Vanessa Williams Joins Star-Studded Cast as Host of "Real Change" TV Special

Glee's Matthew Morrison

Press Release: REAL Change Productions has announced that award-winning singer and actress Vanessa Williams has signed on to host the Real Change—Artists for Education telecast airing nationally on April 23*. This one-hour program, in partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org and presenting sponsor Office Depot, combines celebrities with philanthropy, plus exclusive musical performances, touching one-on-one interviews and more.

“Vanessa is the perfect host for the Real Change telecast, and we are honored to have her on board,” said Liam Murphy, Founder & CEO of REAL Change Productions. “As the daughter of two teachers, Vanessa shares our desire to help educators and students by bringing necessary school supplies into the classroom.”

Real Change convenes a class of international music superstars including Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus, Pitbull, Lady Antebellum, Redfoo, Jason Mraz, Quincy Jones and Glee star Matthew Morrison. Some visit schools in their hometowns while others discuss the teachers that inspired them and surprise deserving students and organizations along the way.

“Education has always played an important role throughout my life,” said Williams. “Now as a mother of four children, I strive to give them the best education possible and hope that they also encounter an influential teacher of their own. It’s important that young students are inspired to chase their dreams and feel that they can make a difference in the world.”

In addition to filming for Real Change, Williams is currently starring on Broadway in "The Trip to Bountiful" alongside Cuba Gooding Jr. and Cicely Tyson. The Emmy-nominated star of such series as "Ugly Betty," "Desperate Housewives" and "666 Park Avenue" can also be seen in Tyler Perry's latest film, "Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor.”

Real Change will also feature other noteworthy groups: Adam Braun’s Pencils of Promise Organization, and Quincy Jones’ Musiq Consortium, all organizations that improve the availability and quality of education for children.

Those wishing to donate to Real Change can log onto LiveRealChange.com. For more information and to see the trailer, visit LiveRealChange.com.

*Real Change will premiere nationally on Tuesday, April 23 (two weeks before National Teacher Appreciation Week). Check local TV listings or watch online at LiveRealChange.com.