Distinguished Speaker Series

Ilyasah Shabazz is an inspirational role model and advocate for “youth” and “women and girl” empowerment. Her lifework is devoted to helping others find inner strength and purpose. While she is frequently asked to speak about the legacy of Malcolm X, she shares that it is her mother Dr. Betty Shabazz's wisdom, courage and compassion that guide her. Ilyasah is the author of four award-winning publications, including an NAACP Image Award, among many others.

Ilyasah promotes higher education for at-risk youth, interfaith dialogue to build bridges between cultures for young leaders of the world, and she participates on international humanitarian delegations. She served as a member of the U.S. Delegation that accompanied President Bill Clinton to South Africa to commemorate election of President Nelson Mandela and others.

Ilyasah holds a Master of Science degree in education & human resource development from Fordham University and a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from SUNY New Paltz.  She is currently an adjunct professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York City.