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The public is cordially invited to spend an evening with local writer Kenneth F. Conklin. The author of “Norvel,” Mr. Conklin will present an overview on the remarkable life of Botetourt County native, Norvel Lee.
Tuskegee Airman, heavyweight boxer with the newly integrated D.C. Golden Gloves, member of the U.S. Olympic team, and Howard University student, Norvel Lee was arrested on a September morning in 1948 for taking a seat in the white section of a segregated train going from Covington, VA to Clifton Forge, VA. The resulting court case eventually made its way to the Virginia State Supreme Court, resulting in a landmark civil rights decision.
Meticulously researched, “Norvel” relates the inspiring story of this remarkable man who went on to become the gold medal winner in the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games where he was also voted by the judges to be the outstanding boxer of the Olympics.
Earning several graduate degrees in education, his professional career included becoming a senior officer in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, educator, and businessman. He and his wife, Leslie Jackson Lee, were prominent mentors and sponsors of young people in the greater Washington, D.C. area where they advocated for educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth.
Mr. Conklin, a native of Los Angeles, lives in Botetourt County. While “Norvel” is his first book, his essays have been published in the “Roanoke Times” as well as other publications. Though he has always been a writer, Mr. Conklin made his living in the technology industry as a business development and general management executive. In those roles, he traveled throughout North America, Europe, and Asia, gaining experiences that inform his writing.
Mr. Conklin’s program will conclude with a book signing. Copies of “Norvel” will be available for purchase.
Light refreshments will be provided.