HBCU Kings & Queens Conference

Welcome & Breakfast
2026-07-18 08:30 - 21:30 (America/Denver)

BREAKOUTS
2026-07-18 10:00 - 11:00
BREAKOUT I:
Polished & Powerful
Dr. Alex Ellis, Award-winning Author, Renowned Speaker, Distinguished Mentor, and Founder of Tied to Greatness, & Tish Norman, Founder of a Boutique Learning and Development Consultancy, TLN, Inc., Specializing 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. 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.
BREAKOUT II:
Fit for a Queen
Carrie Charlick, Founder, Essential Bodywear
“Change your bra, Change your life!” As queens, confidence begins with the right foundation. This empowering session will highlight the importance of proper fit, support, and presentation—because what you wear underneath impacts how you carry yourself on the outside. Participants will learn how the right underfit enhances posture, comfort, confidence, and the overall appearance of any outfit, helping every queen look and feel her best while representing her campus and crown with poise and excellence.
BREAKOUT III: confirmed
Planning the Perfect Coronation
Anthony M. Jones, Jr., Founder of The Kings’ Konnection/HBCU Kings & Queens Conference and Acting Vice President of Student Affairs, Talladega College
Learn practical tips you can use to create the perfect night. From selecting themes and coordinating logistics to creating memorable moments and meaningful traditions, this session will help participants plan a coronation experience that reflects excellence, elegance, and school pride.
BREAKOUT IV:
It Was Never About You: Building a Legacy That Outlives Us All
Armani Jones, 23rd Mister Florida A&M University (2022–2023) & Devin Nobles, the 24th Mister Florida A&M University (2023–2024)

This session is designed as an interactive leadership experience that encourages student leaders to rethink the purpose, privilege, and responsibility of their roles. Participants will explore three core themes: Purpose, Legacy, and Integrity as the foundation of sustainable, impact-driven leadership.
The session aims to help newly crowned kings and queens deepen their understanding of service, clarify their leadership intentions, and develop a personalized commitment to leading with authenticity and humility.

BREAKOUT V:
Royal Advocacy: Leading the Charge for Reproductive Justice
Shelby Campbell, Program Coordinator, Reproductive Justice Initiatives, and Diamond Knox-Jackson, J.D., C.L.A., Program Manager, Advocacy & Leadership Development, Reproductive Justice Initiatives

The goal of this session is to ensure that HBCU students view civic engagement through a reproductive justice lens.
BREAKOUT VI:
Heavy is the Head
Dr. James Ofori, Assistant Director of Assessment and Learner Engagement, Morehouse School of 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. Participants will explore the importance of self-awareness, emotional wellness, professionalism, and maintaining composure while serving in highly visible leadership roles. Attendees will also gain practical strategies for balancing the pressures of leadership while representing their institution with confidence, class, and integrity.
BREAKOUT VII:
The Confident Closet
Jada Crisp, Businesswoman, Author, and Miss Tennessee State University, 2019-2020

The ultimate guide to helping you build a clothing selection that reflects confidence and royal representation. Participants will learn how to develop a polished personal style, dress appropriately for various appearances and events, and use fashion as a tool to enhance professionalism, presence, and self-confidence while representing their campus and crown.
BREAKOUT VIII:
The Gift, The Title, and The Promise
Karmeshia Tuck, Founder and Motivational Speaker – USA National Miss District of Columbia, Miss Black District of Columbia 1st Runner Up, Miss CIAA 1st Runner Up, and former HBCU Queen (Virginia State University).

In this breakout session, participants will discuss the challenges queens face during their reign and the resources available to help them navigate these issues.
BREAKOUT IX:
How to Gain Capital, Fundraising & Donors 101 for your Reign
Leaundra Sanders, Funding the Dream- Development Director, Miss Junior at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff 2004-05.

Explores the critical role of fundraising in a successful Royal Court reign, equipping Kings, Queens, and their courts with practical strategies to secure funding for scholarships, travel, programming, and official responsibilities. Drawing from her extensive experience in higher education fundraising and student affairs—as well as her lived experience as a former queen- she will share real-world insights, proven techniques, and actionable tools. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how to build sustainable support, engage stakeholders, and confidently lead financial conversations that elevate both their platform and their impact.
BREAKOUT X:
Workplace Survival Guide: Mastering the Soft Skills for Success
Latyya McIntyre, Business Execution Associate, Early Career Sourcing (North Carolina A&T State University) & Usman Tijani, Senior Assistant Vice President, Early Career Sourcing (Delaware State University)

In this interactive session, students will strengthen key soft skills that drive early career success, including professional communication, relationship-building, conflict navigation, and workplace etiquette.
BREAKOUT XI:
I Am a New Advisor, Now What? (All advisors welcome, geared toward new advisors)
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

This session will share important information and resources to position new advisors for success. Participants will gain practical tools, guidance, and strategies to effectively support and mentor student leaders. The session will also provide insight into building strong relationships, navigating challenges, and creating a positive and impactful advising experience on campus.

BREAKOUTS
2026-07-18 11:30 - 13:00
BREAKOUT I:
Building a Powerful King or Queen – Advisor Alliance
Dr. Dale Williams, Founder, Leadership for Queens/HBCU Kings & Queens Conference, and Miss Tennessee State University 1992-93, Charles H. Galbreath, II, Juvenile Justice System Reform Consultant, Tennessee State University National Alumni Association President Emeritus, and Mister Tennessee State University,2002-2003 and Carla Lankford, Founder of Campus Kings & Queens CARES, and Miss (Tennessee State University, 2003-2004.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 a former king, queen, and their advisor, participants will learn how to cultivate a relationship built on trust, communication, and mutual respect.
BREAKOUT II:
Ethical Leadership
Anthony M. Jones, Jr., Founder of The Kings’ Konnection/HBCU Kings & Queens Conference and Acting Vice President of Student Affairs, Talladega College

This roundtable workshop teaches students how to navigate conflict resolution and lead effectively and honestly among their peers. Participants will explore the importance of integrity, accountability, and ethical decision-making in leadership roles. Through discussion and real-life scenarios, students will gain practical strategies for handling difficult situations, maintaining professionalism, and building trust within their organizations and communities.
BREAKOUT III:
Oh, To Be a King… But Do You Know What It Costs? The Weight of the Crown
Earl (EJ) Robinson Jr. Communications Practitioner, Mister Bethune-Cookman University 2019-20

An honest and empowering conversation designed specifically for HBCU Kings navigating the visible and invisible responsibilities of leadership. While titles, recognition, and influence are often celebrated, this session explores the emotional, mental, academic, and personal sacrifices that can come with serving as a campus King. Through storytelling, reflection, and real-life experiences, participants will examine the pressures of always being “on,” balancing personal identity with public expectations, managing mental health, handling criticism, and leading with integrity while carrying the weight of representation. This session will challenge Kings to redefine leadership beyond image and performance by embracing authenticity, accountability, emotional wellness, and purpose-driven service. Attendees will leave encouraged, equipped, and reminded that wearing the crown is not just about being seen; it is about understanding the responsibility, discipline, and self-awareness required to sustain impactful leadership
BREAKOUT IV:
Level the Court: Reproductive Power, Royal Voice
Raven McClellan, MPH Program Coordinator, Reproductive Justice Initiatives, and Noelle Mobley, MPH Program Manager, Outreach & Engagement, Reproductive Justice Initiatives
As HBCU kings and queens, your voice holds influence. This mini-session is designed to activate it.
BREAKOUT V:
Playing the Role vs. Becoming the Leader
Travis Fredrick, MBA, Assistant Director of New Student Experiences and Student Engagement, Bowie State University

Playing the Role vs. Becoming the Leader” is a reflective leadership session focused on authenticity, confidence, and identity within leadership roles. Participants will explore the difference between performative and authentic leadership, examine the impact of external expectations, and gain practical strategies to lead with purpose, confidence, and self-awareness.

BREAKOUT VI:
The Royal Glamour: Makeup Essentials for Royalty
Dyonna Nelson, Educator and Miss Bowie State University 2019-2020

This interactive beauty session will introduce attendees to essential makeup techniques designed to elevate confidence and enhance their royal presence. Participants will learn how to create a polished complexion, define their natural features, and achieve elegant, camera-ready looks suitable for appearances, events, and everyday leadership. From subtle glam to signature style, this workshop will help students present themselves with confidence, professionalism, and poise.

BREAKOUT VII:
A Part of the Team: Royal Court Workshop (Royal Court members only)
Dolores Rivers, former HBCU Class Queen, and 1st Runner Up to Miss Southern University (Baton Rouge), & Kasseem Smith, former HBCU Class King (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. Participants will learn the importance of collaboration, communication, and representing their peers with pride and professionalism. The session will also focus on strengthening leadership skills, supporting fellow court members, and creating a positive impact on campus through unity and service.
BREAKOUT VIII:
I Won, Now What?
Dr. James Ofori, Assistant Director of Assessment and Learner Engagement, Morehouse School of 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 be geared toward the implementation of the King and Queen platforms after they have won.
BREAKOUT IX:
Workplace Survival Guide: Mastering the Soft Skills for Success
Latyya McIntyre – Business Execution Associate, Early Career Sourcing (North Carolina A&T State University Alumna) & Usman Tijani, Senior Assistant Vice President, Early Career Sourcing (Delaware State University Alumnus)

In this interactive session, students will strengthen key soft skills that drive early career success, including professional communication, relationship-building, conflict navigation, and workplace etiquette.
BREAKOUT X
Who Were You Before the Spotlight Found You? Anchoring Identity at the Beginning of Your Reign
Armani Jones, 23rd Mister Florida A&M University (2022–2023) & Devin Nobles, the 24th Mister Florida A&M University (2023–2024)

This interactive session helps newly selected HBCU Kings and Queens begin their reign grounded in authenticity by reconnecting with their pre-crown identity, navigating the pressures of visibility and expectation, and developing practices to stay centered and lead with purpose.
BREAKOUT XI
The Royal Playbook: How to Lead, Manage, and Mentor HBCU Royalty
Dr. Alex Ellis & Ms. Tish Norman—two nationally recognized experts with 40+ years combined experience

This session offers a comprehensive exploration into the multifaceted responsibilities of royal court advisors, providing tools and strategies to effectively mentor student leaders.

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. Lunch

BREAKOUT
2026-07-18 15:00 - 16:00
BREAKOUT I:
Mister and Miss HBCU Competition Informational
Dr. Jerome Offord, Jr., President & CEO, Mister HBCU Kings’ Leadership Conference and Competition, Inc

This high-energy workshop is your launchpad to greatness, designed to ignite your confidence and help you shine in every moment of the annual Mister and Miss HBCU Competition.

BREAKOUT II:
The Crowned Standard: Leading with Purpose, Power, and Legacy
Michael C. Prescot, Jr., B.A., 2nd Year MBA Candidate, Graves School of Business and Management, Mister Philander Smith University, 2023-2024, Royal Court Coach, Morgan State University
A dynamic and transformative workshop designed for HBCU kings and queens who are ready to elevate their leadership beyond titles and traditions. This session challenges participants to redefine what it means to wear the crown by embracing a standard rooted in purpose, service, and excellence. Through interactive activities, real-life scenarios, and guided reflection, participants will explore how to maximize their platform, lead with authenticity, and build a legacy that extends far beyond their reign. This workshop is ideal for student leaders committed to representing their institutions with impact and intention.
BREAKOUT 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, and former HBCU King (Tennessee State University)

CASTLE Building will empower HBCU kings with the skills and knowledge necessary to create and maintain an encouraging environment within their communities and institutions.
BREAKOUT IV:
Rebuilding a Broken Court: Leadership in Dysfunction
Travis Fredrick, MBA, Assistant Director of New Student Experiences and Student Engagement, Bowie State University
A leadership development session focused on navigating challenges within Royal Court teams. Participants will learn strategies to address conflict, rebuild trust, improve communication, and restore accountability while maintaining professionalism and leadership excellence. This session encourages leaders to turn difficult situations into opportunities for growth, stronger teamwork, and positive change.
BREAKOUT V:
Beyond the Crown: Discovering the Superpower Within
Reginald Shareef, Technologist, Software Engineer, Entrepreneur, Artist, Philanthropist, and former HBCU King (Tennessee State University)
In this journey of self-discovery, participants will connect to what makes them truly unique. Through interactive discussions and self-reflection, participants will learn to recognize their unique gifts and characteristics, harness them as superpowers, and unlock personal and professional success.
BREAKOUT 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
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.

BREAKOUT VII:

Finally Over It: Releasing the Strong Black Woman Stigma Through Emotional Intelligence
Ariana Rodriguez, Associate Director of Residential Education and Co-Royal Court Advisor at Clark Atlanta University
This bold, reflective session for HBCU Court Queens and Miss University titleholders who are tired of carrying the crown, the pressure, and everyone else’s expectations in silence. Inspired by Summer Walker’s Finally Over It, this session challenges queens to release perfection, set boundaries, and lead with emotional intelligence—because being “over it” may be the first step to finally choosing yourself
BREAKOUT VIII:
Kings & Queens CARES: Deep Dive — A Mentorship Call to Lead and Lift
Carla Lankford, Founder of Campus Kings & Queens CARES, and Miss Tennessee State University 2003-2004

This advanced session is a powerful next step for those ready to join the CARES mentorship movement—as both mentor and mentee.

BREAKOUT IX:

Crowned & Called: Build Your Brand. Command the Room. Leave a Legacy
Courtney Turner, Founder of Dapper Distinguished Men Society, Mister Black North Carolina,2014–2015

This workshop is designed to help Kings and Queens define and articulate a clear personal brand that aligns with their platform, values, and long-term leadership goals. Participants will strengthen their professional presence through intentional image awareness, communication, etiquette, and confidence-building strategies that prepare them to navigate any room or opportunity with purpose. The session will also focus on developing meaningful networking skills that go beyond surface-level interactions while enhancing public speaking and communication abilities to effectively represent themselves, their institutions, and their platforms with excellence.

BREAKOUT XI:

Curated Crowns: Reigning with Purpose, From Campus Queen to Culture Shifter
Tekeya L. Peterson, Assistant Director of Student Leadership Development
Howard University

This transformative session is designed exclusively for HBCU Campus Queens. Women who reign not just with crowns, but with character, confidence, and commitment. As the face of your institution, you are more than a symbol; you are a strategist, a storyteller, and a servant-leader.

BREAKOUT XI:
Advisor Roundtable: BEST PRACTICES for an Effective Royal Court Program
4:15 p.m. Group Photo and Departure
8:00 p.m. The Royal Processional (Comfortable shoes strongly encouraged/Line up in the hotel lobby)

9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. Royal Academy Awards/Masquerade Ball (Napoleon Ballroom, 3rd floor)
(Attire: formal preferred, semi-formal required)

Breakfast- ROUX BISTRO (2nd floor)
2026-07-19 06:30 - 08:30 | Sheraton New Orleans Hotel

IT WILL BE ALL WHITE-CALL TO ACTION-CLOSING
2026-07-19 09:00 - 11:00
(Waterbury Ballroom)
(Ceremony begins promptly at 9:am)
This 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.
(Ticketed Event Only – Pre Registration Required)
