Award-winning actor, musician speaks in Cape tonight

The Southeast Missouri State University Speakers Series this year has, as usual, brought a diverse group of presenters to Cape Girardeau to speak on a variety of topics.

The next speaker, Common, appears at 7:30 p.m. today at the Show Me Center.

Having been in the music business for 16 years, Common has released nine albums, has had Grammy-nominated collaborations and, along with musician John Legend, won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Original Song for "Glory" from the movie "Selma."

Common also has taken a turn at acting, appearing in the TV series "Hell on Wheels" as well as movies such as "Smokin' Aces," "Wanted" and "Terminator Salvation."

In 2007, he launched the Common Ground Foundation, which is dedicated to empowering and developing urban youth in the United States. He also has released three children's books.

These days he makes appearances at colleges and unviersities across the country with his presentation "Greatness!"

It's a little over halfway through the school year. Winter's winding down, and students could probably use a little inspiration right now to help carry them through the spring.

However, Common seems to have the unique ability to meet a wide range of audiences. We encourage everyone -- student or not -- to attend his lecture and hopefully be inspired to greatness.