2023 Celebration

Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration

MONDAY, JANUARY 16, 2023

Grand River Center 500 Bell Street, Dubuque, Iowa
7:00 a.m. Breakfast 7:30 a.m. Celebration

View a PDF of the event program.


2023 MLK Celebration Speaker Antonio MouzonDeep Change:
Rediscovering Connection

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:


Antonio Mouzon moved to Dubuque, Iowa from Baumholder, Germany in 2006. He is a first-generation college graduate who pursued higher education on a leap of faith through the influences of educators and other role models. Antonio reformed the generational expectations within his family and was the first to receive a high school diploma, bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in communications with a focus on emotional intelligence. Antonio is now pursuing his Ph.D. in higher education, with a focus on social justice and equity, positive psychology, and leadership development.

Antonio is an instructor of personal empowerment at the University of Dubuque and has made it his mission to helping people explore self-awareness and understanding the power of their beliefs. Through this practice, he strives to empower people to break through mental and emotional barriers that can interfere with building meaningful relationships.

In addition to his teaching role, he is vice president of the Black Doctoral Student Association at Azusa Pacific University and created the Blackademics affinity group for University of Dubuque, Clarke University and Loras College undergraduate students. This group promotes intellectual and emotional growth for Black students, faculty and staff while serving as a safe space for members to critically explore topics related to social identity, equity, inclusion, and leadership.

Beyond UD, Antonio is a national speaker and trainer on these topics. His past work includes trainings with the Dubuque Police Department, Dubuque Community School District and various organizations locally and nationally. Use of inclusive practices and emotional intelligence, Antonio strives to inspire others to create meaningful and effective relationships that strengthen connections across race, gender, ethnicity or culture.

Antonio’s energy and dynamic approach help formulate his unique ability to help create transformation within his institution, community and in the lives of those around him. He is very passionate about helping people reach their full potential and strives every day to be the change he wishes to see in the world.