Amistad captain to speak as Coastal's Kimbel Lecturer
In 1991, Pinkney, a world-class sailor, became the first African-American to sail solo around the world's five great capes with Project Commitment. Pinkney is a U.S. Navy veteran and U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain.
Pinkney was born and raised in a single-parent household in Chicago and educated in the Chicago public schools. Before devoting his career to sailing, he was a marketing executive for Revlon and other cosmetic companies.
Pinkney's work as a mariner and educator has been recognized by the President of the United States, as well as governors, legislators, mayors and foreign leaders. The story of his exploits was read into the congressional record by Sen. Edward Kennedy. Pinkney was also the subject of an award-winning cable TV special narrated by Bill Cosby titled "The Incredible Voyage of Bill Pinkney."
A key component of Pinkney's solo trip around the world in 1991 was to provide lessons in math, science, geography and social studies for more than 30,000 students across the country. This was made possible through the use of a satellite transponder, computer downlinks, videotapes and high seas telephone calls. Since returning from his legendary voyage, he has addressed more than 85,000 students in more than 700 schools across the country and internationally.
Pinkney is past commodore of the Belmont Yacht Club in Chicago; member of the New York Yacht Club; member of the Board of Directors of the American Sail Training Association; trustee of Mystic Seaport Museum (America's largest maritime museum); and a member of the Board of Directors of the Chicago Maritime Society.
The Kimbel Distinguished Lecturer Series is sponsored by the William A. and L. Maud Kimbel Distinguished Lecturer Series Endowment Fund. The purpose of the series is to present programs promoting an appreciation for the intellectual values in broad social issues, religion, geopolitics and the arts.
For ticket information, contact the Wheelwright Box Office at 349-2502.