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As we get closer to announcing full program details for BbWorld 2010 in Orlando, we have some exciting news to share. Greg Mortenson – bestselling author, education activist and advocate – will serve as the event’s opening keynote speaker.

In Three Cups of Tea, Greg tells about how his failed attempt to climb Pakistan’s K2 in 1993 brought him to a village in a remote mountain region of Pakistan where he observed students writing their school lessons with sticks. From that experience, Greg has dedicated his life to promoting education and literacy programs, especially for girls, in remote mountain regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. 

An advocate for education, Greg co-founded the nonprofit Central Asia Institute, an organization that promotes education in regions where there are few or no opportunities.  He also launched the Pennies for Peace campaign, which educates students on the positive impact they can have – on a global scale – by donating one penny at a time, opening doors to literacy in impoverished countries.

To date, Mortenson has established or significantly supported 131 schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan, which provide education to over 58,000 children – including 48,000 girls – where few education opportunities have existed before. His most recent book, Stones into Schools also debuted on the New York Times bestseller list.

 We are very excited to have Greg join us in July at BbWorld, where he will share stories about his efforts to promote peace and opportunity, and where he’ll discuss the role we all can play in supporting education. The keynote will take place on Wednesday, July 14 from 8:30-9:45am, followed by a book signing for BbWorld attendees.

Hear It Here First!

We’re sharing the news of Mortenson’s keynote first on Blackboard Blogs, Facebook and Twitter. Leading up to BbWorld we plan to share additional news and updates on our social media channels, including a few social media-only specials. So if you’re not already, make sure to follow us on Twitter and Facebook and bookmark Blackboard Blogs to keep up with news on the event.