Professional Sciences Center; Room 238

Sustaining an African-American male educational program on a college campus requires dedicated personnel, consistent funding, willing students, passion, and commitment. Hear from three USG AAMI program directors how they have established, expanded, and reshaped their respective programs.

Dr. David Smith Jr., Assistant Director African-American Student Services and Programs, Georgia State University

Jones Building; Room 102

Career success increasingly requires cultural and global awareness, skills that are often developed through international exchange and exposure. Hear from a top administrator and an MBA graduate how they have successfully navigated in the international arena—and why they strongly encourage students to pursue a study-abroad experience.

Dr. Gary McGaha, President, Atlanta Metropolitan College

Learning Support Auditorium

Led by one of the nation’s most passionate motivational speakers, this exciting session will examine the challenges that African-American males confront in their daily lives. Attendees also will learn proven strategies for personal development and success, and how to join the Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB) - a national organization with more than 160 collegiate and high school chapters across 30 states.

Professional Sciences Center; Room 238

Led by one of the nation’s most passionate motivational speakers, this exciting session will examine the challenges that African-American males confront in their daily lives. Attendees also will learn proven strategies for personal development and success, and how to join the Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB) - a national organization with more than 160 collegiate and high school chapters across 30 states.

Jones Building, Room 102

Over an eight-week period last year, Loren Harris took on the monumental task of surveying the national landscape of programs focused on improving the condition of American males. With generous support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, this former foundation program officer collected voluntarily submitted data from over 300 organizations throughout the United States. Mr. Harris has used the data he collected to compile a resourceful database and to author a compelling report regarding the challenges and achievements of male-focused organizations and their efforts, and the important work that remains. Learn where your AAMI project fits into this critical nation-wide agenda.

Learning Support Auditorium

Maturing into a successful man in today’s society oftentimes requires navigating some very rough waters. This accomplished and committed educator will share inside tips on how to achieve success, from bringing your “A” game (the right Attitude) to knowing how to “dress to impress,” to working effectively with those who can grant or deny you “major opportunities.” Come learn what they don’t tell you in school!

Professional Sciences Center; Room 212

Securing a professional position in today’s job market is becoming increasingly competitive. How do you ensure that your resume will stand out among the competition? Get a head start by learning the inside tips on how to secure leadership roles on campus, internships, and the value of attending graduate school from three experts who have done exactly that and will share their insight

Rickie Watters, AAMI Student, Brother 2 Brother, Georgia Highlands

Professional Sciences Center; Rooms 211 and 212

Educators at Georgia Highlands College have shaped an award-winning, best-practice AAMI program, which has a robust enrollment of highly engaged students. How did GHC’s officials quickly create a multi-campus, multi-faceted program that so strongly resonates with the young men they serve? Come hear the details from the program’s administrator, some of the young men who are active program participants, and one of their key civic partners. This is a session you won’t want to miss!

Dr. Jonathan Hershey, Georgia Highlands College, “GHAME”

Learning Support Auditorium

College athletes walk a tricky tight rope of balancing their athletic pursuits with their academic demands. It’s important for student athletes, whether they are on scholarship or footing their own bill, to keep their eyes on “the real prize”—earning their undergraduate degree. Learn what is important from two sides of this important issue. Hear from a successful college athlete who earned his degree from Stanford University while serving as captain of the basketball team, and now is in graduate school; and a “take-care-of-business” compliance officer who has to ensure that student athletes at Kennesaw State make appropriate academic progress—or stop playing!

S. Gordon Moore, Jr., Managing Partner and Director, Office of Minority Educational Development, Georgia Institute of Technology

Jones Building; Room 102

In today’s competitive business arena, it takes more than a college degree to secure a chance to climb the corporate ladder. Companies look increasingly for men and women who present the “total package.” Success in business is based on perception, performance, and professionalism. Business etiquette also is an important part of presenting a positive image to your boss, clients or customers. This interactive discussion will help participants sharpen the interpersonal skills that put you in control of business and social situations; learn how to improve your corporate image; enhance your professional relationships; and develop the necessary poise and confidence to achieve success.

C. Bernard McCrary, Program Director, Projecting Hope, Columbus State University