On September 11th I left Athens to board a non-stop flight to represent the Ohio University Sport Administration Program and the Diversity Council at the 35th National Black MBA Association Conference in Houston, TX. The National Black MBA Association houses 43 professional chapters, 26 collegiate chapters, and over 25 youth mentor programs. As a NBMBAA student member not only did the NBMBAA Conference provide opportunities to network with major personalities and corporations, but also allowed me to gain insight into best practices for diversity and inclusion from major corporations and business executives. The theme for the conference this year focused on courageous leadership, and “owning your success” in today’s challenging, competitive business world.
Each year the National Black MBA Association draws over 12,000 corporate executives, entrepreneurs, business professionals, and students to an annual conference which features open seminars, keynote speakers, career exposition, and case cup competitions. The National Black MBA Association Annual Conference and Exposition is intended for minority business professionals, industry leaders, and students to gather for networking, leadership development, and professional job opportunities. NBMBAA also hosts a career fair within the conferences featuring over 400 Fortune 500 corporations to register for the two‐day Career Fair. In addition to the career exposition, the conference provides opportunities to participate in open forums to encourage discussions about professional development, career advancement, education, and diversity.
Highlights of the trip included being able to be face-to-face with corporate executives, sponsors of the event, and university officials to speak with them about best business practices with a focus on diversity and inclusion. Hospitality suites and socials allowed me the unique opportunity to be in an informal environment where I heard different perspectives and experiences that others have gone through or that have proven to be successful in gaining a competitive edge for themselves and their company. Overall, my first time visiting Houston and participating in the NBMBAA Conference was a success. I am ready to share my experiences and ideas with our Diversity Council and look forward to going back sometime in the future!
As a NBMBAA student member not only did the NBMBAA Conference provide opportunities to network with major personalities and corporations, but also allowed me to gain insight into best practices for diversity and inclusion from major corporations and business executives. The theme for the conference this year focused on courageous leadership, and “owning your success” in today’s challenging, competitive business world.
