The one-day conference boasts an impressive panel of guests consisting of Louisiana Superintendent of Education, Paul Pastorek, Esq. and Obama Advisor and Howard University Dean of Education, Dr. Leslie T. Fenwick.  This year’s conference theme is: “Creating High Performing Schools for Underserved Populations: The Role of HBCUs.” Dialogue will focus on improving teacher education efforts for minorities by bringing together university faculty and the elementary and secondary education community.  Additional guests will include current, former, and future educators.  
 
Haynes was a longtime education and civil rights activist and was a former member of the Louisiana Board of regents.  He played a key role in the development of the Louisiana Colored Teachers Association (later named the Louisiana Education Association) and became executive director until the organization merged with the Louisiana Association of Educators.  He was also instrumental in the development of the Louisiana Interscholastic Athletic and Literary Organization, in addition to organizing the first Head Start program in Louisiana.
  
A respected educator, Haynes was one of three African Americans appointed to serve on the bi-racial committee that advised the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board on desegregation.  He was a force in the integration of institutions of higher education, thus allowing for the desegregation of higher education in Louisiana.  Prior to his death in 1997, the J. K. Haynes Charter School opened in Baton Rouge.
 
“It is most fitting to bestow honor upon the memory of J.K. Haynes through this annual conference,” said System President, Kassie Freeman.  “Known for laying a strong foundation for educators both past and present, J.K. Haynes is one of the most highly respected educators known throughout the state and nation, he truly is a champion in education for all.”
 
Registration for the conference is free and spots are still available. Visit www.sus.edu and click on the J.K. Haynes Conference Registration link.  For additional information, please call, 225.771.3915.