HBCUs Across the Country Gear Up for 2025 HBCU CONNECT Conference & Career Fair in Washington, D.C.

Winston-Salem State University Leads the Way in Turning Career Development into a Transformative Student Experience

Washington, D.C. – As excitement builds for the 2025 HBCU CONNECT Conference & Career Fair, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) from across the country are making plans not just to attend—but to create immersive, career-building experiences for their students.

One standout example comes from Winston-Salem State University, where the Director of Career Development Services, Bradley Hamilton Merritt, M.A., J.D., is leading a group of 10 students on a multi-day excursion to the event in Washington, D.C. This initiative goes beyond just the career fair. According to Merritt:

"The plan is to arrive in D.C. on the 24th and leave the morning of the 28th. During the trip we will be doing a community service event, participating in cultural activities, and career excursions."

Winston-Salem State’s proactive approach exemplifies the growing momentum behind the HBCU CONNECT Conference, which takes place June 26–28, 2025, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center just outside the nation’s capital.

The three-day event includes:

• Career Fair: Featuring major corporations, government agencies, and graduate programs
• Professional Development Sessions: Panels on career pathways and internship recruitment
• VIP Networking Reception: Connect with faculty, staff, and top employers
• Lunch & Learn Sessions: Engage directly with sponsors and recruiters
• Discounted Accommodations: Special rates at the Gaylord National Resort

This year’s conference is expected to be the largest yet, bringing together HBCU students, recent graduates, alumni, and campus leaders for one-of-a-kind networking and recruitment opportunities.

“We’re thrilled to see schools like Winston-Salem State University stepping up to create full-fledged career development experiences around our event,” said Will Moss, CEO of HBCU CONNECT. “We hope their example inspires other HBCUs to do the same—to bring students, broaden their horizons, and prepare them for the future.”

Faculty and staff interested in bringing students or attending themselves can find more details and register at:

https://hbcuconnect.com/event

Or email annualevent@hbcuconnect.com to RSVP or request group planning support.