Ben Vereen's unique ability to blend rare talent with a strong sense of social consciousness has enabled him to take on impressive musical, comedic and dramatic roles with finesse and excellence. Vereen has recently appeared in guest spots on "Touched by an Angel" and "Second Noah," has co-starred on "The Nanny," "New York Undercover," "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air," and "Star Trek - The Next Generation." In 1992, he was nominated for an Emmy Award for his part in the CBS mini-series, "Intruders: They Are Among Us." Vereen also had a recurring role on the syndicated television series "Silk Stalkings," as well as his own television series, "Tenspeed and Brownshoe," created by Stephen J. Cannell, followed by recurring roles on "J.J. Starbuck," and "Booker." Previously, he had a recurring role as 'Uncle Phillip' on the ABC-TV hit series, "Webster." His role in the television docudrama "Louis Armstrong - Chicago Style" led to several widely acclaimed roles, including the unforgettable 'Chicken George' in the Emmy Award-winning mini-series "Roots." Vereen followed these achievements with his own network special, "Ben Vereen: His Roots," which won seven Emmy Awards. He also appeared in "The Jesse Owens Story," and the CBS mini-series, "Ellis Island," for which he received a Golden Globe nomination. An integral part of Vereen's career is the lecture circuit, where he has become one of the nation's most in demand speakers. Vereen addresses audiences of all ages, speaking a corporate functions, universities and high schools, churches, conventions, and community gatherings around the country. His topics range from overcoming adversity, arts and education, black history, motivation and the importance of continuing education. Vereen has also been widely honored for his humanitarian activities. Ben has received Honorary Doctorates from Boston's Emerson College, Brooklyn's St. Francis College, and most recently, from Chicago's prestigious Columbia College. In addition, Vereen has served as chairman of several renowned organizations including The American Heart Association and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Association. In 1991, Vereen spearheaded his own organization, Celebrities for A Drug Free America, which raised more than $300,000 for drug rehabilitation centers, educational programs, and inner city community-based projects.
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