Thursday, July 24, 2025 This schedule is tentative and subject to change. Presenters and presentations may be updated. Last revised on June 5, 2025
2:00pm - 7:00pm
Grand Ballroom Foyer
3:00pm - 4:00pm
(TBA)
PRE-CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES
New Advisor Orientation (All Advisors Welcome)
6:30pm - 7:45pm
Grand Ballroom
Greetings / Introduction / Conference Overview
Introduction of HBCU Royalty
8:00pm
Grand Ballroom
Opening Keynote Speaker
9:30pm
The Jazz Playhouse, Fleur de Lis & Courtyard
Opening Reception
Great opportunity to meet and greet all attendees from different schools.
July 25, 2025
9:00am - 10:15am
Grand Ballroom
Introduction and Conference Overview: The Historical Significance of HBCU Royalty
Dale Williams, PhD, Founder of Leadership for Queens/HBCU Kings & Queens Conference, and former HBCU Queen (Tennessee State University)
Dr. Dale Williams gives an overview of the unspoken rules and expectations for Campus Royalty as well as challenges for kings and queens to get ready for the road ahead.
10:30am - 11:30am
Grand Ballroom
Dr. Alex Ellis, Award-winning author, renowned speaker, distinguished mentor, and Founder of Tied to Greatness and Tish Norman, Founder of a boutique learning and development consultancy, TLN, Inc. Norman specializes in college and career readiness
Step into your royal role with confidence, class, and undeniable presence! Polished and Powerful: The Ultimate Dress for Success Intensive is a high-energy, hands-on “styleshop” crafted especially for HBCU Kings and Queens. Led by image architects Dr. Alex Ellis and Ms. Tish Norman—two nationally recognized experts with 40+ years combined experience—this session will elevate your style game and sharpen your professional edge.
From decoding dress codes to building a wardrobe that speaks before you do, you’ll learn how to align your outer image with your inner greatness. This is more than fashion—it’s leadership through presence. Walk in with curiosity. Leave with confidence, clarity, and a personal brand fit for royalty.
11:45am - 12:30pm
Grand Ballroom
1:00pm-2:15pm (lunch)
Grand Ballroom
Kings & Queens CARES-Leading with Legacy
Carla Lankford, Founder, Campus Kings and Queens CARES and former Miss Tennessee State University
Wearing the crown is more than a title—it's a responsibility to lead with purpose, pride, and power. This dynamic workshop introduces Campus Kings & Queens CARES, a national leadership and mentorship initiative created specifically for HBCU student royalty. Founded by Carla Lankford, former Miss Tennessee State University, in partnership with the National CARES Mentoring Movement led by Susan L. Taylor of Essence magazine, this program is designed to equip Kings and Queens with the tools to reign with vision and impact.
Through this session, participants will:
- Discover a leadership blueprint tailored for student royalty
- Learn how to design and lead high-impact service projects
- Gain strategies for balancing visibility, academics, and personal growth
- Connect with a national network of fellow Kings and Queens
- Explore mentorship opportunities that extend beyond their reign
If your King and Queen are ready to turn their reign into a movement, this workshop is the first step. Join us and lead with legacy.
LUNCH AND QUICK Buffet & Hotel Etiquette Tips
Cassandra Gray, Associate Communications Director, Voice Over Talent, and Logistics Coordinator, HBCU Kings & Queens Conference (Tennessee State University)
Whether in the Royal Court or Royal Sonesta, traveling for work or pleasure, first impressions are lasting. During this session, attendees will learn the do's and don'ts of buffet and hotel etiquette, setting the tone for your four-day conference experience.
2:30pm - 4:15pm
Acadia Suite (2nd flr)
Breakout Session
Queens: Queening with a Healing Heart:
(Queens only)
A candid discussion from one queen to another. Real-life lessons and advice on how to take your reign, life, and career path to the next level.
Lecia Rives, ESQ. Comedienne, Motivational Speaker, Author
2:30pm - 4:15pm
Fleur De Lis
2:30pm - 4:15pm
Grand Ballroom
Breakout Session for Kings: Black Male Empowerment Panel:
(Kings only)
A candid discussion on issues facing Black males striving for success. Former HBCU kings and other African American male leaders share real-life lessons on overcoming societal, professional, and personal challenges and maximizing an effective and stress-free reign.
- Anthony M. Jones, Founder of The Kings’ Konnection/HBCU Kings & Queens Conference (Talladega College)
- Charles H. Galbreath, II, Juvenile Justice System Reform Consultant, Tennessee State University National Alumni Association President Emeritus, and former HBCU King
- Dr. Alex Ellis, Award-winning author, renowned speaker, distinguished mentor, and Founder of Tied to Greatness
- Roderic L. Sprowl, National Keynote Speaker & Founding Pastor, Thrive Church
- Reginald Shareef, Technologist, Software engineer, Entrepreneur, Artist, Philanthropist, and former HBCU King
Breakout Session for Advisors:
(Advisors only)
Part One - Introductions & Overview of Conference Learning Outcomes
Dr. Dale Williams, Founder, Leadership for Queens/HBCU Kings & Queens Conference, and former HBCU Queen (Tennessee State University)
7:00pm
Grand Ballroom
Fine Dining 101: Etiquette Dinner
(after five attire)
Ocielia Sprowl - Miss Black USA 2011, Pageant Coach & Owner, Slay Your Pageant
10:30pm
Grand Ballroom
YOU WIN! Royal Game Show (The Choice is Yours)(open to all conference participants -please wear school shirt)
Lecia Rives, Esq. Comedienne. Motivational Speaker. Author
Saturday, July 26, 2025
7:45am
Meet in Hotel Lobby
Depart the Hotel to host the School. (Transportation provided departs from Canal St.)
8:30am - 9:30am
Welcome/Breakfast
10:00am - 11:15am
Breakout Session One
10:00am - 11:15am
I. Secrets to Winning the National Crown
Ocielia Sprowl - Miss Black USA 2011, Pageant Coach & Owner, Slay Your Pageant
There are common traits amongst national queens, and in this session, you will learn what it takes to be one of them. If you're wondering exactly what it takes to be prepared for the big stage, this session is for you. During our time together, you will discover the secrets to nailing your national pageant in all phases of competition.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
10::00am-11:15am
II. Fit for a Queen
Carrie Charlick, Founder of Essential Bodywear
Understand why the bra is the most important thing in your wardrobe “Change your bra, Change your life”
Avoid the three top mistakes people make when buying bras so you no longer want to rip it off at the end of the night
Understand the bra fit secrets you weren't taught growing up (but you need to know!)
Understand the why the bra is the most important thing in your wardrobe
Stop dreading bras and become a more empowered, confident, and supported person
Once you come to my workshop you'll never need to rely on luck to find a good bra fit again!
Audience: Queens and preferably female Advisors
9:45am-11:00am
III. Planning the Perfect Coronation
Anthony M. Jones, Jr. Founder of the Kings' Konnection and HBCU Kings & Queens Conference
This session will explore ideas, tips and resources to help you create a Coronation that is a night to remember and that everyone can enjoy. Learn practical tips you can use to create the perfect night.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
10:00am-11:15am
IV. Lead with your V.O.I.C.E.: The Art of Public Speaking
Roderic Sprowl, M. Div. - National Keynote Speaker & Founding Pastor, Thrive Church Fort Worth, TX
This session teaches essential speaking skills to help Kings and Queens to be confident in front of an audience. Attend this comprehensive workshop to learn how to:
- Connect with your audience
- Get your point across clearly
- Remain calm, cool, and collected
- Breeze through the toughest question-and-answer periods
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
10:00am-11:15am
V. My Sister's Keeper: I AM RJ Voter
Dr. Zsanai Epps, Senior Director, Reproductive Justice Initiatives
Join the Black Women’s Health Imperative’s My Sister’s Keeper (MSK) Program. Our session focuses on building a base through political education around reproductive justice and civic engagement. Our goal is to ensure that HBCU students view civic engagement through a reproductive justice lens.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
10:00am-11:15am
VI. Heavy is the Head
James Ofori, Assistant Director of Assessment and Learner Engagement, Morehouse School Medicine, and Founder & CEO of the J. Ofori Experience, Campaign Consulting & Deja McKinnon, Secondary Educator, Associate Campaign Consultant of the J. Ofori Experience, Campaign Consulting Business
This session will focus on the mental health and etiquette of kings and queens. Key topics that will be discussed include:
Self-Esteem
Social Anxiety
Health
Social Media Etiquette
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
10:00am-11:15am
VII. The Confident Closet
Jada Crisp, Businesswoman, Author, former HBCU Queen (Tennessee State University)
The ultimate guide to helping you build a clothing selection that reflects confidence and royal representation. As Queen, your image is an immediate impression of your University. In this session, you will learn the elements of wardrobe etiquette and identify which styles are appropriate for each occasion.
Audience: Open to All but focused on Queens-Kings, Queens, and Advisors
10:00am-11:15am
10:00am-11:15am
10:00am-11:15am
VIII. The Gift, The Title, and The Promise
Karmeshia Tuck, Founder and Motivational Speaker - USA National Miss District of Columbia, Miss Black District of Colombia 1st Runner Up, Miss CIAA 1st Runner Up, and former HBCU Queen (Virginia State University)
Often times we only discuss the gift that led to the title of Queen, but not the daily promise that we make to ourselves to stay focused and remain successful. In this breakout session, we will discuss the challenges Queens face during their reign and the resources available to help them navigate these issues. We will explore how Queens can build a support system for themselves and feel comfortable discussing any issues with leaders around campus. Regardless of the issue, it is important to have a support system to help you stay focused and remain successful throughout your reign.
Audience: Focus on Queens, open to Queens, Kings, and Advisors
IX. GIRLTREK'S SELF-CARE AUDIT WORKSHOP
Nyra Govan, HBCU/Youth Recruitment Manager, Miss Sophomore 2020-2021(Claflin University)
GirlTREK is honored to present a transformative session designed to help students reflect deeply on their well-being. Through powerful and energizing activities, participants will assess their self-care practices, preparing to step into the next academic year as strong, resilient campus leaders. Inspired by Harriet Tubman's legacy, this workshop is a bold reminder that prioritizing one’s health is an act of survival and empowerment.
As students immerse themselves in the GirlTREK movement, they’ll be encouraged to start walking crews on their campus—fostering community, sisterhood, and accountability throughout the year.
Audience -Queens and Advisors
X. Food for the Soul: Advisors have Feelings
Mary Terry Wiley, Playwright, Psychiatric Nurse, Motivational Speaker. Life Coach
This session gives advisors an introspective look at themselves to see if they are advising internally or externally. It allows advisors to holistically look at themselves and refresh for the upcoming year.
Audience: Advisors only
Breakout Session Two
11:30am-12:45pm
I. BUILDING A POWERFUL KING OR QUEEN -ADVISOR ALLIANCE
Dr. Dale Williams, Founder, Leadership for Queens/HBCU Kings & Queens Conference, and former HBCU Queen (Tennessee State University), Charles H. Galbreath, II ,Juvenile Justice System Reform Consultant, Tennessee State University National Alumni Association President Emeritus, Mr. Tennessee State University 02-03 and Carla Lankford, Founder of Campus Kings and Queens CARES, and former Miss Tennessee State University
A strong alliance between a monarch—king or queen—and their advisor is vital to a successful and meaningful reign. In this engaging and interactive session, presented by former King, Queen and their advisor, participants will learn how to cultivate a relationship built on trust, communication, and mutual respect.
In this session, you’ll discover how to:
- Establish and maintain healthy boundaries
- Communicate expectations clearly and effectively
- Build trust and foster mutual support
- Navigate difficult conversations with confidence and care
- Distinguish between criticism and constructive critique
- Listen actively rather than rely solely on your own perspective
- Believe the best in each other—and bring out the best in one another
Whether you're stepping into the role of royalty or serving as a trusted advisor, this workshop will equip you with the tools to strengthen your alliance with professionalism, excellence, unity, and purpose.
Audience-Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
11:30am-12:45pm
II. Ethical Leadership
Anthony M. Jones Jr., Founder, The Kings’ Konnection/HBCU Kings & Queens Conference
An open and honest approach to ethical behavior and attitudes. This roundtable workshop teaches students how to deal with conflict resolution and how to lead effectively and honestly before their peers.
Audience-Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
11:30am-12:45pm
III. I Am a New Advisor, Now What?
Dr. Michael L. Rainey, Director of First Year Experience and VCAN Coordinator at Virginia State University, former Virginia State University Royal Court and SGA Advisor, 2017 HBCU Kings & Queens Conference Advisor of the Year, and Registration Coordinator, HBCU Kings & Queens Conference
Advising the king and queen can be a little different from advising other student groups. This session will share important information and resources to position new advisors for success.
Audience: Focus on new Royal Court Advisors new to the role. Open to All Advisors
11:30am-12:45pm
IV. Elevate Positive Period Conversations with Me Period.
Dr. Zsanai Epps, Director, Senior Director, Reproductive Justice Initiatives
Join the Black Women's Health Imperative's Positive Period program for a Positive Period Conversation and private screening of our groundbreaking documentary "Me Period." This film about puberty and health discovery features Tabitha Brown, Sheryl Lee Ralph, their daughters, and everyday families.
About the Organization
Since 1983, the Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI) has been the only national organization dedicated solely to improving the health and wellness of our nation’s 21 million Black women and girls – physically, emotionally, and financially. www.bwhi.org
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
11:30am-12:45pm
V. Check YourselF before you wreck the crown: balancing duty over ego in royal Leadership
Travis Fredrick, MBA, Director of Student Engagement and Leadership, Royal Court Advisor, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
This engaging and reflective session is designed to challenge and empower royal court members to understand the difference between personal emotions and professional responsibilities in their leadership roles. "Check Yourself Before You Wreck the Crown" explores the most common emotional, social, and interpersonal challenges that arise when serving as a university ambassador and how unchecked personal reactions can undermine one's ability to lead, represent, and reign with dignity.
Participants will engage in real-talk discussions and scenarios that reflect moments when they must choose duty over ego, representation over retaliation, and poise over pride. Whether navigating criticism, maintaining composure in public, or staying engaged even when morale is low, this workshop offers practical strategies for retaining the crown with grace, integrity, and self-awareness.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the session, participants will:
- Identify common challenges that test emotional maturity in royal leadership roles
- Understand the core expectations of serving as a university ambassador
- Reflect on personal behavior and recognize when ego or feelings may interfere with the mission
- Practice strategies for responding to conflict, burnout, and miscommunication without compromising the crown
Takeaways:
- "Royal Realities" Reflection Guide
- Conflict Response Framework for Student Leaders
- Group discussion materials for future court trainings
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
11:30am-12:45pm
VI. GirlTREK's SELF-CARE AUDIT WORKSHOP
Nyra Govan, HBCU/Youth Recruitment Manager, Miss Sophomore 2020-2021(Claflin University)
GirlTREK is honored to present a transformative session designed to help students reflect deeply on their well-being. Through powerful and energizing activities, participants will assess their self-care practices, preparing to step into the next academic year as strong, resilient campus leaders. Inspired by Harriet Tubman's legacy, this workshop is a bold reminder that prioritizing one’s health is an act of survival and empowerment.
As students immerse themselves in the GirlTREK movement, they’ll be encouraged to start walking crews on their campus—fostering community, sisterhood, and accountability throughout the year.
Audience -Queens and Advisors
11:30am-12:45pm
VII. Part of the Team: Royal Court Workshop
Dolores Rivers, former Class Queen, and 1st Runner-Up to Miss Southern University (Baton Rouge), & Kasseem Smith, former Class King (Mr. Senior-Winston-Salem State University),
This session teaches Royal Court members how to be team players and make their position shine for their class or demographic. Royal Court members learn how to effectively lead and follow in group settings through team-building exercises and royal scenarios.
Audience Royal Court Members only- (Class Kings, Class Queens, or Attendants)
11:30am-12:45pm
11:30am-12:45pm
11:30am-12:45pm
VIII. I WON, NOW WHAT?
James Ofori, Assistant Director of Assessment and Learner Engagement, Morehouse School of Medicine, and Founder & CEO of the J. Ofori Experience, Campaign Consulting, and Deja McKinnon, Secondary Educator, Associate Campaign Consultant of the J. Ofori Experience, Campaign Consulting Business
This session will be geared toward the implementation of the King's and Queen's platform after they have won. The discussion will be based on 5-7 key facts and ideas to help implement your platform through programs and initiatives.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
IX. MISTER AND MISS HBCU COMPETITION Informational
Dr. Jerome Offord, President of the Board of Directors and Chief Operations Officer
Represent your college or university with excellence by learning how to prepare with confidence, purpose, and pride. This workshop is designed to help participants excel in every aspect of the annual Mister and Miss HBCU Competition. From mastering stage presence to perfecting your platform and personal brand, you'll receive expert tips, real-life examples, and actionable strategies to help you stand out.
Whether you're competing for the crown or simply seeking to grow as a student leader, this session will empower you to represent your institution at the highest level. With the right preparation—you could be the next winner.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
X. THE ROYAL PLAYBOOK: How to lead, manage and mentor HBCU Royalty
Led by image architects Dr. Alex Ellis and Ms. Tish Norman—two nationally recognized experts with 40+ years combined experience—this session will elevate your style game and sharpen your professional edge
Advisors play a pivotal role in shaping the success and legacy of HBCU royal courts. This session offers a comprehensive exploration into the multifaceted responsibilities of royal court advisors, providing tools and strategies to effectively mentor student leaders. Participants will engage in interactive discussions,
Share best practices, and develop actionable plans to enhance their advisory approach, ensuring their campus royalty not only shine during their reign but also grow as impactful leaders beyond their tenure.
Audience: Advisors only
1:00pm-2:30pm
Luncheon Keynote Speaker
Breakout Three
2:45pm - 4:00pm
I. Miss National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Informational
Represent your college or university with excellence by learning how to prepare with confidence, purpose, and pride. This workshop is designed to help participants excel in every aspect of the annual Miss NBCA Hall of Fame Competition. From mastering stage presence to perfecting your platform and personal brand, you'll receive expert tips, real-life examples, and actionable strategies to help you stand out.
Whether you're competing for the crown or simply seeking to grow as a student leader, this session will empower you to represent your institution at the highest level. With the right preparation—you could be the next winner.
.
Audience: Focus on Queens open to all Kings, Queens and Advisors
2:45pm - 4:00pm
II. The BRAIN ON BURNOUT- Royal CHECK OUT! THE "UN" OF UNAWARENESS IN MENTAL ILLNESS
A.O. Croft, M.Ed. Former HBCU KING & ADVISOR
Join this engaging and eye-opening session to break down the barriers of mental health stigma and increase awareness of the signs, symptoms, and solutions surrounding mental illness. This interactive presentation will explore the difference between mental health issues and mental illness, how to utilize therapy effectively, and the impact of guilt and shame on self-acceptance. Participants will walk away with a toolkit of practical coping strategies—from fitness to journaling—and insights into prevention methods, including selecting the right therapist and building a mental health prevention plan. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or looking to better assist others, this session will equip you to remove the “un” from unawareness and foster mental wellness in your community.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
2:45pm - 4:00pm
III. CASTLE BUILDING: Cultivating an atmosphere of support, trust, leadership, and empowerment
Charles H. Galbreath, II ,Juvenile Justice System Reform Consultant, Tennessee State University National Alumni Association President Emeritus, Mr. Tennessee State University 02-03
CASTLE Building will empower HBCU Kings with the skills and knowledge necessary to create and maintain an encouraging environment within their communities and institutions. This session focuses on leadership, mentorship, and fostering a supportive atmosphere that promotes personal and collective growth.
CASTLE Building Objectives:
Understand the principles of effective leadership and mentorship.
Develop skills to create an inclusive and supportive environment.
Learn strategies for community engagement and empowerment.
Foster resilience and emotional intelligence among peers.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
2:45pm - 4:00pm
IV. Royalty in the twight zone: maximizing your moment before the crown sets
Travis Fredrick, MBA, Director of Student Engagement and Leadership, Royal Court Advisor, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
Royalty doesn't last forever, but legacy does. "Royalty in the Twilight Zone is a dynamic workshop centered on the importance of time management, intentional goal setting, and purposeful programming within the finite timeframe of a royal court term. Too often, student leaders enter their reign with passion but lack the structure to transform vision into measurable impact before their moment fades.
This session challenges participants to step outside of day-to-day ceremonial duties and reflect on how they use their time, energy, and influence to leave a legacy. Through guided planning tools, interactive reflection, and court-to-campus strategy mapping, participants will walk away with clear objectives and time-aligned plans to reign purposefully.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will:
- Understand the limited window of influence in a royal court term and how to maximize it
- Set SMART goals that align with campus needs and the platform vision
- Use strategic time management tools to balance appearances, programming, and academics
- Create a personalized "Legacy Planning Roadmap" for the remainder of their reign
Takeaways:
- Royal Time Audit & Goal Tracker
- Legacy Planning Worksheet
- Tips for Balancing Ceremonial Roles with Purposeful Impact
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
2:45pm - 4:00pm
V. The Reign Workshop:
Becoming the King/Queen your Campus needs
Shekinah Burden, Former Miss Clark-Atlanta University and Class Queen
As a Retired 4x HBCU Queen I know what it takes to be a Queen
and the true definition of campus royalty. We are a Necessity, not for us, but for the legacy
that is left behind us. By the end of this workshop the students will nonetheless feel
empowered but know how to take lead and set the standard on their campus, How to
present themselves in their roles, how to manage their court, and forever leave their legacy
and so much more. The students will also have a preview of my eBooks on college life and
special discounts just for them to help them succeed in their matriculation.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
.
2:45pm - 4:00pm
VI. Get Elected: Platform and Campaign Development
Dr. Michael L. Rainey, Director of First Year Experience and VCAN Coordinator at Virginia State University, former Virginia State University Royal Court and SGA Advisor, 2017 HBCU Kings & Queens Conference Advisor of the Year, and Registration Coordinator, HBCU Kings & Queens Conference
Are you a current class king or queen? Perhaps you’re runner-up or attendant to the current king or queen? Maybe you’re a vice president, director, or some other position in SGA. Get Elected: Platform and Campaign Development will give you the necessary tools needed to develop a sound and realistic platform and a strong campaign in order to become the next king, queen, or SGA president of your college/university.
Audience: Focus on new Royal Court Advisors new to the role. Open to All Advisors
2:45pm - 4:00pm
VII. The Royal Glamour: Makeup Essentials for Royalty
Beonka Williams, Owner of BBS (Beonka's Beauty Studio), Royal Court Advisor, LeMoyne-Owen College
In “The Royal Glamour: Makeup Essentials for Royalty,” participants will gain invaluable skills in creating a soft, natural, radiant makeup application that enhances their beauty while allowing their confidence to shine through in any setting. Attendees will learn techniques for achieving a flawless complexion, beautifully defined features, and subtle yet captivating eye looks that are perfect for any occasion. By mastering these essential makeup skills, queens will feel empowered to present their best selves in every room they enter, embodying elegance and poise with ease. Join us to transform your makeup routine and embrace your inner royalty!
Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock your Royal Glamour!
Audience -Queens and Advisors
2:45pm - 4:00pm
2:45pm - 4:00pm
2:45pm - 4:00pm
VIII. Kings & Queens CARES: Deep Dive — A Mentorship Call to Lead and Lift
Facilitated by Carla Lankford, Founder of Campus Kings and Queens CARES, and former Miss Tennessee State University
You’ve been crowned—and now you’ve begun your reign. But true leadership is not just about the title—it’s about who you bring with you and how you pour into others.
This advanced session is a powerful next step for those ready to join the CARES mentorship movement—as both mentor and mentee. Designed for HBCU student royalty, this Deep Dive invites you to explore how mentoring can sharpen your leadership, sustain your reign, and build a legacy that lasts beyond the crown.
Whether you're seeking guidance to navigate the challenges of your term or looking to empower others through your experience, this session is your space to connect, reflect, and grow. You’ll learn how to integrate mentorship into your leadership journey with purpose, pride, and power.
This is more than a workshop—it’s a call to lead with legacy and mentor with meaning.
Sign up to be mentored. Sign up to mentor. Sign up to grow.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
IX. Advisor Roundtable: Developing an Effective Royal Court Program
Discussion Leaders:
- Dr. Franklin L. Pressley, Executive Director of Student Life & Leadership, South Carolina State University & 2023 HBCU Kings & Queens Conference Advisor of the Year
- Lyndsay Raymond, Executive Director of Student Success at Lincoln University of PA
- Tai Teamer, Royal Court Advisor, Dillard University
- Dr. Naadiya Hopkins, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Student Engagement and Student Leadership, Fayetteville State University
Open discussion to help Advisors improve their Royal Court leadership program on their campuses through idea sharing, creative input, and best practices that work.
Audience: Advisor only
X. Mental Health for Leaders: The Balancing Act
Chayil Bullock-Mariscal, Co-Founder/Executive Director of The Hadassa Organization, Miss Senior, 2023-2024 (Johnson C. Smith University)
Participants will be introduced to strategies for maintaining mental well-being while managing leadership roles. They will also learn practical techniques and routines such as mindfulness, self-care practices, and setting boundaries, as well as how to stay empowered and uplifted, even in the darkest times.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
4:15pm
Group Photo
4:30pm
8:00pm
Depart to hotel /Dinner on your own
The Royal Processional
(Please wear comfortable shoes/Line up in the hotel hallway in front of PJ’s Coffee Shop)
(After 5 attire required)
Please wear mask
9:00pm - 1:00am
The Grand Ballroom
Royal Academy Awards/ Masquerade Ball
(After 5 attire required)
Please wear mask
Sunday, July 27, 2025
9:00am - 11:00am
The Grand Ballroom
IT WILL BE ALL WHITE-CALL TO ACTION- CLOSING BREAKFAST
(Kindly be aware that this event requires a separate ticket purchase. It is a ticketed-only event, and tickets must be secured by the registration deadline)
The All-White Closing Breakfast marks the grand finale of the HBCU Kings & Queens Conference, an event dedicated to empowering and uplifting the next generation of leaders. In this all-white gathering, participants will come together in a moment of reflection, celebration, and inspiration. The breakfast will not only serve as a time to commemorate the powerful experiences of the conference but also as a call to action for all attendees to take the knowledge, connections, and insights they've gained and use them to create meaningful change in their communities.
As we close this chapter, let’s unite in a call to action — to continue the work, break barriers, and lead with purpose.