The Crown Is Earned Through Leadership!
The Mister HBCU Leadership Conference and Competition, Inc. was founded on a bold vision: To develop the next generation of transformational leaders for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). That vision originated with Mrs. Benecia Spencer Williams, then Vice President for Advancement at Lincoln University of Missouri, whose leadership transformed an innovative idea into a growing national movement. Under her guidance, participation expanded rapidly as HBCUs embraced the program's unique commitment to leadership development, scholarship, and service.
Building on this strong foundation, Dr. Jerome Offord, Jr. assumed leadership of the organization in 2015, ushering in a new era of strategic growth and long-term sustainability. In 2016, the organization was formally incorporated as the Mister HBCU Kings' Leadership Conference and Competition, Inc., earning federal recognition as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Since becoming President and Chief Executive Officer in January 2016, Dr. Offord has guided the organization from a successful annual competition into a nationally recognized leadership development enterprise dedicated to preparing HBCU students to become influential ambassadors, ethical leaders, and community changemakers.
Responding to the evolving needs of HBCU students and the encouragement of university leaders, alumni, and supporters, the organization expanded its mission to include both Kings and Queens, becoming the Mister and Miss HBCU Leadership Conference and Competition, Inc. Today, the organization develops HBCU Royalty through an immersive leadership experience that equips students with the skills, confidence, and networks needed to lead throughout their lives and careers.
As the organization entered this exciting new chapter, leadership made a strategic decision to establish a permanent home that reflected its national vision and ensured long-term growth. Following an extensive planning process, Charlotte, North Carolina, was selected as the permanent host city. With its rich history, vibrant corporate community, accessibility, and deep commitment to higher education, Charlotte provides an ideal setting for convening the nation's most promising HBCU student leaders while fostering meaningful partnerships with corporations, foundations, and philanthropic investors committed to expanding educational opportunity and leadership excellence.
Registration
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Event Tickets
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