Fri, Aug 9 – 11:00 – 11:50 AM 10:40-11:30 AM

Celebrate and Support MEN WHO TEACH | Fri, Aug 9 – 10:40AM – WCP 3.114 Executive Conference | Xavier Loredo & Dr. Langston Clark | UT San Antonio

Pillars Addressed: College & Career Readiness

The Academy for Teacher Excellence Research Center (ATE) in the College ofEducation and Human Development (COEHD) at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) Minority Male Educator Mentoring Initiative of South Texas (MMEMIST) seeks to address the need to increase the population of male teachers of color who are prepared to work with diverse student populations. MMEMIST initiative seeks to address the need for culturally efficacious educators by diversifying the ethnic, linguistic, cultural, and gender make up of our schools’ teachers. In addition, this initiative will address the early recruitment of young men into the teaching profession, support them during their professional development, and provide a direct link to a career. MEMIST will fulfill its mission through the achievement of the following goals:

1) Increase the number of students seeking degrees in education by engaging male high school students of color in teacher and college preparation activities;

2) Identify, recruit, and support men of color to become culturally efficacious teachers prepared to work with diverse student populations; and

3) Retain men of color as they complete their certification requirements, obtain careers, and in their novice years in the classroom. Return to Top

Empowering Excellence: Conquering the Imposter Phenomenon Among Students of Color | Fri, Aug 9 – 10:40AM – WCP 1.402 Auditorium | Wesley Wells, St. Philip’s College & Kelli Emerson, Lee College

Pillars Addressed: Leadership, Health & Wellness, Identity

Join us for an engaging session focused on conquering the imposter phenomenon (IP) among students of color. Imposter syndrome, characterized by feelings of inadequacy and a persistent fear of being exposed as a “fraud,” can significantly impact academic, personal, and professional success. In this session, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the concept of impostor syndrome and its pervasive influence on students of color.

We will explore the various factors that may contribute to impostor syndrome in educational settings, on campus, and in the workplace, shedding light on systemic challenges and cultural dynamics that exacerbate feelings of self-doubt and insecurity. Through interactive discussions and real-life case studies, attendees will delve into effective strategies to address impostor syndrome and cultivate an environment of support and empowerment.

Key learning outcomes include:
1. Explanation of the concept of impostor syndrome and its implications for academic, personal, and professional success among students of color.
2. Exploration of the multifaceted factors contributing to impostor syndrome in educational and workplace environments.
3. Engagement in discussions about practical strategies and interventions to combat impostor syndrome and foster resilience and confidence.

Insights into creating inclusive and supportive environments that promote success and well-being for students of color.

Don’t miss this opportunity to empower students and educators alike in overcoming impostor syndrome and unleashing their full potential for excellence. Join us in this crucial conversation to pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future. Return to Top

Forging Leaders: Empowering Brotherhood | Fri, Aug 9 – 10:40AM – WCP 3.112B | Christopher Fairbank | Northeast Lakeview College

Pillars Addressed: Brotherhood, Leadership

This session is focused on empowering young men to become impactful leaders within their communities. This session will explore essential leadership qualities and the importance of cultivating strong bonds of brotherhood. The young men will gain practical skills in effective communication, self-discovery, and goal setting, all while emphasizing the significance of community engagement and inclusivity. Through interactive workshops and discussions, attendees will be equipped with tools to navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and take proactive steps towards personal and collective growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to forge new connections and develop the leadership skills needed to make a positive difference. Return to Top

Sailing Through The Career Ocean – The Compass for Career Exploration | Fri, Aug 9 – 10:40AM – WCP 3.116 | Shun-Hen “Henry” Tsai & Melissa Totah | Austin Community College

Pillars Addressed: College & Career Readiness

“I feel lost, or do not know what I want to do in my life”, “I have too many interests that I do not know which one to focus on for developing my career”, “How do I know which career is right for me?” Are these questions you have ever asked yourself?

On-boarding the career exploration journey is just like sailing through the vast ocean of opportunities. Sailors rely on the compass to help them navigate through the ocean, so is the career guidance compass can be requisite for those who need to make the informed decision about their career path.

In this workshop, participants will learn areas that are essential for career exploration. Some useful tools and resources will be introduced. Career Readiness Competencies will be emphasized so the participants can identify competencies they need to develop or improve. Return to Top

There is Hope in the Cope- A Guide to Stress Reduction in the Workplace and Life Space | Fri, Aug 9 – 10:40AM – WCP 2.120 | Louis Whatley | Licensed Professional Counselor
Pillars Addressed: Leadership, Health & Wellness

Stressful situations in our life and at work can cause sleep disturbances, loss of concentration, poor work performance, compromised immune systems and a host of other problems. Return to Top

Initiative in Action: Harnessing Leadership for College, Career, and Life Advancement | Fri, Aug 9 – 10:40AM – WCP 1.106 | Manuel Maldonado, San Antonio ISD & Nick Mercado, UT San Antonio

Pillars Addressed: Leadership, College & Career Readiness

Discover how proactive initiative, coupled with a hunger for opportunities and resilience in the face of adversity, can propel individuals towards unparalleled achievement in academics, career pursuits, and personal fulfillment.

Through engaging discussions and real-world examples, participants will explore the pivotal role of leadership in driving success across various life domains. From effective communication and collaborative problem-solving to visionary decision-making and ethical integrity, attendees will learn how developing leadership qualities can serve as a catalyst for personal and professional advancement.

Moreover, we’ll delve into the transformative power of initiative, exploring how seizing opportunities and embracing challenges can foster a winning mindset essential for success. Participants will gain practical strategies for navigating obstacles with confidence and determination, leveraging setbacks as stepping stones to growth and learning.

Whether you’re a student embarking on your academic journey, a professional seeking career advancement, or an individual striving for personal growth and fulfillment, this session offers invaluable insights and actionable strategies to unlock your leadership potential and thrive in every aspect of your life. Join us as we harness the power of initiative and leadership to create a future filled with limitless possibilities and meaningful achievement. Return to Top

Smart Screen Time: Shaping Identities in the Digital Age | Fri, Aug 9 – 10:40AM – WCP 3.106A | Dr. Benjamin Kramer & Devin Pineda | PBS Austin

Pillars Addressed: Health & Wellness

Are you a gamer? A TikToker? A binge-watcher? Come to this session, where you’ll learn how to fit the fun media in your life with the media that will help you advance in school. Hear from a Huston Tillotson University senior how he finds balance with screen time, studies, and other activities, and learn about digital resources that you can trust for your schoolwork or for knowledge about the world. Return to Top

National Perspective of College Men of Color Programming: Student and Staff Perspectives | Fri, Aug 9 – 10:40AM – WCP 2.410 Ballroom | Dr. Adrian Huerta, USC Dr. Edgar Lopez, USC & Dr. David Martinez, University of South Carolina

The aim of this session is to share survey responses from students and staff involved in men of color programs across the United States to elevate areas for growth and development to improve programmatic offerings. 1) Student level data provides a window to how students experience men of color programs and programs have led to feeling more connected to their institutions. 2) To share patterns from the perspective of staff members who coordinate and lead in the development of men of color programs, and also the challenges of sustainable efforts to empowerment of color to become successful in colleges and universities. Return to Top

Using Safe Conversation Dialogue to Promote Empathy in the Workplace | Fri, Aug 9 – 10:40AM – WCP 1.118 | Dr. Curtis Hill | Texas A&M University-Commerce

Safe Conversations dialogue is a skill that uses mirroring, validation, and empathy to promote connection in relationships. Participants will learn how to bridge the gap between communication and connection to foster healthy relationships in their personal and work lives. The Safe Conversation model was developed by Imago Therapy founders Drs. Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt which is based on over 40 years of research working with couples. The Safe Conversations methodology was taken from the clinic to the broader culture to help facilitate healthier relationships in all ecosystems. Return to Top

Fri, Aug 9 – 11:00 – 11:50 AM 10:40-11:30 AM

College Track Sessions (for 2-year & 4-year college students)

College-Bound Track Sessions (for middle & high school students)

Professionals