In Collaboration with Story Crossroads

Our project, Storytelling Pairings: A Blended Celebration of American Legacy, honors twelve influential Americans whose lives and contributions helped shape our nation. Through paired presentations, we spotlight both Black and Caucasian leaders whose stories reflect courage, creativity, justice, innovation, and lasting cultural impact.

This event features: Duke Ellington (portrayed by George Brown), recognizing his influence as a jazz bandleader and composer who shaped American music; paired with Irving Berlin (portrayed by Karl Behling), celebrating his contributions as a composer of iconic American standards.