FHSU University Relations
In its commitment to supporting the mental well-being of students from pre-kindergarten through college, the FHSU College of Education will present the Olliff Family Educational Symposium Tuesday, Feb. 4. This virtual event will be from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
The symposium will feature a keynote address by Hotep, disruptive innovator and Congressional award-winning author, widely known for his proactive, “tough love” approach to education.
Titled “Building Bridges Through Positive Engagement,” the presentation explores how, in struggling schools, negativity can often become the loudest voice in the room. When it does, the toxicity spreads throughout the entire building, creating a climate that is stricken with low morale and poor performance on all levels. This high-energy workshop will explain how this condition starts, why it persists and how to change it to bridge community involvement/ engagement.
Hotep, MBA, PMI, is a 15-year master teacher who has developed a reputation for requesting the most troubled students and transforming them into willing participants in their own education.
Hotep is the founder of MAKE A WAY Consulting, where he helps schools across the U.S. create a climate of celebration and a culture of accountability.
He is also the creator, writer and producer of the popular new anime brand, Black Lion and Cubs. Hotep’s profound work has earned him nominations for the Presidential Citizen’s Award and as a CNN Hero.
The virtual event is free of charge and is open for registration, and interested individuals can secure their spots by visiting https://www.fhsu.edu/olliff-family-educational-symposium/schedule-workshops/
About the Olliff Family Educational Symposium:
The symposium began in 2017 and was later named after the Olliff Family in honor of the late Darel Olliff and his wife, Shirley. As a third-generation funeral director in Phillipsburg, Darel developed a passion for mental health. His son, Dr. Kenton Olliff – a long-time employee of FHSU – had worked with his dad for several years before going into teaching.
To ensure the symposium would be offered every year, Kenton committed in 2019 to financially support this important event along with his mother; his wife, Carol Solko-Olliff; and the Olliff family. Kenton, a licensed clinical professional and addiction counselor, is an associate professor of Advanced Education Programs at FHSU, where Carol is the director of International Student Services.