by J’Nise Gifft
UVI student Karon Reynolds, a junior in the communications program, was one of the 470 students chosen out of 2,000 to attend the 20th Annual Thurgood Marshall Leadership Institute this fall.
The four day leadership development conference began on 17 Oct. 2020. College juniors, seniors, graduate and law students that attend Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) virtually gathered with one common desire, to expand their personal leadership and professional skills.
The conference included Fortune 500 companies that spoke to students through interviews, offered full time jobs, and learned to work in corporate. “This year we learned branding and financing amongst other things.” Karon explained that in a pool of thousands of students with a 3.0 GPA that applied, 470 scholars were selected to attend the conference this year.
One of the main highlights at the conference for Karon was the recruitment fair and the network reception. “The recruitment fair was virtually going to the different company booths seeking internship or full-time opportunities. At the network reception, students interacted personally with representatives from companies like Kellogg and Walmart. We showed off our talents and interests.”
“The conference was surprisingly more interactive than I thought.” Karon stated.
Due to COVID-19, this year’s conference was held virtually. Students usually travel to Washington, D.C. to attend the conference. 
With the utilization of the new, innovative software 6ix Connects, students were able to interact on an advanced level. This gave students a virtual, interactive experience.
The Thurgood Marshall College Fund Leadership Conference has helped students over the years create networks that lead to long term careers.
“To ensure student success by promoting educational excellence and preparing the next generation of workforce talent through leadership development.” -TMCF
