HBCU First

Thank you Shaun Maxwell and Charlotte Ference of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for a transformative HBCU #Health & #Wellness Accelerator on Leveraging #Healthcare Resources! And special thanks to Jenna Sandker and Rachel Martin, MPA for your continued support. Students said: "I’ve lost many family members to cancer, and at times it’s felt like support was lacking. Now, I know there are resources available to help, thank you." — Jada Wesley, Howard University "I really appreciated your insights on holistic wellness—it was a great reminder that true care goes beyond #medicine to mind, heart, and community." — Hasanatou Barry, University of Maryland Eastern Shore "I was especially moved by how #MSK partners with local churches to build #community trust." — Kori Jamison, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University "I’ll use this info to prioritize my health, even as an out-of-state student. It’s been hard deciding on care between home and school, but now I’ll make more effort to get that set and keep up with appointments." — Lauryn Chandler, Howard University "Today helped me see that #socialwork in education could be a great fit since I don’t want to be a teacher. It opened my eyes to a different path in #education that I’ll definitely explore." — Kaliya Springer, Spelman College "Since I work in healthcare now and plan to in the #future, I’ll carry lessons from college into my career—especially the core value of honoring each person’s dignity and worth." — Victory Crawford, Fayetteville State University "As a future physician, I’ll #advocate for more collaborative, inclusive care that involves social workers and support services. Recognizing systemic barriers will help me better serve underserved communities and advance health equity." — Mya Motsi, Spelman College ---------- And thank you Alexis Wilson of Claflin University for moderating a transformative workshop!

Thank you Kari Cobham of The 19th for an inspiring HBCU #Career Talk on #Leadership! Students said: "Thank you Ms. Cobham for your time and insight! It was wonderful to hear your #story and I am truly inspired." — Mariem Dia, Howard University "I loved the #transparency and the insight given—especially the detailed advice for how I can make the most of the path I’ve chosen. I am extremely grateful! (PS: Your son was adorable and made my night!)." — Juwayriah Evans, Savannah State University "Thank you so much for your well needed #unfiltered insight." — Christina Astrid Sime, Howard University "It’s okay not to know exactly where I’m headed. As long as I’m doing what feels right for me, the #path will become clearer—whether that’s grad school, a gap year, or jumping into work." — Monelle Sherwood, Benedict College "There is no work life #balance, there is a work-life chemistry!" — Mariam O., Howard University "Use your HBCU resources and #network! Ms. Cobham got her BET internship freshman year just by staying connected with her advisor." — Tiana Anderson, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University "#Advocate for yourself and go after what you want—even if you're the only one who believes in your vision. Confidence and persistence can open doors." — Colby James, Howard University ---------- And thank you Samya Fernandes of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University for moderating an inspiring career talk!

Thank you MaryBeth Hanley of Tiffany & Co. for delivering an insightful HBCU #Luxury #Retail Accelerator on Client Experience and #Storytelling! And special thanks to Adrienne Group and Joe Savino for your partnership and continued support! Students said: "Today’s workshop showed me how powerful storytelling is in retail. Exploring the jewelry and their meanings made me appreciate how stories can make products stand out and build personal connections with customers." — Hasanatou Barry, University of Maryland Eastern Shore "Building a personal connection is key when growing clientele. This workshop showed that selling a product is more than just the transaction—explaining the 'why' behind it helps form that connection." — Saige Dehaney, Howard University "I can apply today’s lesson by improving how I communicate and build meaningful relationships—skills that will be essential when connecting with patients as a future physician." — Mya Motsi, Spelman College "I'll use storytelling and personal connections to build my brand, earn patient trust, and grow my network. Empathy and attention to detail will help me deliver quality care and make a lasting impact in physical therapy." — Kamille Wade, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University "Thank you so much for this workshop Ms. Hanley! It was very engaging and I'm sure everyone would agree that it's a great lesson to us all." — Monjama Kallon, Howard University ---------- Thank you Yani McNeil of Virginia State University for moderating an insightful workshop!

Thank you Charles Samuel, CLU, ChFC and Matthew Salvatore of Corebridge Financial for a high-energy HBCU #Wealth Accelerator on Life #Insurance and Annuities! And special thanks to Shanda Vangas and Anastatia Harrison, SHRM - CP for your continued support! Students said: "Thank you, Mr. Samuel and Mr. Salvatore, for your transparency and inspiration. I appreciated how you simplified complex topics and encouraged us to think proactively about our financial futures." — Hasanatou Barry, University of Maryland Eastern Shore "My biggest takeaway was that “life insurance is an airbag.” It really helped me understand how essential it is to have life insurance." — Reiner Ihotu Adakole-Okopi, Edward Waters University (Official) "My biggest takeaway is that life insurance and annuities are key to building long-term financial security—for both retirement and supporting loved ones." — Colby James, Howard University "I learned that life insurance and annuities are can be tailored to support my personal wealth-building goals." — Tylah Morgan, Jackson State University ---------- And thank you Laniyah Gaines of Morgan State University for moderating a high-energy workshop!

Thank you Janelle M. Stewart for an insightful HBCU #Health & #Wellness Accelerator with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center on Ensuring Your Safety! And special thanks to Jenna Sandker and Rachel Martin, MPA for making this possible. Students said: "Thank you Ms. Stewart. I appreciated you sharing your life experiences, your words left a lasting impression." — J’Leeyiah Russell, Dillard University "I’ve always been the type to “wing it” in emergencies, but Ms. Stewart’s presentation showed me how important it is to have a plan and emergency kits ready. I’ll be sharing this with my family!" — Alexis Wilson, Claflin University "I can create a schedule that supports mental and physical health by planning balanced meals, exercising with my family, staying on top of checkups, and promoting good hygiene to prevent illness." — robtrice simmons, Alcorn State University "Going forward I would like to connect more with my community and will check out ready.gov, thank you Ms. Stewart!" — Auniya Williams, Savannah State University "I can apply today’s lessons by staying aware of my surroundings, recognizing signs of stress, and prioritizing my safety and well-being in any workplace." — Colby James, Howard University "I’m going to stayed prepared for challenges, especially as a future physical therapist where quick decisions impact patient care." — Kamille Wade, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University ---------- And thank you Samya Fernandes of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University for moderating an insightful workshop!

Over 60 volunteer mentors provided one-on-one support to 100+ students from 28 historically Black colleges and universities. Thank you Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Corebridge Financial, Indeed, and Tiffany & Co. for lending your time and support to the HBCU First #Mentoring Experience! And a big thanks to Nekeirah Brice, B.S. of University of South Florida and Shanique S. of Southern University Law Center for expertly matching all 185 participants! ---------- #Mentorship sparked #creativity, opened doors, and inspired #growth. Hear what students had to say about the impact of their mentors: "Ms. [Deenie] Matthews [of Memorial Sloan Kettering] told me to continue to create, and her advice about the importance of a portfolio really stuck with me. I’m now inspired to start creating content for my #future #career." — Alexis Wilson, Claflin University "Thank you to my amazing mentor, Ms. Shanda Vangas [of Corebridge Financial]. Her experience and guidance unlocked great opportunities for growth, learning, and meaningful connections that will shape my college-to-career journey." — Madison Zoebisch, Tuskegee University "My mentor [Bria Montgomery of Indeed] helped me see new possibilities in tech, especially in roles like tech sales that I had previously overlooked. I’m now more open to exploring different paths and roles in tech as I continue my job search." — Tanisha Hyppolite, Lincoln University "My mentor [Hassan Mehdaoui of Tiffany & Co.] changed how I approach self-reflection by emphasizing accountability. He shared how recognizing his impact as a leader helped him grow, inspiring me to do the same." — Laniyah Gaines, Morgan State University "Ms. Tassandra Allen, MBA [of Corebridge Financial] emphasized the importance of continuous learning and skill development, inspiring me to pursue certifications and move forward in my career with a growth-focused mindset." — Hasanatou Barry, University of Maryland Eastern Shore "My mentor, Tatiana Henderson, completely exceeded my expectations of how impactful a mentor could be. Though our career paths differ, her wisdom helped me grow personally and inspired me to stay open-minded, ask questions, and actively prepare for my future as an immigration lawyer." — Kirsten Graham, Howard University ---------- Special thanks to Jenna Sandker, Rachel Martin, MPA, Shanda Vangas, Giana Colon, Anastatia Harrison, SHRM - CP, Matt Berndt, Clint Carrens, Brighid Power, Ed.D., Adrienne Group, and Joe Savino for your partnership!

Thank you Joe Savino of Tiffany & Co. for delivering an inspiring and engaging #HBCU #Luxury #Retail Accelerator on People Making the Difference! And special thanks to Adrienne Group for your partnership and support! Students said: Thank you, Mr. Savino, for your time. I really appreciated how you made everyone feel included by using our names as you spoke—it felt personal and engaging, even over Zoom. The energy and respect felt mutual. — Yani McNeil, Virginia State University My biggest takeaway is that growth in HR comes from trying, failing, and improving. In a field like HR, it’s important to take risks, learn from failures, and keep getting better—a great reminder for college students. — Sanaa Nixon, Howard University My biggest takeaway is to always strive for excellence in everything you do. Skills like communication, critical thinking, and time management are essential for everyone, especially at a place like Tiffany & Co. — Jayda Hodge, Central State University I can apply today’s lesson by focusing on how I show up in every space. Whether networking or building relationships, making people feel valued leaves a lasting impact. I also learned that luxury is about the experience, not just money—reminding me to bring care and intention to everything I do. — Kamille Wade, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University I really appreciate how quickly you responded and acknowledged me in the chat. As a fellow first-gen college student, you’re truly inspiring—thank you! — Juwayriah Evans, Savannah State University ---------- Thank you Samya Fernandes of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University for moderating another inspiring and engaging workshop!

Thank you Tia Jinks of Corebridge Financial for an empowering #HBCU #Wealth Accelerator on Your #Future Starts Now! And special thanks to Shanda Vangas and Anastatia Harrison, SHRM - CP for your support and #leadership! Students said: My biggest takeaway was the phrase, "It’s never too soon to start planning your retirement." As an 18-year-old freshman, I thought retirement planning started around 30, but this made me realize it should start now. — Alexis Wilson, Claflin University Understanding workplace retirement plans will help me make informed decisions for long-term financial stability. Using options like a 401(k), 403(b), or 457(b) will allow me to benefit from payroll deductions, employer matches, and tax advantages. Knowing the difference between pretax and Roth contributions will also help me choose the best fit for my future income and taxes, setting me up for early saving, smart investing, and financial independence. — Delmarea King, Fayetteville State University My biggest takeaway was the importance of prioritizing an emergency fund since relying on retirement savings can trigger taxes and may not be enough, especially in today’s economy. — Chelsea Nwankwo, Howard University Thank you Ms. Jinks for sharing valuable financial insights and making complex topics easy to understand. I really appreciated your real-life examples and practical advice on saving and investing. I love how engaging and informative the session was it has truly motivated me to start planning for my financial future early. — Carlisa Wright, Benedict College ---------- And thank you Samya Fernandes of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University for moderating an empowering workshop!

Thank you Grace Morrissey and Christine W for an enriching #HBCU #Health & #Wellness Accelerator with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center on being your authentic self! And special thanks to Jenna Sandker and Rachel Martin, MPA for making this possible. Students said: "Leading with empathy" was my key takeaway. I loved how the issue was presented in a fun, interactive way. It showed me that being myself at work is okay, especially at a company like Memorial Sloan Kettering. — Kirsten Graham, Howard University I thank Ms. Watts for sharing her own personal experience with microaggressions in her family as someone from the south with white relatives. I was able to resonate with that experience and I appreciated her transparency. — Jesiah Allen, Howard University My biggest takeaway from today’s workshop was how authenticity impacts performance, relationships, and mental health at work. It’s not just about being yourself but also setting boundaries, building trust, and fostering relationships. — Tanisha Hyppolite, Lincoln University I will embrace authenticity by overcoming imposter syndrome, staying true to my values, and fostering inclusive, meaningful connections to advocate for diversity, especially in healthcare. — Mya Motsi, Spelman College ---------- And thank you Samya Fernandes of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University for moderating an enriching workshop!

We would like to extend our gratitude to Amanda Meigher Mariner and Vincent Doré for an inspiring kickoff to the Spring 2025 #HBCU #Luxury #Retail Accelerator with Tiffany & Co. This 5-week workshop series will equip 100+ Historically #Black #College and University students with marketing skills and exposure to luxury and retail career paths. And special thanks to Adrienne Group and Joe Savino for your leadership and support! Students said: Thank you, Mr. Doré and Ms. Meigher, for sharing your insights on Tiffany & Co. Your compassion and expertise are exactly what more professionals need! — Chasity Player, Tuskegee University I was amazed by how 3D window art blends creativity, purpose, and collaboration. Seeing designers work across teams gave me a deeper appreciation for the thought behind each display. — Hasanatou Barry, University of Maryland Eastern Shore Tiffany & Co.’s work ethic pushes me to think creatively and make a meaningful impact in my own career and community. — Cynia Cox, Savannah State University I now see how attention to detail can shape a compelling personal narrative. Thoughtfully presenting my skills will help me stand out as I transition from college to my career. — Somuadina Egbulam, University of Maryland Eastern Shore Mr. Doré’s insight on making displays appear effortless reminded me that preparation is key. I’ll apply this mindset to my job search, resume, and interviews. — Samaya Goodwin, Spelman College Tiffany & Co. offers opportunities beyond design—marketing, operations, communications, and more. It’s a place that values diverse perspectives and fresh ideas. — Jayda Hodge, Central State University ------------ And thank you Samya Fernandes of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University for moderating this inspiring session!