Symposium 2025

“African Americans and Labor”

Thursday, February 20, 2025

8:30 am – 8:30 pm

We are excited to announce the first annual Black History Education Symposium, Thursday, February 20, 2025.

This day-long event will be a vibrant celebration of culture, learning, and community engagement.

Join us for a series of thought-provoking discussions, workshops, and cultural performances aimed at honoring the rich history and contributions of Black individuals and communities.

Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details on speakers, session topics, and registration information.

We look forward to celebrating and learning together.

8:30 AM

Doors Open – Continental breakfast

8:50 AM

Welcome

PROGRAM OF EVENTS

Dr. Joi Patterson, Chief Diversity Officer
Dr. Corey Bradford, Vice President of Finance

Engbretson Hall

9 - 9:45 AM

Introduction of Kara Smith

Kara Smith
Design and Innovation Strategist, Deloitte Digital

Black Talent
Equitable Pathways from College to Career
Highlight the immense potential and contributions of Black individuals and how they paved the way for us.

Capitalizing on your black talent to catapult your career.

Engbretson Hall

10- 10:45 AM

Engbretson Hall

Introduction of Lisa Harrell

Gillian Vinson

Lisa Harrell
Chief Human Resource Officer, Cleaveland Avenue

Examining the historical and current challenges faced by Black employees in the workplace, and how HR practices can be adapted to promote equity and inclusion for Black talent development and career progression.

11 - Noon

Jalyn Woodard

Social Hour and Black History Museum Tour

Networking with mocktails. Curated by the Black Student Union.

Noon - 12:45 PM

Introduction of Roderick Young

Lannie Brown-Simon

Roderick Young
President VSI, LTD

Lunch and Presentation – Laborer and Network theme

BEP invited.

1 - 2:15 PM

Black Student Perspective Panel Discussion

Xavier Thompson

Jonathan Cooper
Panel Facilitator

Roderick Young
President VSI, LTD

Business Enterprise Program (BEP) Certification Workshop, for business owned by minorities, women, and persons with disabilities committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable and competitive business environment.

Engbretson Hall