Thursday, July 20, 2023 (last updated 7/31/2023)
2:00pm - 7:00pm
Grand Ballroom Foyer
3:00pm - 5:00pm
Grand Ballroom Foyer
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Evangeline C
Registration
Check-In. Pick up registration materials.
PRE-CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES
Internship and Career Fair hosted by 
CAPITAL ONE MEET AND GREET
6:30pm - 7:45pm
Grand Ballroom
Greetings / Introduction / Conference Overview
Introduction of HBCU Royalty
8:00pm
Grand Ballroom
Opening Speaker
Lauren Woulard, Award-Winning Publicist | Director, Communications at Paramount, MTV Entertainment Studios (MTV, Comedy Central, Paramount Network, Pop TV, Showtime, Smithsonian Channel, TV Land, CMT, Logo), Howard University, Alumna
9:30pm
The Jazz Playhouse, Fleur de Lis & Courtyard
Opening Reception
Great opportunity to meet and greet all attendees from different schools.
Friday, July 21, 2023
9:00am - 10:15am
Grand Ballroom
Introduction and Conference Overview: The Historical Significance of HBCU Royalty
Dale Williams, Ph.D. founder of Leadership for Queens. HBCU Kings and Queens Conference will give 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. (Miss Tennesee State 1992-93)
10:30am - 11:30am
Grand Ballroom
Mental Management: Mastering your Mind and Emotions
Dr. Chanda Reynolds, M.S., M.A., Psy.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Ms. Black District of Columbia, USA, 2024
This session focuses on:
- Postgraduate stress
- Mental Health
- Managing stress as a leader or a place of power
- Emotional Wellness techniques
- Transgenerational trauma
11:45am - 12:30pm
12:45pm-2:15 (lunch)
Grand Ballroom
LUNCH AND QUICK Buffet & Hotel Etiquette Tips
Whether in the Royal Court or Royal Sonesta, traveling for work or for 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 4-day conference experience.
Communication Specialist Cassandra Gray, Voiceover Talent, Career Advisor
2:30pm - 4:15pm
Acadia Suite
Breakout Session
Queens: Queening with a Healing Heart
(Queens only)
Lecia Rives, ESQ. Comedienne. Motivational Speaker. Author
Why is it we only talk to leaders about leading without ever examining the heart or broken heart they bring to the leader position? Well, this interactive keynote presentation focuses on leaders and the heartbreaks they are seldom allowed to discuss. This presentation is filled with a gamut of emotions from start to finish. This is a must attend presentation for anyone who finds themselves at the top of their game but has never touched the bottom of their soul!
2:30pm - 4:15pm
Fleur De Lis
2:30pm - 4:15pm
Evangeline A&B
Breakout Session for Kings: Black Male Empowerment Panel:
(Kings only)
A candid discussion on issues facing black males striving for success. Panelists share real-life lessons about how to overcome societal, professional, and personal challenges.
- Taylor Getwood, Mister HBCU, former Mr. Texas Southern University
- Anthony M. Jones, Founder of Kings’ Konnection/HBCU Kings and Queens Conf.
- Faruq Salaam, Entrepreneur, Veteran
- Roderic L. Sprowl, National Keynote Speaker & Founding Pastor, Thrive Church
- James Ofori, Assistant Director of Assessment and Learner Engagement, Morehouse School Medicine &Founder and CEO of the J. Ofori Experience, Campaign Consulting
Breakout Session for Advisors: Introductions, Overview of the Learning Outcomes for the Conference & Speed Dating for Networking
(Advisors only)
Dale Williams, PhD, Founder Leadership for Queens and HBCU Kings & Queens Conference, former HBCU Queen and James Lunnermon Director of Campus Events at Delaware State University and Coordinator of NASAP
This networking session gives Advisors the opportunity to meet and dialogue with conference organizers to address advising concerns, best practices, and current trends as well as tips to help one advise more effectively.
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 22, 2023
7:45am
Meet in Hotel Lobby
Depart Hotel for Xavier University of Louisiana, 1 Drexel Drive, New Orleans, LA, 504.486.7411
8:30am - 9:30am
University Center Ballroom
Welcome/Breakfast
Official Greetings from University Xavier University of Louisiana
9:45am - 11:00am
Breakout Session One
9:45am-11:00am
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 160
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.
9:45am-11:00am
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 162
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!
9:45am-11:00am
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 115
III. Planning the Perfect Coronation
Anthony M. Jones, Jr. Founder of the Kings' Konnection and HBCU Kings and 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.
9:45am-11:00am
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 140
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
9:45am-11:00am
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 135
V. My Sister's Keeper: Protecting Black Women on HBCU Campuses
Zsanai Epps, MPH, CHESSenior Director, Reproductive Justice Initiatives
Join the Black Women’s Health Imperative’s My Sister’s Keeper (MSK) Program for a session aimed to address the unique challenges faced by Black Women on HBCU campuses and explore strategies to empower and protect your well-being. During this interactive session, we will delve into:
- What it means to be a leader on campus
- Issues affecting the health and safety of Black women on your campus
- Effective ways to lead by example as it relates to prioritizing your health and well-being during your reign
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. My Sister’s Keeper (MSK) is a BWHI signature program created to empower young Black women ages 18-30 to be powerful advocates and leaders. www.bwhi.org/msk
9:45am-11:00am
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 173
VI. A Part of the Team: Royal Court Workshop (royal court members only)
Dolores Rivers (former 1st Attendant to Miss Southern University & former Miss Freshman (Baton Rouge) and Kasseem Smith (former Mister Senior, Winston-Salem State University)
(Royal Court Members Only)
This session teaches royal court members not only to be team players but also how to make their position shine for their class or demographic. Team building exercises and royal scenarios, royal court members learn how to effectively lead and follow in group settings.
9:45am-11:00am
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 102
VII. From Crown to CAreer: Leveraging your Career like Royalty
Powered by Capital One
Capital One Presenters: Olutoyin Asubiojo HBCU/HSI Partnerships, Events, and Invest Schools Lead; Kyejah Smith Principal HR Coordinator, HBCU/HSI Partnerships & Events Diversity, Early Engagement, and Partnerships; Pamela Weaver Lead Recruiter, HBCU & HSI Partnerships & Events, Students & Grads Recruiting and Voices RVA Co-Lead Community Engagement; Usman Tijani, Diversity Program Manager, and Brenton Logan, Senior Diversity and Inclusion Recruiter
This session focuses on leveraging your leadership skills from the campus environment to the corporate environment. Learn to discuss how to communicate your accomplishments and influence others with class and professional precision.
9:45am-11:00am
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 175
9:45am-11:00am
University Center, Room 205
VIII. 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 , and Deja McKinnon, Secondary Educator, Associate Campaign Consultant of the J. Ofori Experience, Campaign Consulting Business (former Miss Savannah State)
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
IX. Food for the Soul: Advisors have Feelings
(Advisors only)
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.
Breakout Session Two
11:15am-12:30pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 173
I. 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 2013 1st Runner Up, and Miss Virginia State University 2012-13
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.
11:15am - 12:30pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 115
II. Ethical Leadership
Anthony M. Jones Jr., Founder of Kings’ Konnection and HBCU Kings and Queens Conference
An open and honest approach about 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.
11:15am - 12:30pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 162
III. Get Elected: Platform and Campaign Development
Dr. Michael L. Rainey, Director of Programs and Conference Registration for HBCU Kings & Queens Conference, Coordinator of Freshman Studies at Virginia State University, former Advisor to Mister and Miss Virginia State University and The Royal Court and Student Government Association, and named the 2017 HBCU Kings & Queens Advisor of the Year.
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.
11:15am - 12:30pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 135
IV. The Confident Closet
Jada Crisp, Businesswoman, Author, Miss Tennessee State University 2019-20
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.
11:15am - 12:30pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 140
V. Who is Your Emotional PR Person?
Travis Fredrick, MBA, Director of Student Activities and Leadership, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
In the scope of student leadership, students have moments of irrational thoughts, but who is there to help that student navigate those feelings to not turn those irrational thoughts into actions? This event is in place to help students identify a person or team to help them with the aforementioned things.
Goals/Objectives:
- Participants will understand Personal Public Relations.
- Participants will be able to identify the characteristics of an Emotional PR Person.
- Participants will be able to identify an Emotional PR Person or Team.
11:15am - 12:30pm
Norman C. Francis Annex,
Room 102
VI. The Ultimate Campaign for Your Future Role
Powered by Capital One
Capital One Presenters: Olutoyin Asubiojo HBCU/HSI Partnerships, Events, and Invest Schools Lead; Kyejah Smith Principal HR Coordinator • HBCU/HSI Partnerships & Events Diversity; Early Engagement, and Partnerships; Pamela Weaver Lead Recruiter; HBCU & HSI Partnerships & Events, Students & Grads Recruiting and Voices RVA Co-Lead Community Engagement; Usman Tijani, Diversity Program Manager at Capital One, and Brenton Logan, Senior Diversity and Inclusion Recruiter at Capital One
This session focuses on leveraging your leadership skills from the campus environment to the corporate environment. Learn to discuss how to communicate your accomplishments and influence others with class and professional precision.
11:15am - 12:30pm
Norman C. Francis Annex,
Room 160
VII. Confessions of a retired HBCU Queen: Media Training for Royals
Jahylin McKee, CEO & Founder, JMcKee & Co.; 78th Miss Savannah State University
In this session, we will explore the crucial role of public relations in shaping and managing the public image of HBCU kings and queens. We will discuss how effective public relations can help to create and maintain a positive reputation for HBCU kings and queens, both individually and collectively.
✔ We will cover topics such as building a personal brand, creating a social media strategy, and developing effective communication skills. We will also discuss how to handle media interviews, crisis communication, and public speaking engagements.
✔ Our expert speaker will share real-world examples of successful public relations strategies and offer tips and insights on how HBCU queens and kings can leverage public relations to enhance their public image.
✔ Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussions with our speaker and fellow attendees. By the end of this session, attendees will have a better understanding of the importance of public relations and how to apply it to their personal and professional lives as HBCU queens and kings.
11:15am - 12:30pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 175
11:15am - 12:30pm
University Center,
Room 205
VIII. I WON, NOW WHAT?
James Ofori, Assistant Director of Assessment and Learner Engagement, Morehouse School 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 (Former Miss Savannah State University)
This session will be geared toward the implementation of the kings and queens 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.
IX. Food for the Soul: Advisors have Feelings
(Advisors only)
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.
12:30pm - 1:45pm
University Center Ballroom
Luncheon Keynote Speaker: "Never Give Up"
Juanita Brown Ingram, Esq., Mrs. Universe 2022-2023
Breakout Three
2:00pm - 3:15pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 115
I. Miss National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Informational
Joy Watson, Miss NBCA Hall of Fame 2022-23, and Dale Williams, PhD, Founder Leadership for Queens/Former HBCU Queen
This session will cover competition details as well as personal advice and experience from organizers and participants.
Joy Watson, Former Miss Virginia State University and the reigning Miss National Black College Alumni (NBCA) Hall of Fame 2022-2023, 2023-2025 Miss International Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.
2:00pm - 3:15pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 175
II. Mister HBCU Informational
Mister HBCU Informational -Dr. Jerome Offord, Jr., Director of Mister HBCU Competition, and Taylor Getwood, Mister HBCU 2022-23
This session will cover competition details as well as personal advice and experience from organizers and participants.
Taylor Getwood, Former Mister Texas Southern University and the reigning Mister HBCU 2022-2023
2:00pm - 3:15pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 160
III. Confessions of a Retired HBCU Queen: From HBCU Queen to PR CEO -The Things They Won't Tell You
Jahylin McKee, CEO & Founder, JMcKee & Co., and the 78th Miss Savannah State University
This session aims to inspire and equip HBCU kings and queens with valuable insights and tips for success in the dynamic world of public relations, particularly in the entertainment industry. Drawing from personal experiences as a former HBCU Queen, Jahylin McKee, who rose to become the CEO of a thriving PR agency, will share practical advice and strategies to navigate your reign, build a strong personal brand, and excel beyond graduation and life after the crown. Participants will gain valuable knowledge about the PR industry, learn from real-life examples, and receive actionable tips to help them make a lasting impact in their future careers.
2:00pm - 3:15pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 140
IV. Student Leader = Public Figure: The Beyonce’ Effect: Controlling the Narrative
Travis Fredrick, MBA, Director of Student Activities and Leadership, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
Leadership and communication development program LEADERSHIP AND INTENSE TEAM BUILDING TRAINING
Student Leaders assume responsibilities that push them to a Public Figure status on Campus. Understanding the connection between these two things could help student leaders better understand their influence on the campus. This event will bring to continuousness that student leaders are privileged but to a large extent their lives become public consumption on the campus and sometimes nationally.
Goals/Objectives:
- Participants will understand the concept of Public Figures.
- Participants will be able to associate the Concept of Public Figures with Student Leadership.
- Participants will be able to apply methods of a known public figure to their leadership.
2:00pm - 3:15pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 135
V. Using Your Platform to Elevate the Positive Period Conversation
Zsanai Epps, MPH, CHESSenior Director, Reproductive Justice Initiatives
Join the Black Women's Health Imperative's Positive Period program for a Positive Period Conversation. The Positive Period Conversation will provide medically accurate menstrual education, a safe space for authentic storytelling, and will serve as a mobilization convening for menstrual insecurity advocacy.
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. My Sister’s Keeper (MSK) is a BWHI signature program created to empower young Black women ages 18-30 to be powerful advocates and leaders. www.bwhi.org/msk
2:00pm - 3:15pm
Norman C. Francis Annex, Room 162
VI. I am a New Advisor...Now What?
Dr. Michael L. Rainey, Director of Programs and Conference Registration for HBCU Kings & Queens Conference, Coordinator of Freshman Studies at Virginia State University, former Advisor to Mister and Miss Virginia State University and The Royal Court and Student Government Association, and named the 2017 HBCU Kings & Queens Advisor of the Year.
(All advisors welcome, geared toward new advisors)
Advising the King and Queen can be a little different from advising other student groups. This session will give important information and resources to new advisors
2:00pm - 3:15pm
Norman C. Francis Annex,
Room 173
VII. What You're Faced with as the Face of the University
Karmeshia Tuck-Founder and Motivational Speaker-USA National Miss District of Columbia, Miss Black District of Columbia 1st Runner Up, Miss CIAA 2013 1st Runner Up, and Miss Virginia State University
When representing a university, it is important to remember to also represent yourself. It is important to stay true to who you are and maintain your own personal values, while still representing the university in a positive manner. This means being mindful of how you present yourself on social media and other platforms, as well as how you interact with people both inside and outside of the university. It also means being aware of the university's values and mission and striving to represent them in your own words and actions. Representing a university can be a great privilege, but it is also important to remember to represent yourself in the same regard.
2:00pm - 3:15pm
Norman C. Francis Annex,
Room 102
2:00pm - 3:15pm
University Center
Room 205
VIII. Unlocking the Power of Partnerships powered by Capital ONe
Usman Tijani, Diversity Program Manager at Capital One
Join us as we dive deep into the art of understanding and evaluating collaborations. Get ready to be captivated as we unveil our groundbreaking initiative, the 'Faculty Forum,' fostering an innovative bridge between our company and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). Discover how this transformative initiative is set to revolutionize academia-industry connections and empower the next generation of diverse leaders.
IX. Advisor Roundtable: Developing an Effective Royal Court Program
Discussion Leaders:
- Brittney Dabney, 2022-2023 HBCU Kings & Queens Advisor of the Year, Communications and Marketing Specialist at Tuskegee University, and former HBCU Queen
- Sharrone Godfrey, Director, Center for Student Involvement at Xavier University
- Sierra N. Blanchard, JD, Assistant Director, Center for Student Involvement at Xavier University
- Dr. Franklin L. Pressley, Executive Director of Student Life & Leadership at South Carolina State University
3:30pm
Group Photo
4:00pm
Depart to hotel /Dinner on your own
9:00pm - 1:00am
Grand Ballroom
Royal Academy Awards/ Masquerade Ball
(After 5 attire required)
Please wear mask
Sunday, July 23, 2023
7:30am - 8:45am
Evangeline Suite & Foyer
9:00am - 11:00am
Grand Ballroom
Farewell Breakfast
Words of Inspiration
Mary Terry Wiley, Playwright, Psychiatric Nurse, Motivational Speaker. Life Coach
