Jackson Free Press

If you ever need pointers on being a rock star academian, Cornel West is the only man you want to ask. He is Lauded in academic circles as one of the foremost authorities on race, class and gender in this post-1960s Civil Rights Movement. The professor, who earned his doctorate from Princeton University, now teaches at his alma mater in the departments of African American studies and religious studies.

West has authored or co-authored more than 10 books. Most notable among them is "Democracy Matters: Winning the Fight Against Imperialism" and his 1993 book, "Race Matters," which jettisoned him beyond the academic world into the public's consciousness.

Popular culture adores him, too. West makes regular appearances on "Real Time with Bill Maher," has made cameos in films and documentaries, and artists--visual and performing--cite him in their works. And then there's his hip-hop band, The Cornel West Theory. While he's not a member of the group, he endorses it. But don't be mistaken: West has the lyrical skill. Among his published works are spoken-word albums "Street Knowledge" and "Never Forget: A Journey of Revelations." He's also featured on John Mellencamp's most recent album, "Rural Route 7609."

"You can't lead the people, if you don't love the people. You can't save the people, if you don't serve the people" West says. The intellectual giant's popular quote even appears on a line of Starbucks coffee mugs.

West speaks to the people this evening, Feb. 17, on Jackson State's campus at the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center at 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 601-979-1457.