📍 Thursday, June 26th – VIP Networking Reception (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM)
Location: Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center – National Harbor, MD
Event Description: Join us for an exclusive evening of high-level networking to kick off the HBCU CONNECT Annual Conference & Career Fair. This VIP event brings together experienced professionals, recruiters, hiring managers, and sponsors for meaningful connections and engaging conversation in an elegant setting. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be provided.
Who Should Attend: Diverse professionals, recruiters, executives, and sponsors looking to build authentic relationships before the main event. (Ticket Required)
📅 Friday, June 27th – Career Conference & Workshops
9:00 AM – Event Kickoff (Sponsored by AbbVie)
Session Description: Join us as we officially kick off the HBCU CONNECT Conference & Career Fair with a special welcome from one of our premier sponsors, AbbVie. Hear opening remarks, get inspired by our mission, and gain insight into the exciting opportunities ahead. This is your chance to connect early, set your goals, and start the event with purpose.
Presented by: Will Moss, CEO, HBCU CONNECT and Larry Jemison, VP, Business Development, HBCU CONNECT
10:00 AM – How to Ignite Your Personal Wealth Journey Starting with a Paycheck
Session Description: Learn how to turn your paycheck into a powerful tool for building long-term wealth. This session will cover key strategies for budgeting, saving, investing, and developing a wealth mindset—helping you take control of your financial future, one paycheck at a time.
Presented by: Cedric Nash, Founder and CEO, Oakland Consulting Group
11:00 AM – Networking with Purpose: Building Meaningful Professional Connections
Session Description: Effective networking is more than making contacts—it’s about building genuine, strategic relationships that support your career goals. This session offers practical tips for professionals to network with intention, strengthen connections, and open doors to new opportunities.
Presented by: Sophia Eccleston, Senior Director, Origination
12:00 PM – Entrepreneurship
Session Description: Explore the journey of successful entrepreneurs and learn how to launch or grow your business idea.
Presented by: Dante Lee, CEO, Diversity City Media and Doug Menifee / Larry Jemison
1:00 PM – The Career Game Plan: Promotions, Presence & Influence for Rising Leaders
Session Description: Learn how to level up your career with a winning strategy for advancement. This session covers how to build executive presence, grow your influence, and position yourself for leadership and promotion.
Presented by: LaShann Rossum, Sr. Business Partner, TA; Kishsina Jackson, Warehouse Leader; Solanda Prather, Director, Plant Operations – Pharmavite
2:00 PM – From Classroom to Career: Navigating the Transition After Graduation
Session Description: Get expert tips from the Maximus team on making a smooth leap from college to career. Learn how to find the right opportunities, grow your network, and thrive in your first job after graduation.
Presented by: Autumn George, Project Manager, Strategic Initiatives, Maximus
3:00 PM – From Overlooked to Outstanding: How Diverse Candidates Can Stand Out in Interviews and Get Hired
Session Description: This session delivers direct, practical guidance to help underrepresented talent master the interview process. Learn what works, how to overcome common pitfalls, and how to frame your story to land the job.
Presented by: JoAnn Means, Sr. Diversity Talent Sourcer, TD Bank
4:00 PM – Building Your Personal Brand: Stand Out in the Workplace
Session Description: Your personal brand is your professional reputation—make it count. In this interactive session hosted by Citi Trends, discover how to define and communicate your unique value in the workplace. Learn strategies to boost your visibility, enhance your credibility, and position yourself for growth and leadership opportunities.
Presented by: Katrina George, VP, Human Resources and Kellie Jones, Director, Talent Acquisition & Training – Cititrends
5:00 PM – Official Event Closing
Session Description: Closing words from the HBCU CONNECT team to reflect on the day, share final insights, and say thank you to our partners and attendees.
Presented by: Will Moss, CEO, HBCU CONNECT and Larry Jemison, VP, Business Development, HBCU CONNECT
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