WHY ATTEND

Why The Diverse Talent Rely on HBCUCONNECT

Direct Access To Top Employers

Gain unparalleled access to recruiters and hiring managers from a wide variety of industries. Whether you're an HBCU student looking for internships or an HBCU alum seeking new opportunities, this event connects you directly with employers who are actively seeking diverse talent

Free Professional Development Sessions

Enhance your career readiness with free professional development sessions tailored specifically for HBCU students and alumni. Learn from industry experts, refine your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and get valuable insights into navigating today's job market

Networking With Like-minded Professionals

Build your network by connecting with other HBCU students and alumni who share your career aspirations. This event is an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and form relationships that can lead to mentorship, collaboration, and future opportunities.

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Event Schedule

Agenda

time iconOctober 22, 2025 09:00

Event Kickoff with Will Moss, CEO, and the Team at HBCU CONNECT

Join us in the morning as we start with our warm welcome and special HBCUConnect Scholarship Announcement.

time iconOctober 22, 2025 10:00

From Overlooked to Outstanding: How Diverse Candidates Can Stand Out in Interviews and Get Hired

This session delivers direct, practical guidance to help underrepresented talent master the interview process. I’ll share what I’ve seen work — and what holds candidates back — based on years of experience on both sides of the hiring table. From answering biased or coded questions to translating non-traditional experience into compelling narratives, this talk provides the interview playbook our community deserves.


Presented by: JoAnn Means, Sr. Diversity Talent Sourcer, TD Bank

Pre-Recorded



time iconOctober 22, 2025 11:00

Unlocking Your Potential: Networking, Mentorship, and Coaching for Career Advancement

Clear definitions, benefits, and best practices for networking, mentorship, and coaching. Importance of proactive career development strategies


Presented by: Gregory MacKenney, Founder and CEO, GM Titan and Associates LLC



time iconOctober 22, 2025 12:00

Lunchtime Keynote "Fueling Your Future: Strategy and Resilience in the Job Search Journey"

In today’s competitive job market, success isn’t just about having the right credentials—it’s about having the right mindset and strategy. In this keynote, Sheria Richardson, SVP, Talent Advisory Manager at Truist, shares actionable insights on how to build a powerful job search strategy, stay motivated through setbacks, and turn perseverance into progress. Whether you're just starting out or refining your approach, this session will equip you with tools to navigate your career path with confidence and purpose.

 

Presented by: Sheria Richardson, Truist



time iconOctober 22, 2025 13:00

Providence Health System - Crafting Your Perfect Resume: Expert Tips and Reviews


Learn insights and tips for creating support documents (CV/Resume) that best support your candidacy with any employer. With 30 years of working with business and healthcare professionals, I will lead a presentation on best practices for creating documents that get noticed. Covering the following elements: format/layout, section sequence, personal statements, AI considerations and more.


Presented by: Dirk Foley, Providence Healthcare 

Join United Airlines for an inspiring session on how to turn any major into a pathway for success. Hear from our Manager of Data Analytics, who began their career as a teacher, and learn how to identify and showcase transferable skills that can make your resume stand out. Whether you're studying business, education, or something entirely different, this session will help you bridge the gap between your academic background and your dream career.


Presented by: Dom Walker, United Airlines



time iconOctober 22, 2025 15:00

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Strategies for Confidence and Success

Ever felt like you're just "winging it" and someone will eventually find out? You're not alone. This session explores the roots of imposter syndrome and equips you with practical tools to challenge self-doubt, embrace your achievements, and build authentic confidence. Through real-life stories, guided reflection, you'll learn how to reframe your inner narrative and step into your role with clarity and self-assurance.


Presented by: Toni Collins, IU Health



time iconOctober 22, 2025 16:00

The 5 to 9 Hustle: Building a Business While Working Your 9 to 5

Learn how to turn your evenings and weekends into a launchpad for your entrepreneurial dreams. In “The 5 to 9 Hustle: Building a Business While Working Your 9 to 5,” Will Moss shares practical strategies, mindset shifts, and real-world examples of how to start and grow a successful side business without sacrificing career stability. Perfect for professionals ready to build wealth, freedom, and purpose on their own terms.


Presented by Will Moss, CEO, HBCU CONNECT



time iconOctober 22, 2025 17:00

The Final Wind Down: Attendees and Event Feedback

If you have any feedback or questions, feel free to join us in this last session of the day to connect with other attendees and get your questions answered.

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