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Keshia Knight Pulliam, the actress who portrayed the iconic character Rudy Huxtable on The Cosby Show, reflected on her career and life during the Kentucky State University 2018 Women’s History Month Assembly.

“There’s something very, very special about an HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities),” Knight Pulliam said. “This is an amazing incubator supporting you, encouraging you, giving you the tools to be the best version of yourself.”

Knight Pulliam spoke about positivity, integrity, empathy and supporting other women.

“What’s for you is for you and what’s for the next woman is for the next woman,” Knight Pulliam said. “We are so much stronger collectively and so much stronger together than any one person by themselves.”

Knight Pulliam also fielded questions from the audience, sharing the best advice she’s ever received, why she decided to start a podcast and how men can help uplift women.

Miss Kentucky State University Dorian Wright, who sponsored the event, recognized Kentucky State University Board of Regents Chair Dr. Elaine Farris with a special award.

“She loves (students) dearly and ensures our success,” Wright said. “We appreciate all she does.”

Miss Wright acknowledged Kentucky State University President M. Christopher Brown II for supporting the assembly and her Women’s History Conference.

Two women of distinction were also recognized during the assembly.

Renee C. Cash, a Kentucky State alumna, is the co-owner and operator of her family business, Ray’s Sausage Company in Cleveland, Ohio.

“I’m glad to be back home,” Cash said.

Cash’s father started the business 65 years ago and it was recently featured on Bizarre Foods.

Cash said the show’s host, Andrew Zimmerman, proclaimed their souse the best he’s ever had. Since then, she said, the phone has been jumping off the hook with souse orders.

Cash said she used to fold boxes for the company on the weekends for 50 cents and her father taught her everything he knew before he died.

Fulvia G. Longstreet, an employee of Kentucky State for over 50 years, was also honored.

Longstreet currently serves as an administrative assistant in institutional advancement but has held positions in various divisions including academic affairs, student affairs and development.

Longstreet said her husband and daughter are the backbones of her career success. She also recognized co-workers from the 70s and 80s, as well as alumni from the last 50 years.

The assembly also featured performances by Dr. Caroline G Gibson, Melodic Ambiance, Unity Dancers and the Kentucky State University Gospel Ensemble.