Author, Radio Host Jerald Payne to Lead Mental Health Discussion at UCM for Black History Month

By Sam Schleicher, February 17, 2020

WARRENSBURG, MO – In recognition of Black History Month, the University of Central Missouri Center for Multiculturalism and Inclusivity will host speaker Jerald Payne, an author, therapist, social worker, and co-host on the radio show Finally Free with Delores Jones, for a presentation titled "Mental Health in the Black Community" on Monday, Feb. 24 in the Elliott Student Union ballroom. All students, faculty, staff and the general public are welcome to attend.

Sign-in for the event will begin at 5:30 p.m., and the presentation will begin at 6 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions for discussion prior to Payne's presentation.

Following the presentation, Payne will host a group discussion for black, male students at 7:30 p.m. Attendees not participating in this discussion are encouraged to take part in "Black Excellence" trivia, which will be hosted in the Union Cinema and will include refreshments and prizes.

A community educator and presenter on aspects of mental health, Payne is one of the founders and board members for the Metropolitan Association of African American Psychotherapists, and is also on the board for the LEGACY Foundation, an organization that provides entertainment, education and mentoring to inner-city youth. His first book, “Therapist's Notes,” was released in May of 2019.

The Center for Multiculturalism and Inclusivity at UCM works to create a campus atmosphere where people of all backgrounds, identities and perspectives feel welcome, secure and included. The Center helps connect underrepresented students to the resources, organizations and student support services they need to thrive as UCM students and future professionals.

For more information, contact the UCM Center for Multiculturalism and Inclusivity or Dr. Lover Chancler at chancler@ucmo.edu.