Dr. Robert L. Lawson, of Portsmouth, will be the keynote speaker for the Annual Freedom Fund Banquet, hosted by the Southeastern Ohio NAACP branch that serves Lawrence, Gallia and Jackson counties.

Lawson is a 1973 University of Rio Grande graduate, and acquired his Master’s Degree in 17th Century Literature from Marshall University. He acquired his doctoral degree in Educational Administration from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. This is his fourth year in the Chillicothe City School District.

In addition to his illustrious career as a lifelong educator, Lawson is the author of 12 books, which include “Destined for Greatness,” “Oh Yes We Can,” “Black Achievement in America,” “The Gamer” and numerous others. Some of the books will be on display at the banquet, and can also be purchased there.

This year’s banquet is set for 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7 at the University of Rio Grande, 218 N. College Street, Rio Grande. Music will be provided by the Mt. Carmel Baptist Church Choir, out of Bidwell.

Tickets are still being sold, and are $25 each. To purchase tickets, contact Martha Cosby at 740-286-1776, Elma Johnson at 740-286-0486, Judy Payne at 740-446-3056, Mary Armstrong at 740-446-4965 or Barbara Carter at 740-894-3197.