Andrew Young, noted civil rights activist, former mayor of Atlanta, Ga., and ambassador to the United Nations in the Jimmy Carter administration, will be the special guest lecturer at the annual Taste of Road Scholar event taking place on Tuesday, August 18, at historic Shearer Cottage in Oak Bluffs.

A Taste of Road Scholar on Martha’s Vineyard is offered by Elderhostel, known for its exceptional learning opportunities for adults, as a sampling of the organization’s programs that include access to expert lecturers and experiential learning. The evening begins with introductions by Amanda Davis, Emmy award-winning anchor in Atlanta. and Dr. Louis Sullivan, founding dean of Morehouse Medical School and former Secretary of Health and Human Services in President George H.W. Bush’s administration.

Ambassador Young will discuss the election of President Obama, offering insight into how and why it was possible and what it means for African Americans. As a prolific author, Mr. Young’s most recent books include An Easy Burden; the Civil Rights Movement and the Transformation of America (with foreword by Quincy Jones) and A Way Out of No Way: The Spiritual Memoirs of Andrew Young. Ambassador Young will be available for book signings at the conclusion of the evening.

“We are thrilled to have Ambassador Young speak at the Taste of Road Scholar this year,” says Kathy Taylor, associate vice president of community development at Road Scholar/Elderhostel. “The Vineyard is always buzzing during August — with President Obama expected on the Island during this time, the evening’s event is even more meaningful.”

Road Scholar collaborates with educational and cultural institutions around the U.S and internationally to offer adventures that combine hands-on learning and behind-the-scenes access with lectures and excursions led by scholars, experts and professionals.