Street sign unveiling celebrates Professor Mahmoud El-Kati in Saint Paul

A ceremony honoring the life and legacy of Professor Mahmoud El-Kati with the unveiling of an honorary street sign in the heart of Rondo was held on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at the intersection of Iglehart Avenue and Milton Street in Saint Paul.
Professor El-Kati is a beloved educator, historian, and community elder whose decades of teaching have shaped generations and deepened Saint Paul’s understanding of Black history, culture, and community.
“Professor Mahmoud El-Kati has taught generations to know our history, recognize our worth, and understand our responsibility to one another,” said Councilmember Anika Bowie. “Honoring his name in the heart of Rondo is a declaration that our elders, our stories, and our contributions belong in the public spaces of our city. I am proud to celebrate him alongside the community and give him his flowers while he is here to receive them.”
The ceremony was hosted by Makeda Zulu, with a welcome from Councilmember Bowie and tributes from Eric Berksteiner, Vusi Zulu, Melvin Collins, and Nathaniel Khaliq. Ashley Commodore, accompanied by Spencer Christiansen, performed the Black National Anthem. Professor El-Kati delivered closing remarks, followed by a procession to the official sign unveiling led by Tyrone Terrill, Spike Moss, and the Men of March.