This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Transcending Poverty & Transforming Communities

Stephen Black studied American History at the University of Pennsylvania, receiving his Bachelor’s degree in 1993, magna cum laude, and attended Yale Law School, graduating in 1997. Following law school, Black moved to Birmingham, became involved in public affairs and practiced law at Maynard, Cooper and Gale. He spent a year serving as an assistant to the Governor, researching policy issues and economic development projects. Leaving the Governor’s Office in 2001, he returned to Maynard, Cooper and Gale. In 2004, Black was appointed to the University of Alabama faculty, and was asked to create, and then direct, a new Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility. Also in 2004, he founded Impact Alabama: A Student Service Initiative; he currently serves as its President and Board Chairman. In 2013, Chancellor Robert E. Witt asked Black to serve as Special Advisor to The University of Alabama Chancellor for Outreach and Community Engagement.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)