Thursday, July 24, 2025
2:00pm - 7:00pm
Grand Ballroom Foyer
2:00pm - 6:00pm
PRE-CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES
Wells Fargo Career & Internship Opportunity Meet and Greet
Explore. Connect. Apply. Succeed.
Meet key Wells Fargo officials, submit your resume early, and unlock access to internships, scholarships, and full-time roles across all majors.
Top candidates qualify for the “Most Impressive King or Queen” Scholarship Award—announced at the Royal Academy Awards!
Open to all majors. Don’t miss this chance to launch your career with a national leader in finance.
3:00pm- 4:00pm
New Advisor Orientation (All Advisors Welcome)
6:30pm - 7:30pm
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.
Friday, July 25, 2025
7:00am -8:45am
Evangeline Suite & Foyer
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, & Tish Norman, Founder of a Boutique Learning and Development Consultancy, TLN, Inc., Norman 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 & 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
Kings & Queens CARES- LEADING with Legacy
Carla Lankford, Founder, Campus Kings & Queens CARES, and former HBCU Queen (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.
1:00pm-2:15pm (lunch)
Grand Ballroom
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.
Breakout Session
2:30pm - 4:15pm
Acadia Suite (2nd flr)
Breakout Session
Queens: Queening with a Healing Heart:
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 (Tennessee State University)
Audience-Queens only
2:30pm - 4:15pm
Fleur De Lis
Breakout Session for Kings: Black Male Empowerment Panel:
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, Jr., 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 (Tennessee State University)
- Dr. Alex Ellis, Award-winning Author, Renowned Speaker, Distinguished Mentor, and Founder of Tied to Greatness
- Roderic L. Sprowl, M.Div., National Keynote Speaker & Founding Pastor, Thrive Church (Fort Worth, TX)
- Reginald Shareef, Technologist, Software engineer, Entrepreneur, Artist, Philanthropist, and former HBCU King (Tennessee State University)
Audience- (Kings only)
2:30pm - 4:15pm
Grand Ballroom
Breakout Session for Advisors:
Part One - Introductions & Speed-Share: Advising Edition
Part Two- Harvest the Highlights: Bringing It Back to Your Campus -Learning Outcomes
Dr. Dale Williams, Founder, Leadership for Queens/HBCU Kings & Queens Conference, and former HBCU Queen (Tennessee State University) & Ranzeno Frazier, Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs/ Royal Court Advisor at Livingstone College, and 2024 Advisor of the Year, HBCU Kings & Queens Conference
Audience-(Advisors only)
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 (Tennessee State University)
Saturday, July 26, 2025
7:45am
Meet in Hotel Lobby
Depart the Hotel for our Host School- Xavier University of Louisiana, 1 Drexel Drive, New Orleans, LA, 504-520-7490. (Transportation provided, departs from Canal St.) Conference Participants meet in the lobby.
8:30am - 9:30am
Convocation Center
Welcome/Breakfast
10:00am - 11:15am
Breakout Session One
All breakouts take place in the Norman C. Francis Annex Building (NCF)
10:00am - 11:15am
NCF 115
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
NCF 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!
Audience: Queens and preferably female Advisors
10:00am-11:15am
NCF 102
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
NCF 105
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
NCF 104
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
Reproductive Justice is not just a movement—it’s a mission, and you are key to carrying it forward. In this dynamic training, My Sister’s Keeper equips HBCU student leaders with the tools to champion reproductive justice through civic engagement, education, and cultural change. Learn how to identify advocacy opportunities, navigate the intersection of policy and personal experience, and mobilize your peers to take action. This is your space to grow as a purpose-driven advocate—on campus and far beyond.
Audience: Open to All-Kings, Queens, and Advisors
10:00am-11:15am
NCF 135
VI. Heavy is the Head
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. 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
NCF 160
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: Focus on Queens, open to Queens, Kings, and Advisors
10:00am-11:15am
NCF 173
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)
Oftentimes 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, participants 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
10:00am-11:15am
NCF 175
IX. GIRLTREK'S SELF-CARE AUDIT WORKSHOP
Tyreen Taylor, Director of Field & Content Operations
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
10:00am-11:15am
NCF 103
X. Workplace Survival Guide: Mastering the Soft Skills for Success
Latyya McIntyre, Business Execution Associate, Early Career Sourcing (North Carolina A&T State University Alumnus) & Usman Tijani, Senior Assistant Vice President, Early Career Sourcing (Delaware State University Alumnus)
Success in the workplace isn’t just about what you know – it’s about how you up. 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. Participants will engage in real-world scenarios and guided activities that build confidence and readiness for today’s dynamic work environments. Whether you’re preparing for your first internship or full-time role, this workshop will help you show up as your best professional self.
Audience: All -Kings, Queens, and Advisors
10:00am-11:15am
NCF 140
XI. 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
NCF 160
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
NCF 102
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
NCF 162
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
NCF 104
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
Join the Level The Court campus experience—a bold conversation at the intersection of reproductive health, stigma, and advocacy. As HBCU Kings and Queens, your voice holds influence, and this mini-session is designed to activate it. Together, we’ll explore how systemic barriers and harmful myths impact young Black women’s access to reproductive health care, including the historic launch of Opill—the first over-the-counter birth control pill in the U.S. With engaging discussion, expert insights, and space for real talk, you’ll leave empowered to use your platform to advocate for reproductive freedom on campus and in your community.
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
NCF 115
V. Check YourselF before you wreck the crown: balancing duty over ego in royal Leadership
Travis Fredrick, MBA, Assistant Director of Student Engagement and Leadership, Co-Royal Court Advisor, Bowie State University
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
NCF 175
VI. GirlTREK's SELF-CARE AUDIT WORKSHOP
Tyreen Taylor, Director of Field & Content Operations
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
NCF 105
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
NCF 135
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
11:30am-12:45pm
NCF 103
IX. Workplace Survival Guide: Mastering the Soft Skills for Success
Latyya McIntyre – Business Execution Associate, Early Career Sourcing, North Carolina A&T State University Alumnus, and Usman Tijani, Senior Assistant Vice President, Early Career Sourcing, Delaware State University HBCU Alumnus
Success in the workplace isn’t just about what you know – it’s about how you up. 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. Participants will engage in real-world scenarios and guided activities that build confidence and readiness for today’s dynamic work environments. Whether you’re preparing for your first internship or full-time role, this workshop will help you show up as your best professional self.
Audience: All -Kings, Queens, and Advisors
11:30am-12:45pm
NCF 173
X. Miss National Black College Alumni Hall Of Fame Informational
Nya Floyd, Miss NBCA Hall of Fame, 2024-25 (Fort Valley State University)
Claim your place in history at the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Competition, the first national stage ever created for HBCU queens. Represent your institution with pride, purpose, and undeniable presence.
This experience is bigger than a crown! It's your chance to get a seat at the table with board members, curate sponsorships, expand your network, and unlock doors for postgraduate success. Our dynamic session will show you how the Hall of Fame system empowers queens to lead, serve, and shine on every stage they touch.
This is your legacy in motion. Are you ready to reign?
Audience: Queens and Advisors
11:30am-12:45pm
NCF 140
XI. 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 Session Three
2:45pm - 4:00pm
NCF 102
I. MISTER AND MISS HBCU COMPETITION Informational
Dr. Jerome Offord, Jr., President & CEO
Step into the spotlight and get ready for your chance to be crowned the next Mister and Miss HBCU, joining the ranks of legendary HBCU Royalty! Represent your HBCU with unmatched pride, purpose, and excellence. Our 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. Whether you dream of wearing the crown or are eager to elevate your leadership on campus, this session will share how the Mister and Miss HBCU Leadership Conference and Competition will empower you to showcase the very best of your institution with spirit and sophistication.
Audience: All -Kings, Queens, and Advisors
2:45pm - 4:00pm
NCF 135
II. The BRAIN ON BURNOUT- Royal CHECK OUT! THE "UN" OF UNAWARENESS IN MENTAL ILLNESS
A.O. Croft, M.Ed. Former HBCU KING (Morgan State University & Former Royal Court 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
NCF 140
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
NCF 115
IV. Royalty in the twilight zone: maximizing your moment before the crown sets
Travis Fredrick, MBA, Assistant Director of New Student Experiences and Student Engagement, Bowie State University
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
NCF 173
V. Beyond the Crown: Discovering the Superpower Within
Reginald Shareef, Technologist, Software engineer, Entrepreneur, Artist, Philanthropist, and former HBCU King (Tennessee State University)
Superpowers are the fuel that ignites your mission in life and gives you the power to make a real difference. 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.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
1. Recognize the unique gifts and characteristics that make you special.
2. Explore how personal experiences shape your character and contribute to developing your strengths.
3. Learn how to leverage your strengths to achieve personal success and positively impact others.
4. Understand how to activate superpowers through conscientious effort, practice, and feedback.
Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors
.
2:45pm - 4:00pm
NCF 103
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
NCF 175
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
NCF 160
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
2:45pm - 4:00pm
NCF 104
IX. Making Social Media Work for You: Building a Positive and Purposeful Online Presence
Dr. Naadiya Hopkins, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Student Engagement and Student Leadership & Royal Court Advisor, Fayetteville State University
Social media is a powerful tool—when used intentionally. Learn how to craft a professional online presence that reflects your goals and values. This session will highlight best practices for personal branding, audience engagement, and how to use platforms to enhance—not hinder—your professional image.
- Audience: Open to All-Kings, Queens and Advisors
2:45pm-4:00pm
NCF 162
X. 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.
“Curated Crowns” will walk you through how to:
- Navigate the spotlight with grace
- Leverage your reign to build your brand
- Balance advocacy and authenticity
- Maximize your influence as a student leader and legacy builder
- Strategically prepare for life beyond your royal term
Through real-talk dialogue, mentorship moments, and a legacy mapping activity, this session equips you to transition from college royalty to real-world changemaker.
Session Objectives:
- Define Your Reign: Clarify your personal leadership values and how they align with your institution’s mission.
- Lead as an Ambassador: Learn how to speak on behalf of your college with professionalism, poise, and purpose.
- Maximize the Moment: Turn your visibility into viable platforms for advocacy, entrepreneurship, or graduate/professional opportunities.
- Build Your Royal Blueprint: Create a post-graduation roadmap using your experiences as a Queen to enhance resumes, interviews, and future leadership roles.
Audience: Queens and Advisors
2:45pm - 4:00pm
NCF 105
XI. Advisor Roundtable: BEST PRACTICES for an Effective Royal Court Program
Discussion Leaders:
- William T. Bynum, Associate Director, Student Activities & Leadership at Norfolk State University
- Ranzeno Frazier, Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs/ Royal Court Advisor at Livingstone College, and 2024 Advisor of the Year, HBCU Kings & Queens Conference
- Veronica C. Hairston, Assistant Director for Student Activities/SGA Advisor at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, and 2020 Advisor of the Year, HBCU Kings & Queens Conference
- Lyndsay Raymond, Executive Director of Student Success at Lincoln University of PA
- Anita Wynn, Director of Student Leadership and Civic Engagement, Virginia 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
4:15pm
Group Photo
4:30pm
Depart to hotel /Dinner on your own
8:00pm
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 - 11:15am
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.)
Doors open at 9:00 AM
We kindly ask all participants to arrive on time to avoid disrupting the ceremonial activities.
9:00 AM – 9:45 AM – Breakfast
9:45 AM – Ceremony Begins
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.