St. Louis, MO (June 19, 2005) - The world-class Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center at the University of Missouri ?St. Louis (UMSL) is making St. Louis history by creating the first speaker series dedicated entirely to the voices of African-American public figures. The VISION Speakers Series will bring prominent personalities Spike Lee, Montel Williams, and Jackie Joyner-Kersee to St. Louis to share their stories of personal triumph as well as their views and insight on contemporary America.

The VISION Speakers Series is a huge milestone, not just in the growth and development of the Touhill and its ability to bring impressive, powerful performances to St. Louis, but in its symbolization of a progressive change in content and shape of speaker series in St. Louis and the country.

The 2005-2006 VISION Speakers Series kicks off in September with critically-acclaimed film director, producer, writer, and actor Spike Lee, who will give a powerful and penetrating talk, entitled "America Through My Lens." In October Emmy Award-winning TV host Montel Williams will discuss his personal and professional life after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1999. East St. Louis native Jackie Joyner-Kersee will speak in November about her book, A Kind of Grace: The Autobiography of the World's Greatest Female Athlete, and her record-breaking successes as an Olympic athlete and the obstacles she overcame to achieve them.

Unique to the Touhill's VISION Speakers Series is that each speaker will be introduced by a notable African-American leader in the St. Louis community. Each opening speaker will give an introduction as well as tie-in some of their own background as it pertains to the theme of the session. By doing so, the VISION Speakers Series will not only draw on the insights of famous national figures and the role they play on the national scene, but it will also highlight local leaders who are making a difference right here in St. Louis through their professional and personal lives.

Arnold Donald, Chairman of Merisant and longtime distinguished community leader, will speak and introduce Montel Williams' engagement on October 4th. "It is such an honor for me to participate in the VISION Speakers Series, especially by introducing Montel Williams-a very public figure who has heroically forged ahead with his life, career, and dedication and involvement in helping others despite handling a very serious illness in the public spotlight. He has a story of patience, faith, and determination that I think everyone can benefit from," said Mr. Donald. "I firmly believe the Touhill is breaking ground with the presentation of the VISION Speakers Series. It is innovative and will emphasize the impact of African-Americans on American life and culture, yet address issues and challenges that affect everyone, regardless of heritage."

David Steward, founder and Chairman of World Wide Technology, Inc., will introduce Jackie Joyner-Kersee on November 8. "I applaud the Touhill for developing the VISION Speakers Series and am looking forward to participating in this significant occasion," stated Steward. "Jackie Joyner-Kersee's persistence in achieving her remarkable accomplishments is something we can all learn from."

Not only will the VISION Speaker Series provide an ongoing platform each year for influential African-Americans, but it will also strengthen the ties between the Touhill and the students, faculty, and staff of UMSL with the larger St. Louis community.

VISION Speakers Series Calendar

Who: Spike Lee, "America Through My Lens"
When: 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, September 13th
Where: Anheuser-Busch Performance Hall, Touhill Performing Arts Center
Tickets on Sale: Subscription-now; Individual-August 15th
Single Ticket Prices: $40/35/30

Who: Montel Williams, "Overcoming the Odds"
When: 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 4th
Where: Anheuser-Busch Performance Hall, Touhill Performing Arts Center
Tickets on Sale: Subscription-now; Individual-August 15th
Single Ticket Prices: $35/30/25

Who: Jackie Joyner-Kersee, "A Kind of Grace: The Autobiography of the World's Greatest Female Athlete"
When: 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 8th
Where: Anheuser-Busch Performance Hall, Touhill Performing Arts Center
Tickets on Sale: Subscription-now; Individual-August 15th
Single Ticket Prices: $30/25/20

Tickets for all Touhill performances may be purchased over the phone, online, by mail, or in person at the Ticket Office. The Ticket Office is open Monday through Fridays from 10am to 6pm. The Ticket Office is also open at least two hours prior to all performances and remains open through intermission. The Ticket Office opens at noon for Saturday performances.

Phone: 314-516-4949 Toll-Free: 866-516-4949 Online: www.touhill.org