Welcome

In 1988, innovative collegians at Texas A&M University began a legacy now known as the Southwestern Black Student Leadership Conference (SBSLC). SBSLC was formed as a yearly forum where African-American students from across the country could assemble to engage in meaningful personal and professional development while addressing the problems and concerns that affected the Black community. Now in its 26th year of existence, SBSLC carries on that legacy and unites nearly 1,000 student participants, advisors, workshop presenters, nationally renowned speakers, and a variety of corporations and graduate institutions each January for four truly impactful days of conference activities.  

Media about the conference:

• http://vimeo.com/40593269
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wvg4TgixbHc

Charles E. Williams II Advanced Student Leadership Institute

The Charles E. Williams Advanced Leadership Institute (ALI) is a special forum specifically for seasoned student leaders who have demonstrated their abilities at their own colleges. ALI will push these students to take it to the next level. This limited enrollment program is held in conjunction with SBSLC, but provides a more in-depth workshop lineup and one-on-one attention.

Presenters & Workshops

A central focus of SBSLC is its workshops and presenters. Year after year SBSLC has put together a powerful lineup of passionate entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and well-known motivators. Past keynotes have included Tavis Smiley, Niam Akbar, Micheal Eric Dyson, Dominique Dawes, and Rodney McClendon. The 2013 workshop schedule will include topics like Media Representation, Personal Finances, Leadership Development, Graduate Level Study, and more.

Entertainment & Fun

SBSLC is as much about networking and building relationships with other student leaders as it is about professional and self-development. After the workshops and banquets are over, participants will find themselves exposed to a variety of entertainment and events on and around the Texas A&M University campus. Many events are co-hosted by SBSLC and other TAMU organizations. In year's past entertainment has included events like a casino and jazz night and even concerts.

Career & Vendor Fair

SBSLC facilitates a professional environment for students to engage in networking to assist in the development of career goals. By interacting with Career Fair recruiters and minority entrepreneurs at Vendor Fair, students have the opportunity to develop contacts, discover job/internship opportunities, and seek career advice. Vendor Fair seeks to promote unique, cultural products of small business owners and services of non-profit organizations to participants.