Unlocking Success Through History with Joseph Holland '78, MA'79

Come join alum Joseph Holland for a one-of-a-kind gathering that will captivate not only history buffs but anyone seeking actionable precepts for success in life. Holland will be offering insights from his new book, "Make Your Own History: Timeless Truths From Black American Trailblazers." His writing is an account of 120 mostly unsung heroes as well as a different telling of the American story through the lens of ideals and virtues. The event will include a discussion of the book's inspirational themes and Q&A, which will be particularly useful for young adult alumni in search of professional/personal advancement and for the more seasoned alumni seeking strategy and conviction to navigate to the next level. 

"Joseph Holland deserves our thanks for this creatively written and inspiring chronicle of the achievements of Black trailblazers throughout American history. . . . Using thoughtful and creative vignettes and revealing an impressive historical range, Holland creates an informative narrative . . . whereby "vigorous virtues" often ingrained into daily life and through example, inspired greatness and recognition in the midst of the challenges posed by the vicissitudes of race, class, and place in America."

*This event will be co-sponsored by the Cornell Black Alumni Association

Joseph H. Holland is an author, attorney and All-American with decades of experience serving the community. Holland has either lived and/or worked in Harlem for forty years. He has operated a Harlem-based real estate law practice and used his management skills to build commercial enterprises and expand employment opportunities in Harlem. He was instrumental in establishing an American Express Travel Office, a Ben & Jerry's ice cream parlor, a Body Shop retail store, and Harkhomes, a homeless shelter whose residents found work in these businesses. Holland has been active as a writer throughout his career; his sixth nonfiction book — "Make Your Own History: Timeless Truths From Black American Trailblazers" — was published in October 2023. Holland has served in government in several capacities, including New York State Housing Commissioner. A graduate of Cornell University, where he earned a B.A. and M.A., Holland followed in his father Jerome's footsteps and became an All-American football player. Holland has served as a member of Cornell's Board of Trustees since 1988. He holds his J.D. degree from Harvard Law School.

6:00 pm reception; 6:30 pm lecture. Advance registrations required.