The Thurgood Marshall College Fund‘s (TMCF) second regional DevCon conference brought first- and second-year students together in Houston for several days of professional development, leadership training and career preparation.
The conference welcomed students from public and private historically Black colleges and universities and predominantly Black institutions, offering workshops, networking opportunities and sessions led by industry professionals designed to help participants prepare for future careers.
The event opened with remarks from TMCF founder Dr. N. Joyce Payne, who encouraged students to embrace the opportunity ahead of them.
“We’re so glad to have you here,” Payne said. “You are the best and the brightest. We know that you’re ready to take on the world.”
TMCF President and CEO Dr. Harry L. Williams reminded attendees that their invitation reflected the confidence corporate partners have in their potential.
“Our corporate partners see something in you,” Williams said. “They see the talent and the skills that you have, and they want you to be part of their companies and organizations.”
Houston City Council member Edward Pollard also welcomed participants, encouraging them to make the most of the opportunity to connect with fellow students and professionals.
Throughout the conference, students explored Gallup’s CliftonStrengths framework, participated in career readiness workshops and attended sessions focused on communication, workplace etiquette and professional development. Participants also had opportunities to connect with coaches and industry leaders as they prepared for careers after graduation.
“The energy these students brought to Houston is contagious,” Williams said. “It’s so important for our first- and second-year students to start building this foundation at DevCon.”
