N.C. A&T to Kick Off Second Town & Gown Celebration ‘An Evening with Sheryl Lee Ralph’

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (April 19, 2023) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University will kick off its second Town & Gown celebration Thursday, April 27, at 6 p.m. in Paul Robeson Theatre as it welcomes Emmy-award winning star of ABC’s “Abbott Elementary,” singer, producer and activist Sheryl Lee Ralph.

During the event, “An Evening with Sheryl Lee Ralph,” the actress will discuss her life, career and new book, “Diva 2.0: 12 Life Lessons From Me For You!” Students will get a personal look into Ralph’s career as a performer as she expresses how she navigates through life with courage, wit and strength.

N.C. A&T’s Town & Gown celebration was established to identify and celebrate the arts and the relationship between the university and the surrounding Piedmont Triad community, which A&T has served for more than 130 years. Ralph will also be the guest of honor Friday, April 28, at an invitation-only dinner, followed by a performance of “Dreamgirls” by A&T theatre students. During her visit to campus, she also will hold master classes with theatre and music students.

Ralph is a staple in the entertainment industry, with an acclaimed career spanning three decades. Her background includes bringing characters to life on screen, performing on Broadway, producing, landing the title of national best-selling author and engaging in deeply-rooted philanthropic endeavors. In addition to winning an Emmy, she has been recognized as a Tony Award nominee, NAACP Image Award nominee and Independent Spirit Award winner.

Currently, Ralph shines on the hit ABC comedy series, “Abbott Elementary” as Barbara, a longtime and respected teacher. She is also known for her role as Dee Mitchell, starring in more than 100 episodes of “Moesha” opposite Grammy Award winner Brandy.

This event is for students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends. Tickets are free and available on a first come, first serve basis at the University Ticket Office in Brown Hall.