backstory: Tonight’s lecture
As many of you read tonight’s backstory, the 2025 Fred Wilson Lecture in Global Black Studies is already underway. Some of you are here.
The lecture series is a collaboration with our partners in the Purchase College Global Black Studies and Media Studies programs to honor and celebrate Black makers and thinkers. These annual lectures bring individuals who shape our cultural and creative landscapes to campus to engage with students and our broader community.
Tonight’s speaker is Dr. Zalika U. Ibaorimi from The Ohio State University, a faculty member and antidisciplinary artist known as N.H.I. Fred Wilson, who was honored as our Passionate Artist in 2024 and is now a member of the Friends Board, is also here. It’s exciting to see our students meet and interact with such respected creators.
I want to extend my gratitude to Purchase alumni Amy Helsel ’85 and her husband, Jeremy Swerling ’83, for their generous support of the series. Their gift honors the legacy of Amy’s father, Stanley, whose lifelong dedication to art and education continues to inspire. We could not do what we do without support from our community. Thank you all.
Tracy Fitzpatrick
Director, Neuberger Museum of Art
