(GARDNER)--Dr. Crystal Kuykendall, nationally known speaker and president of her own firm K.I.R.K., Inc., will speak to Mount Wachusett Community College students and faculty about "Diversity on Campus," Wed., May 1, 2002, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in room 127.

"Mount Wachusett Community College is committed to supporting the diverse background of all of our students and faculty," said President Daniel M. Asquino. "We are proud to have Dr. Kuykendall join us in this important campus discussion."

K.I.R.K., Inc. was established to provide "Kreative and Innovative Resources for Kids", K.I.R.K. produces audio and video tapes, products, publications, workbooks and learning tools for educators, counselors, administrators and parents. A human relations and education expert, Dr. Kuykendall has gained national recognition for her extensive talents and expertise in promoting problem resolution. Kuykendall has provided leadership and services for a growing national and international constituency.

Crystal's speeches reflect her own unique background replete with personal victories and numerous professional responsibilities. A University Instructor, and Executive Director of the National Alliance of Black School Educators, she has also been Director of Urban & Minority Relations for the National School Boards Association and Director of Marketing for RLA, Inc. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Administration, law degree from Georgetown University and life membership in the NAACP & Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. In 1988, Kuykendall was admitted to the Bar of the District of Columbia.

A former schoolteacher, she has also been a guidance counselor for minority undergraduates and potential high school dropouts. In addition, she has been an instructor in the Black Studies and Sociology Departments of Seton Hall University and in the Education Department of Montclair State University.

A prolific writer and dynamic speaker, Dr. Kuykendall has presented at over 1,000 national and international conferences. She has been a guest lecturer at several universities, and has been a consultant to city and/or school officials, parents, and civic/community groups in over 40 states.

She is the author of two books, Improving Black Student Achievement Through Enhancing Self-Image and From Rage to Hope: Strategies for Reclaiming Black and Hispanic Students. Dr. Kuykendall has also been featured in newspaper articles and on television programs in over two dozen cities.