Claflin Named ‘University of the Year’ during BEEP Conference

Claflin University was named “University of the Year” during the National Urban League’s 44^th annual Black Executive Exchange Program Leadership Conference, held June 5-8 in Orlando, Fla.

This year’s BEEP Conference was a key part of the National Urban League’s Jobs Rebuild America initiative. Sessions, workshops and speakers highlighted how accomplished business leaders embrace change, engage in planning and prepare for opportunities in the 21st century. Networking opportunities and leadership training for students was conducted by hiring professionals, executives of fortune 500 companies, nonprofit and government agencies.

Claflin students Erica Baker, Tyler Breland, Kamaria Downs, Maxx Jackson, Jacob C. Moore and Chelsi Pinkett were selected to attend this year’s conference. Baker and Breland were chosen for the National Urban League’s eight-week internship program in New York. In addition to obtaining professional experience in nonprofit management, the interns had the opportunity to visit the National Urban League Policy Institute in Washington, D.C., work on a special project with senior leaders of the National Urban League, and network with corporate partners in the tri-state area.

Two of the three $5,000 Dr. Jerry Bartow Scholarships awarded during the BEEP Conference were given to Claflin students Maxx Jackson and Chelsi Pinkett. They presented their essays to conference attendees and executives.

Claflin University’s Office of Career Development partners sponsor BEEP to recruit students for internships and full-time employment while also engaging in professional development via the BEEP Week program. The League of BEEP Associates' Cinderella and Prince Charming Project is highly regarded by students, faculty and staff, who donate suits, shoes and dresses for males and females to ensure students at local schools are prepared for professional events and prom.

Additionally, members of the organization support on-campus recruitment, actively participate in community service projects, and lead campus tours for recruiters that visit for on-campus recruiting and mentoring programs.

The mission of BEEP is to share learning and experience across generations, cultivate new leaders, and inspire achievements beyond the possible through committed involvement and operational excellence. BEEP’s intent is to be recognized as the preeminent nationwide network of professional black executives that acts as a catalyst for developing future leadership talent through outreach and strategic partnerships with historically black colleges and universities, students, corporations and government agencies.

For more information, visit http://beep.iamempowered.com/about-black-executive-exchange-program-beep.