The second regional DevCon event hosted by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is underway in Houston.
Designed for first- and second-year students representing public and private historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and predominantly Black institutions (PBIs), the multi-day conference offers a deep dive into professional and leadership training. Through collaborative workshops, attendees connect with industry leaders to learn what it takes to launch a successful career.
Day one kicked off with the opening session entitled “Ready. Set. Thrive.” Scholars heard from TMCF’s founder, Dr. N. Joyce Payne, and its president & CEO, Dr. Harry L. Williams.
“We’re so glad to have you here,” Dr. Payne said. “You are the best and the brightest. We know that you’re ready to take on the world.”
Dr. Williams reminded the participants why they were at DevCon.
“No one is giving you anything, let’s be clear on that,” he said. “Our corporate partners see something in you. They see the talent and the skills that you have and they want you to be part of their companies and organizations.”
Edward Pollard, a member of Houston’s city council, welcomed the students to the city and encouraged them to network during the event.
“This is a special, special place,” Pollard said. “There’s no other room in the United States of America that looks like this. You have to take advantage of that.”
Students also learned more about Gallup’s CliftonStrengths and how that translates into their future careers.
After an energetic start, students attended breakout sessions designed to enhance essential skills. During the lunch main stage presentation, Toyota representatives presented “Listen to Lead: Building Courageous Listening Skills for Early Career Success.”
Participants resumed essential skills breakout sessions after lunch through the late afternoon. The dinner presentation taught students workplace dining etiquette and communication skills. The day closed with the opportunity to meet with coaches.
“The energy these students brought to Houston is contagious,” Dr. Williams said. “ It’s so important for our first- and second-year students to start building this foundation at DevCon.”
