Seminole State Speaker Series to feature world-renowned astrophysicist

The Seminole State College of Florida Speaker Series will host world-renowned astrophysicist, Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi, as he presents the topic, “Reach for the Stars, No Matter What the Odds.” This free event will be held on Wednesday, April 5, from 7 – 9 p.m. in the Fine Arts Concert Hall (building G) at the College’s Sanford/Lake Mary Campus.
Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi, a regular on Discovery Network, Science Channel and National Geographic, is a world-renowned astrophysicist, teacher, inventor and humanitarian. He grew up in impoverished Mississippi and the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans with many of his “role models” involved in the worlds of drugs and crime. Nicknamed “The Gangsta Nerd” many years ago, Dr. Oluseyi embraces this identity as it speaks to his past, present and future, as someone who believes in the power of passion and dreams.
Currently, Dr. Oluseyi has five degrees, 80 publications including books, scientific and technology publications, more than 11 patents and has received several fellowships, honors and awards.
Dr. Oluseyi’s mission is to pass on knowledge, process and results to the next generation, along the way dispelling the myth of what it takes to be a scientist. In his presentation, he will share his story and his exciting work with the 100 Year Starship Project to help lay the groundwork for the first human mission to a nearby planetary system.
Seating for this free event is first come, first served. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. A Q&A period, reception and a special telescope viewing will immediately follow.
Seminole State’s Speaker Series is co-sponsored by CFE Federal Credit Union. For more information, please visit the Speaker Series website. For a full list of events at Seminole State, please visit the Newsroom calendar.
Related Event: Telescope Viewing
Following Dr. Oluseyi’s presentation, guests are invited to step outside and experience the fascinating world of astronomy while viewing the wonders of the night sky through the planetarium’s telescopes. Weather permitting, enjoy the view from the lawn between buildings G and C. This event is hosted by the Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Planetarium at Seminole State College of Florida. For more information on the Buehler Planetarium, visit the planetarium website.