HEMPSTEAD, NY.- The Hofstra University Museum presents an original exhibition of distinctive photographs that capture Muhammad Ali’s life, including his childhood, boxing career, family life, humanitarian work and Olympic events. The exhibit, The Greatest of All Time: Muhammad Ali, will be on view September 21, 2008 through December 2, 2008 in the Hofstra University Museum – Emily Lowe Gallery, south campus.

Muhammad Ali burst upon the world stage over 40 years ago as a champion boxer. His prowess and talents as an athlete were unmatched, but his life and voice outside the boxing ring also changed forever what the public expects a champion to be. The photographers in this exhibition that captured Ali’s life include: Annie Leibovitz, Gordon Parks, Steve Schapiro, Thomas Hoepker, Sonia Katchian, and Art Shay among others.

“The Hofstra University Museum is pleased to present this insightful exhibition that explores the multiple facets and significant contributions of this cultural icon of the 20th century,” said Director Beth Levinthal. “Through this accessible photographic essay that covers key events in Ali’s life we intend for a broad spectrum of individuals to enjoy and be enriched by this exhibit.

In conjunction with the exhibit, several programs are planned including a public reception and educator open house on Tuesday, September 23, 2008 from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. An Art Talk Series presentation, Float Like a Butterfly: Muhammad Ali As An African American Icon, with Hofstra Professor of English Joseph McLaren, will be presented on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 4 p.m. Hofstra Entertainment will also present, Fightin’ Words, a Muhammad Ali inspired spoken-word performance in the Emily Lowe Gallery on November 13, 14 and 15, 2008 at 8 p.m.