Empowerment in the Ring: Conversation with Vernoca Michael, The First Lady of the Legendary Blue Horizon

Are you a boxing enthusiast or just curious about the world of sports? Join us for an engaging conversation with Vernoca Michael, the First Lady of the Legendary Blue Horizon!

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November 8, 2024, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
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Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center, Floor 5
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Open to the Public

Hosted by: Kislak Center

ernoca Micheal, the First Lady of the Legendary Blue Horizon

Philadelphia’s legendary Blue Horizon, a former 1,346-seat boxing venue on North Broad Street, served as the launchpad for numerous champions and a vibrant hub for local talent from 1961 to 2010. Notably, it was even featured in the iconic Rocky movies, adding to its legendary status. Its former President and CEO, Vernoca Michael, has been pivotal in shaping the careers of many up-and-coming boxers while being the first female African American boxing promoter.

Hear her insider's perspective on what it takes to succeed in the boxing world and the stories behind some of the sport's biggest names while viewing a pop-up exhibit of memorabilia from the Blue Horizon archive.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn more about this iconic Philadelphia venue and the impact it has had on the boxing community. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the sport, this lecture promises to be both informative and inspiring! 

About the speaker

Vernoca Michael is a prominent leader in business and boxing, recognized as the first African American female boxing promoter. As the President and CEO of Legendary Blue Horizon, she made history as a licensed promoter and mentor, significantly impacting the sport and her community. Her academic credentials include degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, Harvard, and MIT, which have helped her excel in various influential roles, including Executive Director of the West Philadelphia Cultural Alliance from 2016 to 2020 and the first African American National Director of a Big 8 CPA firm.

A passionate motivational speaker, Vernoca Michael inspires audiences across the country. Her achievements, including the Paul Robeson Award and her induction into the African American History Hall of Fame, reflect her commitment to making a positive impact.  

Plan Your Visit

This event is free and open to the public; advance registration is required. Penn faculty, staff, and students must swipe their PennCard for access. Visitors from outside the Penn community must present a current, valid government or school-issued photo I.D. that contains an expiration date.

The program will take place in the Kislak Center Hallway on the 5th floor of Van Pelt-Dietrich Library. Go left as you get off the elevator and you will see the exhibition of photographs about the Blue Horizon. The program will be in the space directly across from the exhibition.  

Find more information to plan your visit

Related Exhibition: Boxing at the Legendary Blue

Through December 15, see photographs of the Blue Horizon, Philadelphia’s legendary former boxing venue on North Broad Street, by American photographer and educator Larry Fink (1941–2023).