Speaking

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The keynote addresses three unique perspectives about the value of life and the definition of education following economic shifts in the City of Buffalo. First, Howard-Bostic introduced personal experiences and help from local leaders in Buffalo as political statements to shape how community leaders can re-define education strategies for the current generation. Second, Howard-Bostic shared a critical perspective about the historical production of materials and ideas. Third, she discussed behavioral changes across generations (Baby Boomers, Generations X, Y, and Z) to interpret the value of life and definitions of education across generations.

For the past 45 years, we have endured the effects of a transition from an economy heavily invested in manufacturing to a more technology diversified economy. Institutional change (media, economy, education, and family) can impact how city residents exist in this world. The Greatest liberator is the education system. Leaders need to work together and pool resources to invest in our community. We must reeducate and reinvigorate residents to enhance reasons to live together, and love ourselves and each other. However, we work as a team by respecting the strengths of each generation. We need respect for self and authority, work ethic, and determination like the Baby Boomers. We need the ability to think critically and outside of the box like Generation X. We need the confidence, teamwork, drive, and ability to challenge and create change like Generation Y. We also need the intelligence, ability to access information, and ability to work with all human kind like Generation Z (Howard-Bostic, 2017).