and Hampton Roads community in meaningful dialogue and activities designed to increase awareness and promote health of the participants. The conference will place an emphasis on strengthening the Black Family structure in seven of the nine dimensions of health to include physical, emotional, financial, intellectual, spiritual, environmental, and social.

Join us as at our "Home by the Sea", as we educate and equip participants through renowned keynote speakers, workshops, health screenings, and physical fitness strategies designed to equip the participants with information for healthy living. The opening Ceremony Keynote speaker, Dr. L.D. Britt, a renowned Surgeon and health disparities researcher is the Brickhouse Professor and Chairman of the Department of surgery, Eastern Virginia Medical School. Dr. Trenace Williams a passionate and energetic preacher, teacher, and psalmist is the closing luncheon speaker. Other guest speakers include scholars like Dr. Safiya George, HIV researcher; Attorney Veronica Williams, and Dr. Mack Bonner of the American Diabetes Association.

Conference sessions will focus on topics like oral health, financial planning, emotional wellness, nutrition and wellness, child health and factors that contribute to healthy living. The conference will conclude on Friday with a health fair, which includes activities such as line dancing, CPR/first aid demonstrations, health screenings and so much more. As you can see the conference will benefit all members of the family and our community.

Sign up NOW and be sure not to miss this insightful and influential event!

2019 Conference on the Black Family Schedule