Coker University is proud to host Dr. Sephira Bailey Shuttlesworth, widow of Rev. Fred L. Shuttlesworth, as part of its MLK event on January 16, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Watson Theater. 

The event is sponsored by the Coker Black Alumni Network, The Center for Diversity - Interfaith & Inclusion Education and Student Engagement. 

“In times of uncertainty, assurances from leaders are imperative,” Toschia Moffet Young, CBAN President and Coker Alum, said. “Dr. Shuttlesworth epitomizes the leadership we need in this season of animus and enmity. She spent a considerable portion of her life, health and spirit fighting for equality, as did her husband Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth, who stands among the greats of the Civil Rights Movement.”

Shuttlesworth brings 30+ years of experience as an educator, administrator, trainer and motivational speaker to the event. 

“Coker University is truly honored to have Dr. Sephira Bailey Shuttlesworth speaking on our campus.” Darlene Small, Director of the Center for Diversity, Interfaith & Inclusion Education, said. “Her background and experience in education and Civil Rights are a testament to her strength and courage as she forged not only her own place in our society but created space for others to thrive as well.”

Shuttlesworth has an undergraduate degree in Education from Union University, a Master of Education Degree from the University of Cincinnati and an honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Christian Management from the Global Evangelical Christian College and Seminary. 

She met Rev. Fred L. Shuttlesworth in Cincinnati in 1986. They began a 20-year friendship that led to their marriage in 2006. During their marriage, Shuttlesworth worked closely with her husband on local and national issues aimed at uplifting poor, disenfranchised people and addressing quality in education until his death in 2011. 

Now retired from education, she travels to speak to audiences nationally.