The Valparaiso University men’s soccer program has announced that it will co-host an event with Valpo’s Institute of Leadership and Service featuring Taj Weekes next week.

The event will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. at Duesenberg Recital Hall on campus. This is part of the Pathways to Purpose Speaker Series with this installment titled “Reggae is a Verb: Living at the Intersection of Artistry and Justice.” Weekes is a Grammy-nominated reggae artist and humanitarian.

The Valpo men’s soccer program has a longtime relationship with Weekes and his charity, They Often Cry Outreach. TOCO is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged, at-risk and orphaned children in the Caribbean through sport, enrichment education and wellness programs.

“We are so excited to bring Taj Weekes to campus next week,” Valpo head coach Mike Avery said. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with him and his charity They Often Cry Outreach (TOCO) for many years now, and have seen firsthand the incredible work they do. I’m also a big fan of his music and love watching him perform. Hearing him speak about kindness, charity and music is always a thrill for me. Most of all, he’s a friend and I love reconnecting with old friends. I hope all of Valpo will come out on Feb. 6 and join me. We will all be inspired and have a great time.”