Ruby Hardy-Minter Advisor of the Year Award
Honors the legacy of Mrs. Ruby Hardy-Minter, recognizing Advisors who demonstrate exceptional mentorship, leadership, and dedication to supporting Kings, Queens, and Royal Courts.
At LeMoyne-Owen College, she set a powerful standard for leadership by founding the Royal Connection Leadership Organization in 2004, creating a structured pathway to train and empower student leaders. A two-time Advisor of the Year recipient (2012, 2018), she remains the only advisor to receive this honor twice.
For more than 20 years, Mrs. Minter was a devoted supporter of the HBCU Kings & Queens Conference, serving as a mentor, advocate, and champion for student success. This award continues her legacy by recognizing advisors who go above and beyond in guiding Kings, Queens, and their Royal Courts.
Submit a Nomination
Recognize an advisor making a meaningful difference in student leadership.
What This Award Represents
- Excellence in mentorship
- Commitment to student leadership
- Passion for Royal Court development
- Impactful campus engagement
HBCU Kings & Queens COLLECTIVE MENTORSHIP INITIATIVE
A leadership and mentorship initiative designed to help student royalty lead with purpose, serve their communities, and create lasting impact.
Based on her work with the National CARES Mentoring Movement, founded by Susan L. Taylor, this program draws inspiration from former HBCU Queen Carla Lankford, who established the college-based model specifically designed to support student royalty. Her vision has created a pathway for Kings and Queens to receive structured mentorship while navigating the unique responsibilities of their roles.
How to Participate
- Join a national network
- Attend monthly virtual sessions
- Lead service initiatives on campus
What You’ll Gain
- Leadership coaching and mentorship
- Service project resources
- National network of peers
- Opportunities to grow your impact
Contact
Mrs. Carla Lankford
HBCUkqcollective@gmail.com
2025 Winners
Clark Atlanta University – Cameron Foreman, Mister Clark Atlanta University
Bethune Cookman University – Wumiya Calixte, Miss Junior
Most Impressive Scholarship Powered by Wells Fargo
Through the generous support of Wells Fargo, the HBCU Kings & Queens Conference is proud to award two $1,500 scholarships to the recipients of the Most Impressive King and Most Impressive Queen Awards. Open to students of all majors, these scholarships recognize individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professionalism, academic achievement, and a commitment to excellence.
To be considered, all Kings and Queens must submit a professional résumé prior to the start of the conference. Résumés will be reviewed by Wells Fargo, and selected finalists may be invited to meet with Wells Fargo representatives during the conference as part of the scholarship selection process. The scholarship recipients will be announced during the conference's premier event—the Royal Academy Awards.
We encourage every King and Queen to take advantage of this outstanding opportunity by submitting a polished résumé that highlights their leadership, accomplishments, campus involvement, work experience, and community service. This is your chance to compete for one of the conference's highest honors while connecting with one of our premier corporate partners.