The daughter of two of the 20th century's most influential humanitarians, Ilyasah Shabbaz has embraced the message of her parents, Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz, and is working to promote education, understanding and equality throughout the world.

In 2002, she released a coming-of-age memoir, "Growing up X." The autobiography, which has received much recognition, expresses what it was like to grow up the daughter of an African-American hero while at the same time living an ordinary middle-class American life.

Ilyasah found the experience to be cathartic. "The process of writing one's journey is enlightening," said Ilyasah. "Writing 'Growing up X' enabled me to revisit moments in my life and observe the contribution that each made to my development."

One of the moments she revisits in the book is the time she spent as an undergraduate at SUNY New Paltz. Ilyasah has wonderful memories of her friends, the campus, and the professors who lead her in many self-exploring and analytical discussions. "It was a great opportunity to grow, explore and learn who I was as an individual," said Ilyasah.

Ilyasah's book is one example of her passion for appropriating her family legacy. She is currently leading a team in resurrecting the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Education Center at the Audubon in New York City, where her father was assassinated on Feb. 21, 1965. The group has transformed the site of the tragic assassination into a center of support for the international struggle for social justice.

In addition, Ilyasah lectures throughout the country and abroad on the importance of education and understanding the inequalities caused by institutional racism. She also is a tutor and mentor for teens at various academic institutions and lock-up facilities.

Why New Paltz? Ilyasah's mother felt New Paltz would be the perfect place for Ilyasah to receive a college education.

Interests: Philanthropy and the arts

Awards: "Growing Up X" was listed on Black Entertainment Television's best book list and Essence Magazine's bestseller list, was the United Press International book of the week and was nominated for the NAACP Image Award for outstanding non-fiction literary work.

Goals: "To continue to empower future generations by teaching them the importance and relevance of history."

Influences: Her parents