LeVar Burton: A Trailblazing Career in Acting, Literacy, and Conservation

LeVar Burton, a name synonymous with both entertainment and education, is set to make a significant impact at East Carolina Universitys (ECU) Voyages of Discovery Series for the 2024-25 season. Known for his iconic roles in Star Trek: The Next Generation and the groundbreaking miniseries Roots , Burton has also been a lifelong advocate for literacy and education.

A Career in Acting and Advocacy

Burton's acting career spans decades, with notable roles such as Kunta Kinte in the 1977 ABC television miniseries Roots and Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: The Next Generation . However, his impact extends far beyond the screen. As the host and executive producer of the PBS childrens program Reading Rainbow , Burton has dedicated decades to encouraging children to read and fostering a love for literature.

Burton's commitment to literacy is evident in his continued work. He has partnered with various innovative technologies, such as Osmos Reading Adventure, to teach children to read using speech recognition and digital storytelling. In 2023, he premiered his documentary, The Right to Read , which positions the literacy crisis in America as a civil rights issue. His popular podcast, LeVar Burton Reads , has produced over 200 episodes and boasts 25 million downloads.

ECU Voyages of Discovery Series

On November 14, 2024, ECU will welcome LeVar Burton as part of the Voyages of Discovery Series, a program that celebrates trailblazing tales and the role of arts and sciences in storytelling. Burtons presentation will be part of a series that aims to expand perspectives and bring communities together through insightful storytelling.

In addition to Burton, the series will also feature Jeff Corwin, an Emmy award-winning biologist and wildlife conservationist. Corwin, known for hosting Disney Channels Going Wild with Jeff Corwin , will present Tales from the Field with Jeff Corwin on January 30, 2025. His talk will highlight the challenges faced by various species and inspire audience awareness about threats to wildlife and the environment.

Continued Advocacy and Recent Engagements

Burtons advocacy extends beyond literacy. He has been vocal about issues such as book banning, which he believes is detrimental to children. Recently, he spoke about the importance of literature and the impact of book banning at a Grange Hall talk, where he also discussed the documentary Butterfly in the Sky , which explores the impact of Reading Rainbow .

Burton has also reflected on his personal growth and spiritual journey, highlighting a shift from traditional views to a more expansive and inclusive perspective on spirituality. This evolution is part of his broader commitment to personal growth and self-discovery.

Under his production company, LeVar Burton Entertainment, he continues to develop projects in film, television, podcasting, and publishing that foster empathy, champion diversity, and build community.

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