Civil Rights Activist and author Mary Frances Berry spoke to inspire students at Kent State Stark on Feb. 27.

“If you want to get something done, understand the issue and make it simple, don’t over complicate it,” Berry said to the crowd.

Berry touched on many points, including war, global warming, voter suppression and recapping her new book, “History Teaches Us to Resist: How Progressive Movements Have Succeeded in Challenging Times.”

She shared many stories about the victories throughout her career and gave insight of what to do, or not do when it comes to making change.

Berry spent one-on-one time with local high school students during a press conference before the event.

“You’re never too young to start something; bring attention to the things that bother you,” Berry said to a student from Jackson High School. “If they tell you you’re too young, tell them you’re too old.”

Berry said that the trajectory that is the pattern of change is not always positive, but to not get despaired.

“Each generation needs to make a dent in social equality, and now’s our time,” she said.

Ellie Dundics covers regional campuses. Contact her at [email protected].