Dr. Michael L. Lomax to Speak at Lane College Spring Convocation

Lane College is pleased to announce that the keynote speaker for the Spring Convocation will be Dr. Michael L. Lomax, President and CEO of The United Negro College Fund (UNCF). The event will take place on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., in the Chambers-McClure Academic Center. The purpose of the Spring Convocation is to officially open the spring semester.

Dr. Lomax, a distinguished leader in education and civic engagement, has dedicated his career to advancing opportunities for underrepresented students. As the head of UNCF, the nation’s largest minority education organization, Dr. Lomax has overseen the distribution of over $4 billion in scholarships and educational support, benefiting more than 200,000 students.

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Lomax to Lane College for our Spring Convocation. His lifelong dedication to education and his transformative leadership at UNCF serve as an inspiration to our students and faculty,” said Dr. Donald W. Comer, President of Lane College. “We look forward to his insights and the positive impact his presence will bring to our campus community.”

Dr. Lomax’s academic journey began at Morehouse College, graduating at 16 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. He earned a Master of Arts in English Literature from Columbia University and a Ph.D. in American and African American Literature from Emory University. His career in education includes teaching positions at Morehouse and Spelman Colleges and leadership roles at Dillard University and the National Faculty.

Dr. Lomax’s civic contributions in Atlanta are equally impressive. He served as director of research and special assistant to Mayor Maynard Holbrook Jackson, established the Office of Cultural Affairs, and was the first African American elected as chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. His efforts have left a lasting impact on the community, including the founding of the Fulton County Arts Council and the National Black Arts Festival.

Under Dr. Lomax’s leadership, UNCF has launched initiatives such as the Institute for Capacity Building, which strengthens Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and has forged partnerships to advance HBCUs with Congress and the Department of Education. His numerous honors include appointments to the President’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and service on several prestigious boards.

Dr. Lomax resides in Atlanta and is a proud father and grandfather. His commitment to education and community service continues to inspire future generations.