The Black Alumni Expo 2016
- Crystal Davis
- Aug 24, 2016
- 2 min read
The Black Alumni Networking Expo hit the nation’s capital for a 3rd consecutive year. Founded in 2014 in Washington, DC, this professional advancement-networking event seeks to foster an environment for Black professionals to engage with local companies, businesses, non-profits, and other organizations. Participating business are able to promote their objectives, expand their presence and broaden their network while attendees interact with local, state and national political figures and professionals.
On Thursday, August 11, 2016 the Black Alumni Networking Expo kicked off with a Connectivity Happy Hour hosted by the lovely Krystal Glass at Smith Commons. The night was filled with music and chatter. Attendees had an opportunity to converse and network amongst each other. This wasn’t your typical happy hour networking social, however. The BAN Expo goers were also able to meet two of the founders behind the brand; Carson Byrd and Jonathan King. The discussion included topics such as how the BANExpo Brand began, business dynamics, the importance of having a solid team and even the characteristics needed in a partner. Byrd and King allowed the audience to get a glimpse of who they are as individuals and how their differences aid in the success of their business.
The Building Longevity and Cultivating Knowledge (B.L.A.C.K.) Panel & Dinner took place on Friday, August 12, 2016 at the National Press Club. The guests were able to engage in various topics focused on Black culture including, politics, entertainment, business, finance and much more. Panel guest included Rob Hill Sr., author and relationship enthusiast; Candice Nicole, CEO of Candice Nicole PR; Tonya Rapley, CEO of My Fab Finance; Jasmine Crowne, CEO and Founder of Black Celebrity Giving; and Kenneth Ward, Executive of College Bound.
The finale of the weekend took place on Saturday, August 13th with the Black Alumni Networking Expo and the Black Alumni Ball. The Networking Expo was held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel and included 6 workshops, over 40 vendors, 1 speaker, over 700 black professionals and onsite recruiting. The Black Alumni Ball featured the sounds from Johnny Graham and The Groove, which is a live band, giving the attendees a special musical experience. The Alumni Ball was the perfect ending to a wonderful weekend. If you miss this experience, you will definitely want to mark your calendars for next year’s BANexpo weekend.
