"Inspirational and absolutely generous with his time and energy - perfect for our community!"
So reads an evaluation of one of Newark, New Jersey mayor Cory Booker's presentations.
We at The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties are pleased to announce that Mayor Booker will bring his enthusiasm to our area as the inaugural presenter for our Leadership Speaker Series. He will speak about "How to Change the World with Your Bare Hands" at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, October 19, 2011 at the Stanley Center for the Arts. "Many people may be hearing the name 'Cory Booker' for the first time, but it won't be the last. He has been the mayor of Newark, New Jersey since 2006 and has become a superstar.
His commitment to education, reducing violent crime by 40 percent, and investing $40 million in the transformation of city parks through a public/private partnership are among his bold and innovative actions. Degrees from prestigious universities begin to tell his story, but his achievements in Newark have made him an iconic mayor - a mayor to watch," said Mary Lyons Bradley, Foundation Trustee and event committee member.
Widely considered a rising star on the American political landscape, Booker was elected mayor of Newark for two consecutive terms. Under his leadership, Newark's mission is "to set a national standard for urban transformation by marshalling its resources to achieve security, economic abundance and an environment that is nurturing and empowering for individuals and families."
Graphic designer Michelle McCarrick Truett also serves on the planning committee. She said, "I jumped at the chance to help with the Cory Booker event. I'm particularly looking forward to helping with outreach in our community to assure that as many people as possible are able to come see him speak - his message and attitude of rolling up your sleeves, getting involved and being brave is imperative in helping any community reach a new level."
The series Brick City on the Sundance Channel chronicles the efforts of Mayor Booker and the residents of Newark as they work together to realize the city's mission. Cory Booker earned his B.A. and M.A. from Stanford University, a B.A. in Modern History from Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar and completed his law degree at Yale University.
The Leadership Speaker Series is sponsored by the Corporate Partners Program of The Community Foundation. Look for details on purchasing tickets for this event in the spring.
