What Does “A Dream Deferred” Mean to College Board? A History of How This Conference Came to Be
The phrase “A Dream Deferred” resonates deeply within the College Board community, symbolizing the collective aspirations and the relentless pursuit of progress. But what does it truly mean, and how did this powerful concept evolve into the cornerstone of our annual conference?
The Origin of “A Dream Deferred”
The term “A Dream Deferred” originates from Langston Hughes’s poignant poem “Harlem,” which explores the consequences of postponed dreams. Hughes’s words capture the essence of unfulfilled aspirations and the simmering potential within every deferred dream. This powerful imagery has inspired countless individuals and movements, including our own.
The Birth of the Conference
The idea for A Dream Deferred™: The Future of African American Education conference was born out of a desire to create a platform where educators, students, and community leaders could come together to address the challenges and opportunities in education, particularly for underrepresented groups. The founders of the conference, driven by a shared vision of equity and excellence in education, sought to create an event that would not only highlight the issues but also celebrate the successes and innovations in the field.
The inaugural A Dream Deferred conference took place in June 2005 in Los Angeles, California, bringing together a diverse group of participants from across the country. The meeting was organized amid highly evocative conversations surrounding the 50th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision. Since its inception, A Dream Deferred has gathered professionals from throughout the nation who provide insights and ideas to guide us as we continue to advocate for African American students. Now the event features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and workshops focused on a wide range of topics, from policy and advocacy to classroom practices and community engagement. The kickoff event, held in the evening of the first day, sets the tone for the conference, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and shared vision.
Over the years, A Dream Deferred conference has grown in both size and impact. Each year, the conference attracts more attendees, offering a rich program that includes sessions on the latest research, innovative practices, and inspiring stories from the field. The conference has become a vital space for networking, learning, and inspiration, helping to drive positive change in education.
As we look to the future, A Dream Deferred conference remains committed to its founding principles. We continue to strive for a world where every dream, no matter how deferred, has the opportunity to be realized. Our call for proposals for the 2026 conference will begin in mid-May 2025, and we encourage all those passionate about education to join us in this ongoing journey.
A Dream Deferred is more than just a conference; it is a movement. It represents the hopes and dreams of countless individuals dedicated to making a difference in education. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain steadfast in our commitment to turning deferred dreams into reality.
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