NBMBAA 47th Annual Conference Schedule
For 2025 All sessions are open to registered participants, with the exception of the NBMBAA Leadership Institute®, which requires a separate ticket purchase when registering.
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Registration Bring your ID to pick up your Conference badge. Please note: Badges are required for access to all Conference events. | GRBCC – Concourse |
| 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Graduate Case Competition | Room 303 |
| 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. | NBMBAA Leadership Institute® *Additional ticket required | GRBCC – Ballroom |
| 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Leadership Institute® Session | The Story Way: How to Impact, Influence, and Inspire More Through Your Lore Sponsored by McKesson Step into The Story Way: How to Impact, Influence, and Inspire More through your Lore — a hands-on masterclass where your message becomes unforgettable. In just two hours, you’ll build a bank of story seeds, craft a crisp 90-second story, and sharpen a 30-second why-first pitch you can use immediately. You’ll learn the 5S beat map (Situation, Struggle, Spark, Shift, So-what), climb the Why Ladder to human stakes, and supercharge delivery with EQ, surprise, and concrete detail. Expect live coaching, bold feedback, and immediate application that turn nerves into narrative power. No fluff. No jargon. Just simple, repeatable moves that make audiences feel, remember, and act. Walk in with curiosity, walk out with a one-page toolkit, a journaling plan, and a 30-day practice path. If you speak, sell, lead, teach, or simply want to be heard, this is your moment. Show up with a story; leave with a lasting impact. Speaker: Olu M. Burrell, MSOD, PCC | GRBCC – Ballroom |
| 12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. | Meet the Experts | From Entry-Level to Influential: Leadership Development Programs Empowering Early Career Professionals in Pharma Presented by AstraZeneca Interested in breaking into the pharmaceutical industry? Discover how AstraZeneca’s Commercial Leadership Development Program can open doors for those eager to launch or transition into the pharma industry. Join us for an insider’s look as a current Commercial Leadership Associate in oncology shares their personal journey, challenges, and successes in the program. Stay for an interactive panel discussion, where you’ll hear diverse perspectives from different employees on building a meaningful career with AstraZeneca. Speakers: Claudia Cortez, Joshua Chapman, Elizabeth Bush & Cheryl Chia | GRBCC – 320 |
| 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | NBMBAA Leadership Institute® | The Politics of Power: Leadership Lessons from the Inside Don’t miss the Leadership Institute Luncheon, a signature experience at the NBMBAA® Conference, featuring Ashley Etienne — a trailblazer who has advised presidents and shaped national conversations from behind the scenes. In this compelling address, Ashley unpacks what it takes to lead in high-stakes, high-visibility environments — and what power really means for Black professionals seeking to influence systems, represent communities, and drive lasting change. Expect real talk, relevant insights, and actionable leadership strategies from someone who’s been at the center of it all. Speakers: Ed Gordon & Ashley Etienne | GRBCC – Ballroom |
| 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | NBMBAA Career Success Network® Center On-site resume review and interview prep sessions. No appointment required. | GRBCC |
| 1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. | Meet the Experts: Capital One: Investing In Your Future: Building your Career Board of Directors A personal “Career Board of Directors” can help you guide your professional growth, navigate challenges and cheer you on in moments that matter. Join Capital One and Discover leaders for a discussion about Building Your “Career Board of Directors.” The panel will share how they’ve led their careers with the discipline of great companies, mirroring how Boards of Directors guide and advise them along the way. Speakers: Hayseworth Hylton, Cleo Belmonte, Markus Hearn, and Maia Davis-Singleton | GRBCC – 320 |
| 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. | Meet the Experts | Healthcare Means Business: Executive Insights on Business Careers in Healthcare Join Sutter Health executives for a dynamic conversation at the intersection of business and healthcare. Discover how strategic thinking, innovation, and inclusive leadership are shaping the future of this $4 trillion industry. Whether you’re a finance guru, marketing expert, tech innovator, or operations leader—there’s a place for you in healthcare. Learn how your MBA can make an impact where it matters most. | GRBCC – 320 |
| 2:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. | Leadership Institute: Unleashing Your Leadership Power: 5 Questions to Build Your Platform for Success: This session will introduce key tools from my forthcoming book, The Power Code: What 107 Successful Black Executives Wish They Knew Sooner About Power, Promotion, and Playing to Win. I’ll guide participants through five strategic questions I use with senior executives and Fortune 100 leaders to help them construct their Leadership Platform™ – a blueprint that clarifies who they are, why they lead, and how to protect their voice in rooms not built for them. Participants will walk away with a clearer sense of purpose, power, and the presence needed to lead without compromise. Speaker: Galen Bingham | GRBCC – 320 |
| 3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. | Meet the Experts | Empowered to Excel: Each One Teach One (Nationwide) Advice is only as impactful as the action it inspires. In 2025, Nationwide is committed to empowering customers with tools to elevate their personal brand, career strategies, and professional development. This session reflects that mission—offering practical insights and candid guidance from seasoned professionals to help attendees confidently navigate everything from job interviews to workplace dynamics. Participants will gain: * Authentic strategies for navigating evolving corporate environments * Nuanced perspectives on professional growth and self-awareness * Practical tools to enhance their career readiness and personal brand | GRBCC 320 |
| 4:00 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. | The Transformative Leader: Shaping Organizations for Sustainable Growth The Transformative Leader: Shaping Organizations for Sustainable Growth”: In a world of constant change, true leadership is defined not just by results—but by vision, resilience, and the ability to inspire lasting impact. Join a forward-thinking discussion with executives and changemakers as they share how they are reshaping organizational culture, driving strategic transformation, and building systems that endure. Whether you’re leading a team, a company, or an idea, this conversation will equip you with the mindset and tools to lead boldly—and sustainably. Speakers: Frank Holland and Marvin Ellison | GRBCC – Ballroom |
| 4:00 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. | Meet the Expert | Demystifying Pharma: From Molecule to Market This panel explores how intentional transformation is reshaping the pharmaceutical value chain—from R&D and manufacturing to marketing and enabling functions i.e. Finance. It highlights how leaders across marketing, Manufacturing/Supply Chain, and finance are evolving their methods and mindsets to drive equitable, efficient, and future-ready healthcare delivery. Speakers: Conrod Kelly, Rashid Beyah, Gloria Oddoye & Anthony Ferguson | GRBCC 320 |
| 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | NBMBAA® State of the Association and Membership Meeting Open to NBMBAA® Members This plenary session serves as a key moment for members to engage with leadership and gain insights into the current state and future direction of the association. Attendees will receive important updates on strategic initiatives, organizational achievements, financial health, and upcoming programs. Leadership will also address challenges, opportunities, and the association’s ongoing commitment to serving its members. This interactive session provides a platform for members to ask questions, share feedback, and actively participate in shaping the future of the organization. | GRBCC – Ballroom |
| 7:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. | Welcome Reception/Entry Moment: Start your NBMBAA Conference experience with an unforgettable evening of energy, connection, and celebration! The Welcome Party is your chance to mix, mingle, and network with fellow attendees, speakers, sponsors, and industry leaders in a vibrant, lively atmosphere. Enjoy music, refreshments, and engaging conversations as we set the tone for an inspiring week ahead. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or making new ones, this kickoff event is the perfect opportunity to build relationships and create lasting memories before diving into the full conference experience. Dress casual. Performances by Scarface, Paul Wall, Slim Thug, Lil’ Keke, Z-Ro, DJ Hi-C, Vibe Orchestra Band & Comedian Grossmann | GRBCC – Hall B |
Thursday, September 25, 2025
Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Registration Bring your ID to pick up your Conference badge. Please note: Badges are required for access to all Conference events. | GRBCC – Concourse |
| 8:45 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. | Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: The Career Expo officially opens with the NBMBAA® Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 9:00 AM on Thursday, September 25. Graduate Case Competition winners will be recognized as the president, board members, and distinguished guests welcome attendees and participate in photo opportunities. Participants: Orlando Ashford, Leslie Coleman, Lottie Holland & Marcus Franklin | GRBCC – Grand Lobby |
| 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | NBMBAA® Career Expo The NBMBAA Career Expo is the premier networking and recruitment event designed to connect top professionals, with leading companies and organizations. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with recruiters, explore career opportunities across various industries, and participate in on-the-spot interviews. | GRBCC- Halls C & D |
| 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Sponsor Activation: CSNC: The Career Success Network is your gateway to unlocking new professional opportunities at the NBMBAA® Conference. Designed to connect ambitious professionals with top companies, industry leaders, and career resources, this dynamic hub offers tools and strategies to help you take your career to the next level. Whether you’re seeking your next role, exploring new industries, or building connections to expand your professional network, the Career Success Network provides the guidance, insights, and access you need to achieve your goals. | Grand Concourse D |
| 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Future Forward: Navigating the Tech Driven Business Landscape: As technology continues to redefine the rules of business, the need for visionary leadership and inclusive innovation has never been greater. In this forward-looking panel discussion, Black tech and innovation leaders will explore how digital transformation is shaping the future—and how Black professionals can lead that evolution.Join Angle Bush, Kimberly Bryant, and Dr. Brandeis Marshall—three pioneers at the intersection of technology, equity, and impact—as they share insights on navigating rapid change, building digital resilience, and creating access in tech-driven industries. Moderated by James Francis, this dynamic conversation will offer real-world strategies, bold perspectives, and empowering advice for rising and established professionals alike. Speakers: Angle Bush, Kimberly Bryant, Dr. Brandies Marshall, James Francis, Charlotte Jones, and Dr. Tan Morales | GRBCC – Ballroom |
| 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. | Leadership Lessons from S&P Global Sponsored by S&P Global Join Mark Eramo, Co-President of S&P Global Commodities Insights, and Holly Washington, Chief Marketing Officer of Market of S&P Global Market Intelligence, for an engaging Fireside Chat designed to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders. In this open conversation, Holly and Mark will discuss their personal leadership journey, the importance of clear communication, and how teamwork drives success in today’s ever-changing global marketplace. | GRBCC – Concourse C, near windows |
| 12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. | Breakout Session: The Growth Audit: Identifying & Addressing Blind Spots Every leader and professional has areas of opportunity they may not see—blind spots that can hinder growth, impact performance, or stall advancement. This session will guide participants through a “growth audit,” helping them uncover hidden barriers, unexamined habits, and overlooked development areas. Attendees will leave with tools to gain greater self-awareness, invite meaningful feedback, and take actionable steps toward intentional personal and professional growth. Speaker: Ranieka Weston, Ramien Pierre | GRBCC – 320 |
| 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. | The Ultimate Power Play: Leveraging Your Brand for Reinvention: From the hardwood to high-level leadership, purpose-driven influence is reshaping what it means to succeed. In this dynamic panel, NBA greats Shareef Abdur-Rahim and JR Smith—each of whom has translated their athletic legacy into powerful business and philanthropic ventures—discuss how aligning passion with purpose fuels long-term impact. Moderated by media personality and former NBA star Jalen Rose, this conversation will explore the journey from athlete to executive, lessons learned through reinvention, and how purpose can be a strategic driver in business, community leadership, and beyond. Whether you’re building a brand, a career, or a legacy—this session will inspire you to lead with intention and vision. Speakers: Shareef Abdur-Rahim, T.J Ford, & Jalen Rose | GRBCC – Ballroom |
| 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. | AI Hacks & Hustle: Driving Impact and Opportunity in Your Career: The age of AI is not on the horizon; it’s here, fundamentally reshaping how we work, innovate, and grow. In this session, Googlers will demystify artificial intelligence and provide a practical playbook for leveraging AI tools like Gemini to excel in your current role and strategically position yourself for your next big opportunity. You will leave with actionable strategies to automate tasks, generate deeper insights, enhance your personal brand, and navigate the job market with an AI-powered edge. This isn’t about replacing your skills—it’s about amplifying them. Speakers: Nalani Ortiz, Bakary Diarrassouba | Room 310 |
| 1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Leading Through Transformation Sponsored by CapitalOne A candid conversation between executive leaders on how transformation is shaping the future of financial services, leadership, and organizational culture. Speakers: Bob McCarrick, Head of Commercial Corporate Banking (CapitalOne Financial), Michael Canady, VP Global Operations and Client Services Payment Network (Discover) | GRBCC – Concourse C, near windows |
| 1:15 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Unlocking Access: Tech as a Catalyst to Career Advancement This session will equip you with practical insights and actionable steps to harness the power of tech and break down barriers in your professional development. Speaker: Adrion Porter | Room 320 |
| 2:15 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Breakout Session: The Creator Economy: Turning Content into Currency Turning Content into Currency: Whether you’re an influencer, entrepreneur, or industry professional, understanding how to turn content into income is key to success in the digital age. In this session business leaders will share strategies, insights, and real-world success stories on how to transform content into a thriving business. Speaker: Latoya Moore, TikTok Shop, Cherilynn Williams, Marriott | GRBCC – 320 |
| 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Town Hall: The State of the Black Professional: The Impact of 2025 The national dialogue around equity is shifting—so where does that leave Black professionals? In this interactive town hall, we’ll unpack the current realities and future outlook for Black professionals amid widespread changes to DEI policies and corporate culture. Together with a cross-sector panel of leaders, we’ll explore how these shifts are reshaping the workplace experience, access to leadership, and the expectations placed on Black talent. Speakers: Orlando Ashford, Guylaine Saint, Janeen Uzzell, Pratt Willey, Marc Lamont Hill & Paula Fontana | GRBCC – Ballroom |
| 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Share/Meet UP: Young Professionals This interactive meet-up is a chance for young professionals to come together, exchange insights, and tackle the issues that matter most at this stage of the journey. | GRBCC – 361 A-F |
| 6:00 p.m. – Midnight | Corporate Hospitality Receptions The Corporate Hospitality Receptions at the NBMBAA Conference provide a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with top companies in a more intimate and relaxed setting. These exclusive events allow corporate partners to showcase their company culture, connect with high-caliber talent, and build meaningful relationships with attendees. | MM & HA |
Friday, September 26, 2025
Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | NBMBAA® Career Expo The NBMBAA Career Expo is the premier networking and recruitment event designed to connect top professionals, with leading companies and organizations. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with recruiters, explore career opportunities across various industries, and participate in on-the-spot interviews. | GRBCC- Halls C & D |
| 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Sponsor Activation: Coffee Bar | GRBCC- Concourse C |
| 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Sponsor Activation: CSNC The Career Success Network is your gateway to unlocking new professional opportunities at the NBMBAA® Conference. Designed to connect ambitious professionals with top companies, industry leaders, and career resources, this dynamic hub offers tools and strategies to help you take your career to the next level. Whether you’re seeking your next role, exploring new industries, or building connections to expand your professional network, the Career Success Network provides the guidance, insights, and access you need to achieve your goals. | GRBCC- Concourse C |
| 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Plenary – The Black Economic Renaissance: Leading the Next Era of Influence A new era is unfolding—one defined by rising economic power, cultural capital, and strategic influence within the Black community. This session explores the momentum behind today’s Black Economic Renaissance and the visionary leadership driving it forward. Fireside Chat with Michael “Killer Mike” Render and Frank Holland, CNBC | GRBCC – Ballroom |
| 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. | Build Credit, Build Freedom – Your Path to Financial Health and Opportunity Sponsored by TransUnion Your financial journey starts with the choices you make today. In this session, you’ll explore how building and maintaining strong credit can open doors to greater freedom, flexibility, and opportunity. Learn practical steps to take control of your financial future and understand how credit and career decisions play a vital role in shaping long-term success. You’ll also get a glimpse into how TransUnion is driving innovation and inclusion in the global economy and why it might be the right place to begin or grow your career. | GRBCC – Concourse |
| 12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. | Breakout Session: Wealth Moves: Insider Strategies for Smart Investing & Legacy Building Building wealth is more than earning—it’s about making strategic moves that grow assets, create opportunities, and leave a lasting legacy. In this session, financial experts and seasoned investors will share insider strategies for smart investing, wealth preservation, and long-term financial planning. Attendees will gain practical insights on portfolio diversification, real estate, private equity, and generational wealth transfer. Whether you’re just starting or scaling your wealth journey, this session will equip you with the tools to make powerful, informed wealth moves. Speaker: Terrence Short | GRBCC – 320 |
| 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Share: The Power of Partnerships: Effective Corporate and Community Collaborations presented by JPMC The Power of Partnerships: Effective Corporate and Community Collaboration, co-led with Attorney Phillip Yates, CEO Yates Law Firm, founder of Equiliberty and Equiliberty Community Impact Foundation. In this session, Cheri and Phillip Yates will focus on building wealth through education and entrepreneurship – Cheri & Phillip will also discuss how his entrepreneurial journey led him to start Equiliberty and LEW/BEW and his successful partnership with Chase. Speakers: Phillip Yates and Cheri Green | GRBCC 390A-F |
| 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Find Your Hidden Paycheck: Turning Benefits into Real Dollars Uncover the “hidden paycheck” embedded in employer-sponsored benefits. From wellness incentives and financial education to retirement matching and travel discounts, this session explores how benefits can translate into real dollars. Whether it’s a $75 wellness check or thousands in missed employer contributions, the message is clear—don’t leave money on the table. This session is more than a financial literacy talk—it’s a call to action for economic empowerment, especially for professionals navigating early career decisions and long-term wealth building. Speakers: Adwowa Afenyi-Annan, Fola Adebanjo, and Siatta Ollison | GRBCC 360 |
| 1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. | Building Empires: From Side Hustle to Generational Wealth It’s time to Transform your hustle into a lasting legacy! This empowering session at the NBMBAA Conference will provide the blueprint for turning passion projects and side businesses into thriving, wealth-building enterprises. Industry experts, successful entrepreneurs, and financial strategists will share key insights on scaling businesses, securing funding, and creating sustainable revenue streams that can be passed down for generations. Speaker: Jay Bailey | Room 320 |
| 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | From Corner Office to Capital: The Journey of a Private Equity Titan Join us for an exclusive and inspiring conversation with two transformative business leaders—Don Thompson, former CEO of McDonald’s and Founder/CEO of Cleveland Avenue, and Orlando Ashford, Interim CEO, NBMBAA and accomplished executive and strategic advisor. In this dynamic session, Thompson and Ashford will share their powerful journeys from the C-suite to the world of private equity, offering insights into leadership at the highest levels, building legacy through investment, and navigating the evolving landscape of business ownership and capital. Explore how corporate experience translates into strategic investment and economic empowerment Learn how these leaders are using capital to drive innovation, create impact, and open doors for othersGain real-world lessons on leadership, ownership, and the mindset required to lead in both boardrooms and deal rooms. This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from two Black business titans who are redefining success and creating pathways for the next generation of leaders. Speakers: Don Thompson and Orlando Ashford | GRBCC – Ballroom |
| 1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Empowering Confidence in Your Early Career Sponsored by Chevron Join influential speaker, Enobong Houston, HSE Agile Program Manager, and step into transformation with a powerful conversation led by this dynamic Chevron leader. This fireside chat confronts the often-unspoken challenge of imposter syndrome–especially among high-achieving Black professionals navigating the early stages of their careers. Through candid insights and practical strategies, this session will help you recognize your worth, own your achievements, and shift from self-doubt to self-assurance. You’ll leave with tools to silence your inner critic, amplify your voice, and transform how you show up in corporate spaces–with confidence, clarity, and purpose. | GRBCC Concourse |
| 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Real Talk with Chase Home Lending: Join the Conversation on Homeownership and Building Generational Wealth Join us for an engaging conversation with Chase Home Lending’s senior sales leaders. This session will provide a platform to hear from and engage with our senior sales leaders about the homebuying process, including information about our products, programs, and services. We’ll debunk common myths and offer practical tips to guide you on your journey to homeownership and building generational wealth. Presented by JPMC Speaker: Jeremy Luke | |
| 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. | From Challenge to Change: Transforming Setbacks into Success Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes, our well-laid plans don’t pan out as expected. In this empowering and insightful session, we will explore the art of turning obstacles into opportunities. Whether you’ve faced a career setback or a personal challenge, this session will equip you with valuable strategies and a positive mindset to navigate adversity and emerge stronger than ever. Speaker: Andre Thornton, Dwayne Smith, Bimbo; Tiffany Ormon, Wells Fargo | Room 320 |
| 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Northwestern Mutual Share Session: Wealth, Legacy, and Beyond: Advanced Financial Strategies for Professionals As a top executive or successful professional, you’re likely to face complex decisions that can impact your wealth and legacy. There’s no better time than now to identify financial blind spots and maximize your financial future. Be one step ahead and prepared for whatever direction your life and your career may take you. Learn about key strategies for maximizing your financial potential and planning for the future with Northwestern Mutual. Speakers: Sidnee Michelle, Larry Balthazar, Kervin Simmons | GRBCC 361A-F |
| 8:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. | MBA Live After Dark Join the National Black MBA Association for an unforgettable evening for MBA Live-After Dark. This exclusive event is happening on Friday, September 26th, at the stylish Chapman & Kirby Bar + Kitchen in Houston, located at 2118 Lamar Street, Houston, TX 77003.Get ready to dance the night away with sounds by two of the hottest DJs: Houston’s own J-Que and Miami’s Efeezy. The party starts at 8 PM and goes all the way until 2 AM. General admission tickets are $15 and must be purchased in advance. Tickets purchased at the door are $20. Please note that this event is expected to sell out quickly, so we strongly encourage you to secure your tickets today to guarantee your entry. Get tickets here – https://www.tickettailor.com/events/nbmbaa/1833670 | Chapman & Kirby |
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | Houston Day Party | venue – TBD |
Interested in Attending?
Stay Tuned for Updates Regarding Conference Registration!