(TAMPA, Fla., 1/26/23) – African American and Latino males remain historically underrepresented throughout higher education, and their persistence and retention rates are significantly lower than other student populations. To address the disparities, Hillsborough Community College (HCC) founded the Black, Brown and College Bound Summit (BBCB) 16 years ago. Today, BBCB has established itself as the preeminent forum addressing the unique barriers that impede the success of this student population, bringing together national leaders and scholars in economics, business, education and social culture.
Hosted by the HCC Office of Equity, Diversity and Special Projects, the 16th Annual BBCB Summit will be held on March 1 – 4, 2023, at the Tampa Convention Center. This year’s presenting sponsor is Wells Fargo.
Jay Ellis will keynote this year’s Dr. Sylvia Marion Carley Luncheon on March 4. Ellis is an LA-based actor, writer, director and producer known for his role in HBO’s critically acclaimed, Golden Globe-nominated series “Insecure” and the hit movie “Top Gun: Maverick.”
Additional speakers include Stedman Graham, author and businessman, Dr. Luis Ponjuan, Texas A&M University associate professor and Dr. Luke Wood, Chief Diversity Officer at San Diego State University.
“Over the years, BBCB has been a safe space for young men of color to come together and discuss the unique issues they face in this country and in their community,” said Dr. Ken Atwater, president of HCC. “This space allows them to network and connect with others who have surpassed the obstacles and become successful. The path to that success beginning with completing a college degree.”
An estimated 400 students from almost two dozen different states will participate in the 16th Annual BBCB Summit, which has seen more than 5,000 participants since 2006. For a full lineup of speakers and events, visit hccfl.edu/bbcb. For credentials, please email bbcbmedia@hccfl.edu.
Hillsborough Community College serves more than 42,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. For more information, visit hccfl.edu.
HCC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Visit hccfl.edu/accreditation for more information.