Emmy-nominated actor Giancarlo Esposito will discuss his journey in the entertainment industry as part of a robust schedule of Black History Month events at University of the Pacific.

A conversation with acclaimed poet Lisa Lovett, a performance by the Conservatory of Music and a community health fair are among the other signature events. The full calendar is available online.

“Every event we hold and every story we share this February is a reminder of the integral part Black people have played in our culture and our world,” said Randall Ogans, executive producer of Black History Month. “It is an honor for our committee to celebrate the legacy of these trailblazers, such as actor Giancarlo Esposito, podcaster Lisa Lovett and so many more."

A Conversation with Giancarlo Esposito

Esposito will speak Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. in Faye Spanos Concert Hall for a candid conversation about how he navigated the entertainment industry despite facing numerous challenges in his personal life.

"Black History Month at University of the Pacific is an opportunity to celebrate, reflect, and learn from the rich contributions of Black individuals to our society and culture. This year, we are especially honored to welcome the iconic Giancarlo Esposito, whose powerful storytelling and career exemplify resilience, creativity, and commitment to truth,” said Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Mary Lomax-Ghirarduzzi. “Events like these not only inspire us but also deepen our understanding of the ongoing journey toward equity and justice. We invite our entire community to engage with this year’s lineup and be part of these meaningful conversations."

Esposito, whose credits include the television series “Breaking Bad” and “The Boys” as well as films such as “Malcolm X,” “The Usual Suspects” and the upcoming “Captain America: Brave New World,” will discuss how he remained true to himself throughout hurdles many people of color in the industry face. 

Through these obstacles, Esposito secured roles that not only kept him working but set him apart and defined a longstanding award-winning career. He is now an Emmy-nominated film, television and stage actor, as well as a director and producer.

Additionally, he will talk about his experience as a biracial person and how embracing his race became a fundamental aspect of his acting identity.

As the keynote speaker, he will also offer some inspiring words, encouraging audience members to follow their passions, and share his definition of success. 

A Conversation with Lisa Lovett

Lovett, an acclaimed poet, online wellness community guru and host of the hit podcast “Seasoned Dialogue,” will lead an inspirational discussion Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. in the DeRosa University Center Ballroom.

Lovett will share her poetry and spoken word pieces that explore the topic, “Where Do We Go from Here?” She will also discuss her experience as an introvert who stepped out of her comfort zone to embrace freedom of expression in an interactive conversation centered on encouraging audience members. 

Community Health Fair

The Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy will provide free diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure screenings and vaccinations during a Community Health Fair at Progressive Community Church in Stockton Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“The School of Pharmacy is honored to play a part in the impactful programming that the university has planned as part of Black History Month,” said Raj Patel, professor of Pharmacy Practice. “We will be hosting a health fair at the largest African American church in Stockton and expect more than 80 of our pharmacy students to provide free health services to community members during the event.”

Additional events

University of the Pacific’s acclaimed orchestra will hold a concert at Faye Spanos Concert Hall Feb. 12 at 7:30 p.m. The concert will be led by guest conductor Michael Alexander with Assistant Professor Brittany Trotter on flute. The concert will conclude with William Grant Still’s Symphony No. 1 titled “Afro-American Symphony.” Still is widely regarded as “the dean of Afro-American Composers.”

A screening of “Samantha & The Fisherman's Dream” will take place at Long Theatre on the Stockton Campus Feb. 7 at 5 p.m. The film, directed by alumnus HT Fleming ’24, explores themes of family and self-expression. A question-and-answer session will follow the screening.

“Black History Month is a powerful reminder of Pacific’s commitment to celebrating the legacy of Black leaders and uplifting Black voices," said ASUOP Director of Community Advocacy Support & Engagement Abrefi Adubofour '26. "I’m so grateful to be part of a community that breathes new life into the pursuit of equity with impactful experiences and events like this year’s. Each year, we continuously raise the bar in living out the values we stand for by creating spaces that inspire reflection, connection, and growth.

Many Black History Month events are open to the public with pre-registration required for those with limited seating.