PVAMU hosts national Honors Programs conference, inspiring student excellence, innovation

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Nov. 18, 2024) - Prairie View A&M University proudly hosted the 33rd Annual Conference for the National Association of African American Honors Programs (NAAAHP) earlier this month, drawing student scholars, faculty and professionals from Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the country. The conference theme, "Elevating the State of Honors Education: Academic Excellence, Culture, and Innovation," fostered an empowering environment for student growth, cultural engagement and academic achievement.

Dr. Quincy C. Moore III, NAAAHP President and Director of PVAMU's Honors Program, opened the event by encouraging attendees to see themselves as "academic revolutionaries," inspired to lead with purpose, creativity and resilience. His words set a transformative tone, urging students to pursue knowledge and embrace their roles in shaping society.

Conference Highlights

• Welcome Ceremony and Networking: The conference opened with a warm welcome featuring PVAMU's renowned Marching Storm band. Attendees also enjoyed music, line dancing, and the student-led "Honors Got Talent" showcase, which encouraged connection and community among scholars.
• Keynotes and Workshops with Industry Leaders: NBA Foundation's Head of Operations, Lauren Sills, and PVAMU alumnus Jarren Small '12, an educational entrepreneur, led an inspiring fireside chat on leadership and professional development. Other breakout sessions included workshops covering topics such as research, faculty engagement and cultural perspectives in academia, providing students with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
• Research Presentations (Poster and Oral): Students showcased their academic work through poster and oral presentations, highlighting innovative research across diverse disciplines. This conference allowed the students to receive feedback, exchange ideas, and celebrate their contributions to academic discourse.
• Student Competitions and Leadership Activities: Quiz Bowls, debate rounds, and a Model African Union simulation engaged students in a spirited competition, fostering both critical thinking and collaboration.
• Career and Graduate School Connections: A Graduate School & Career Fair allowed students to meet representatives from top institutions and companies, including MIT, Harvard and Princeton. The event emphasized professional development and post-graduate opportunities, aligning with NAAAHP's mission to prepare students for bright futures.
• Closing Recognition Ceremony: The conference wrapped up with a ceremony recognizing exceptional research, debate and leadership achievements. These acknowledgments underscored NAAAHP's dedication to encouraging academic rigor and personal growth.

A Legacy of Academic Excellence

Since its founding in 1990, NAAAHP has advanced the academic achievements of students at HBCUs and Predominantly Black Colleges and Universities. This year's conference at PVAMU exemplified NAAAHP's legacy of inspiring future leaders, innovators and changemakers to make a lasting impact.

"In this room are leaders who will shape not only our today but our tomorrow," Dr. Moore said.

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