Mid-America Christian University (MACU) hosted its annual Black Youth Conference on Friday, February 14, bringing together over 120 metro high school students for a day of inspiration, mentorship, and cultural celebration.
The conference, designed to empower and engage young leaders, featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Pastor Roger Franklin from The Action Center; Coach Travis Burdine, Head Football Coach at Western Heights High School; and keynote speaker Ryan Blair-Smith. Each speaker shared invaluable insights on resilience, leadership, and community empowerment, sparking meaningful conversations among attendees.
“The Black Youth Conference is a day for our young leaders to connect with experienced mentors and trailblazers who share our commitment to excellence,” said Erica Alvarez-Stanton, Executive Director of Admissions and Community Engagement. “Our goal is to create an environment where every student feels valued, inspired, and equipped to pursue their dreams.”
In addition to engaging speaker sessions, students participated in interactive workshops, breakout discussions, and cultural activities that highlighted the rich heritage and contributions of the Black community. These hands-on experiences allowed students to network with professionals, explore academic and career opportunities, and develop lasting connections.
As part of MACU’s commitment to supporting students’ futures, all attendees were entered for a chance to win a MACU scholarship of up to $6,000.
The success of this year’s Black Youth Conference reflects MACU’s ongoing efforts to foster leadership, cultural appreciation, and educational growth among young people. Plans are already underway for next year’s event, with hopes of expanding its reach and impact even further.